Legend has it that in Valtellina, as far back as the late 17th century, the vineyards were guarded by guardians all year round to prevent any ill-intentioned parties from damaging them by stealing the valuable ripening grapes. The word 'Tense' really means protected and was chosen by Nino Negri to name one of his most pleasant Valtellina Superiore appellation wines. In this case, the grapes come exclusively from the Sassella area, rich in stones and ancient rocks. The grapes, as per the regulations, are 100% Chiavennasca. It is harvested only when perfectly ripe and vinified in steel to preserve all the best aromas. This is followed by at least two years of maturation, at least one of which in wood. In the glass it has a beautiful bright ruby colour. The bouquet is complex, with notes of raspberry and with hints of rose and violet, sweet spices and a slight aroma of orange peel and candied fruit. In the mouth it reveals a nice full body and ripe tannins in fine evidence. With great volume, it expresses a pleasant background of red fruit and sweet spices with a persistent finish. On the table it goes well with roast red meats, lamb, kid, game and mature cheeses.