What is Franciacorta?
Q: What is Franciacorta?
A: A world-class sparkling wine region in Lombardy, Northern Italy.
Franciacorta is the only real alternative sparkling wine region to Champagne. Their sparkling wine is world-class. I’m a huge fan and visit as often as I can.
It’s a tiny area (map) of immense natural beauty, nestled between Bergamo and Brescia in Lombardy and bordering Lago Iseo. Their Fizz production is based on the Champagne model but has only been made here since 1961. It achieved the prestigious DOCG status in 1995.
Production has expanded, but only 15 million bottles are made each year. There is a range of styles. Besides Brut NV, you’ll find Rosé, Vintage, and Riserva. They also make a unique and lovely crémant style called Satén. Translated as satin, it perfectly describes the texture of the wine.
Only Chardonnay, Pinot Nero, and Pinot Bianco grapes are allowed*. Fizz production uses the traditional method (Metodo Classico), which is similar to Champagne. In fact, the Franciacorta production rules are stricter than those in Champagne. Quality is extraordinarily high.
The Consorzio per la Tutela del Franciacorta, founded in 1990, monitors Franciacorta vineyards and production and guarantees the brand. Nearly all the wineries are members, some 109 at the last count.
I was fortunate to be a guest of the Consorzio on a recent visit.
As production increases, so does the amount of Franciacorta exported to the UK. If you haven’t yet drunk Franciacorta, then find a good independent wine shop and be amazed. If you need a stockist, just ask me.
Here are ten of my personal favourites covering the main styles.
Ten recommendations
Ferghettina Pas Dosé 33
Majolini Electo Brut 2005
Contadi Castaldi Soul Satèn 2008
Bellavista Vittorio Moretti 2008
Biondelli Brut 2011
Villa Crespia Francesco Iacono 2005
Ca’ del Vent Blanc de Blancs Sospiri 2008
Mosnel EBB Blanc de Blancs 2007
Cantina Villa Cuvette 2007
Ca’ del Bosco Annamaria Clementi 2006
Have you tried Franciacorta yet? What do you think?
*The rare white grape Erbamat will shortly join the list of allowable grape varieties, up to 10%. This change is a response by the DOCG to climate change. Erbamat is a high-acid grape that will be able to preserve freshness.
Finally, there are also super red and white DOC still wines called Curtefranca to be discovered. Franciacorta does hit the spot for me!
Thank you to the Consorzio for their hospitality and for allowing use of their graphic