Franciacorta

Franciacorta is Italy 's most prestigious sparkling wine region and the absolute equivalent of Champagne outside of France. The wines are made using the traditional method, with secondary fermentation in the bottle, long aging on the lees, and an internationally recognized refinement. Franciacorta combines the freshness of Lombardy with luxurious mousse, complexity, and elegance. It is the top choice for lovers of high-quality, deep bubbles.

What is Franciacorta?

Franciacorta is a sparkling wine from Lombardy produced using the metodo classico , the same method as Champagne. The grapes used are Chardonnay , Pinot Nero , and in some wines, a small amount of Pinot Bianco . Franciacorta is known for its refined mousse, brioche notes, citrus aromas, and long finish. There are various styles, ranging from Non-Vintage to Satèn, Rosé, and Millesimato.

Origin and vineyards

Franciacorta lies east of Milan, around Lake Iseo. The area benefits from a unique microclimate that is particularly suitable for sparkling wines.

Key terroir characteristics:

• Lake and mountain microclimate – cool nights and gentle breezes for slow ripening.
• Morainic soils – mixture of limestone, clay, sand and gravel, similar to Champagne.
• Sunny slope vineyards produce ripe yet fresh Chardonnay and Pinot Nero.
• Strict regional regulations – low yields and mandatory bottle aging.

The DOCG Franciacorta is considered the highest quality classification for Italian sparkling wine.

Styles and vinification

Franciacorta is made exclusively using the traditional method (second fermentation in the bottle). The aging times are impressive for a sparkling wine:

• Franciacorta NV – minimum 18 months in the bottle
• Satèn – elegant, soft style; lower pressure in the bottle
• Rosé – minimum 35% Pinot Nero
• Millesimato (vintage) – minimum 30 months of aging
• Riserva – minimum 60 months of maturation

Flavor profile

• Citrus, green apple, white flowers
• Brioche, toast, almond and subtle autolysis
• Very fine mousse
• Long, elegant finish
• Always dry (different dosages available)

Grapes

• Chardonnay – elegant, fresh, mineral
• Pinot Nero – structure, power, depth
• Pinot Bianco – creaminess (max. 50%)

Storage and serving

Franciacorta is one of the best-aging sparkling wines from Italy.

• NV: 3–5 years
• Millesimato: 5–10 years
• Riserva: 10–15 years

Serve at 6–8 degrees Celsius in elegant flutes (preferably not, use a regular wine glass instead. It will give you more aroma) or slim sparkling wine glasses.

Buy Franciacorta at Perfectewijn.nl

At Perfecte Wijn, you'll find Franciacorta in a variety of styles, from elegant Satèn to complex Millesimato. These wines offer a luxurious alternative to Champagne, with Italian finesse, gastronomic depth, and a refined, soft mousse.