Angelo Sega
San Giacomo di Teglio, Valtellina, Lombardy, Italy
In the north of Lombardia lies Valtellina. Leonardo da Vinci described this valley as a “valley surrounded by tall and fearsome mountains” in which “heady and strong” wines are produced. This region has been growing Nebbiolo, known best from Barolos and Barbarescos from Piemonte, since medieval times under the name Chiavennasca. Valtellina’s Chiavennasca is known as leaner and more delicate than its counterparts from Piemonte. Chiavennasca’s most delicate and elegant expression is said to be found in Valgella, in the eastern sub-region of the valley. It is here, in San Giacomo di Teglio, on the steep terraced slopes, that Angelo Sega and his sons Luca and Matteo make wine under the label of Barbacàn. The family is nicknamed Barbacàn, after the local name for the buttresses present in the terraces. Their seven hectares of vineyards are located between 300 and 800 metres of altitude. The soil consists of sandy and loamy granites, rich in silica which perfectly absorbs the daytime heat. The conditions make it impossible to work the land with any machinery. Thus the family does everything by hand, just like their ancestors. Tradition and cultural identity are deeply rooted in the practices of Angelo and his sons. They work hard to keep local and often forgotten grape varieties as well as local agricultural tradition and practices alive. This all results in wines that uniquely reflect the terroir and each vintage with elegance and finesse.
In the cellar, Antonio, Luca and Matteo guide the wines, without imposing themselves on or intervening in the process too much. The fermentation is spontaneous, with native yeasts, and takes place in open vats of steel and concrete without any temperature control. The ripening is done in big wooden barrels. Before bottling the wines are not filtered and only sulphured minimally. The bottles emphasise the deep connection between the wines and their historic identity as the labels are inspired by neolithic drawings found in caves on the cliffs of Teglio. Very pure, living and bright wines. Firm and mineral in a reflection of the granite soil and the cool mountain wind. The burning passion of the winemakers together with the energy from ancient roots shine through.
In short, really special wines from the Italian Alps with great aging potential. A showcase of local identity and tradition.
Featured products
