The Caven winery, established in 1982 by brothers Stefano and Simone Nera, is steeply rooted in the remarkable alpine valley terroir of Valtellina, in Lombardy, Northern Italy.

 The estate takes its name from the ancient Camunian population that once inhabited the area, with archaeological finds still present nearby. Since its inception, Caven has grown into one of the largest vineyard holders in Valtellina, managing approximately 30 hectares across key subzones including Inferno, Sassella, Grumello, and Valgella. The winery uniquely balances traditional methods with modern winemaking, focusing on premium Nebbiolo (locally Chiavennasca) wines that reflect the dramatic slopes and mineral-rich, stony soils of the region. This terroir, combined with the winery’s commitment to craftsmanship, yields wines that are vibrant, fresh, and age-worthy, showcasing the character and complexity of alpine Nebbiolo.

The 2015 Caven Al Carmine "Inferno" Riserva exemplifies the winery’s dedication to producing powerful yet elegant wines that are true to their terroir. The Inferno subzone, renowned for some of the steepest vineyard slopes in the region (up to 75%), imparts intensity and concentration to the wine. This Riserva undergoes at least 36 months of aging, with 12 months spent in oak barrels to soften tannins and build complexity. The wine offers a layered bouquet of floral notes and ripe red fruit complemented by earthy minerality and firm, polished tannins—an expression of the unique mountain climate that preserves acidity and vitality despite the richness. The combination of high altitude, sun exposure, and cool breezes from nearby Lake Como creates a microclimate that also distinguishes Caven wines from their Piedmontese Nebbiolo counterparts.

Why you'll love it:

• Intense yet elegant alpine Nebbiolo with expressive dark fruit, floral aromatics, and mineral nuances.

• A beautifully structured Riserva with polished tannins and a fresh, balanced acidity ideal for aging or immediate enjoyment.

• Grown on heroic steep terraces in the famed Inferno subzone, offering a rare, terroir-driven wine experience from Northern Italy.

How to serve it:

• Decant for 1 hour before serving to allow the wine to fully open and reveal its layered complexity.

• Serve at a temperature of 60-65°F to highlight its vibrant acidity and nuanced flavors.

• Pair with hearty dishes such as braised red meats, aged cheeses, or mushroom risotto to complement its tannic structure and earthy character.