What a terrific word. In the local dialect, mazèr translates into "good, beautiful and generous." The Nino Negri 2016 Valtellina Superiore Mazèr does indeed live up to its name, with good intensity, beautiful dark fruit aromas and generous persistence. Some of the Nebbiolo grapes used in the blend undergo a brief appassimento, but just enough to add an extra pinch of dark fruit. In a sense, the Mazèr is among the most immediate, accessible and soft of these Nebbiolo-based wines from Nino Negri and ready for an informal apres-ski ragù with friends. Production is 35,000 bottles.

The 2007 Valtellina Superiore Inferno is a light-bodied, sleek red laced with sweet cherries, spices, dried flowers and tobacco. It shows just enough inner perfume and Pinot-like sweetness to add a measure of depth and dimension. The Inferno is best enjoyed sooner rather than later, while the fruit remains vibrant. Anticipated maturity: 2011-2014. Importer: Frederick Wildman and Sons Ltd, New York, NY; tel. (212) 355-0700

The 2006 Valtellina Superiore Mazer Inferno is a soft, mid weight wine with pretty scents of dried cherries, spices and flowers. This medium-bodied red offers good balance in an understated style. The Mazer is aged mostly in steel, although a small percentage of the wine is aged in neutral oak. Anticipated maturity: 2009-2011. Importer: Frederick Wildman and Sons Ltd, New York, NY; tel. (212) 355-0700