Franciacorta DOCG

In this region of Lombardy, the setting is far from being a mere detail. It shapes the wine. This prestigious terroir has the unique characteristic of being perfectly reflected in the sparkling wines of Franciacorta. Between the River Oglio and the shores of Lake Iseo, the last ice age left an exceptional geological legacy: morainic soils rich in sand, silt and minerals. During the day, the morainic stones capture heat and release it during the night, providing a wide temperature range for the vines. The high gravel content of these glacial soils facilitates water drainage, thus preventing excess moisture. To preserve the quality of this exceptional terroir, more than 60% of Franciacorta's vineyards are certified organic or in the process of conversion. This geological base, combined with a warm climate, tempered by Lake Iseo, is the source of these high-quality sparkling wines with fresh, lively bubbles and a refined taste.

The Franciacorta appellation allows different grape varieties to be used in the production of this Italian sparkling wine. Chardonnay, which accounts for around 80% of the vineyard's grape varieties, thrives in the Franciacorta terroirs. Pinot Noir, which accounts for around 15% of the territory, is responsible for the structure and longevity of Franciacorta Millesimati and Franciacorta Riserva. Planted on around 5% of the vineyard, Pinot Bianco is used up to a maximum of 50%. This grape variety produces elegant, full-bodied wines with good acidity and remarkable persistence. Since 2017, the use of the Erbamat grape variety (an indigenous variety) has also been authorised at 10%.

Franciacorta offers a unique sensory experience, the result of blending these three main grape varieties. To the eye, Franciacorta bianco seduces with its bright, luminous colour tinged with slight green hues. Combining freshness and depth, the aromatic palette reveals notes of wild berries combined with nuances of dried fruit, citrus and brioche. The bouquet is also marked by a slight hint of green apple, bringing a subtly bitter touch to the finish. Liveliness and fruit flavours are evident on the palate.

There is not just one type of Franciacorta, but several styles. In addition to the bianco version, this sparkling wine also comes in a rosé version, distinguished by its structured and vigorous profile. Franciacorta Satèn, a Franciacorta Blanc de Blancs made mainly from Chardonnay grapes, is characterised by its low bottle pressure. This production method gives it a silky mousse and a soft, velvety texture! Franciacorta Millesimati and Franciacorta Riserva are more premium versions of Franciacorta, distinguished by their long ageing periods of 30 months and 60 months respectively. Basic Franciacorta wines are aged for at least 18 months on slats, while rosés and Satèn wines are aged for 24 months.

This great sparkling wine deserves to be served in a manner befitting its status. Serve it at a cool temperature, around 6°C for a Franciacorta Bianco and around 8°C for a Franciacorta Rosé, to preserve its aromatic brilliance. Choose a flute with a tall, narrow shape to allow the aromas to be released gradually.

Let's not compare the incomparable! Some people mistakenly call it that, something that Champagne appellation professionals cannot tolerate. Even though Franciacorta shares the same production technique as champagne, the famous ‘traditional method’ with secondary fermentation in the bottle, it cannot be called ‘champagne’. No other sparkling wine can be named as such if it does not comply with the AOC specifications, particularly the production area: Champagne.

Franciacorta is simply a wonderful alternative to sparkling Champagne. It does not copy, but offers a sparkling interpretation of another terroir, sometimes sunnier, often rounder, and truly seductive at the table. A great Italian sparkling wine that deserves its place at the table!

If you enjoy sparkling wine, learning to differentiate between Franciacorta, Prosecco and champagne changes everything:

• Prosecco: Produced using the ‘Charmat method’, with fermentation in closed tanks, and made from the Glera grape variety, Prosecco is all about fruitiness and accessibility. Coming from different Italian regions, this sparkling wine seduces with its freshness and lightness. It is one of the most affordable sparkling wines in terms of taste and price.
• Champagne: Produced using the ‘traditional method’, this world-famous sparkling wine is made exclusively in the Champagne region from three main grape varieties: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Its chalky soils and cool climate give it its characteristic freshness and minerality. Ideal for lovers of finesse and mineral complexity, these bubbles are synonymous with special occasions and festive moments.
• Franciacorta: This sparkling wine from Lombardy is made from a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Nero and Pinot Bianco grapes. Compared to champagne, its vines thrive in a warmer, sunnier climate and mineral-rich soils. The Franciacorta DOCG produces aromatic, rich, creamy wines with moderate acidity. Compared to Prosecco, these sparkling wines have a more complex structure, balanced acidity and good persistence. An excellent choice to accompany your special occasions with a higher-end Italian sparkling wine!

To discover Franciacorta DOCG, certain historic houses are a must. These include Marchese Antinori, Bellavista, Berlucchi, Monte Rossa and Contadi Castaldi.

At Vinatis, discover a fine selection of Franciacorta wine produced by renowned producers. These wines have been tasted and approved by our tasting committee experts to offer you the best of the appellation. Do you have a specific budget? Are you looking for sparkling wines for an aperitif or to accompany a meal? Are you planning to serve it with fish, foie gras or a chocolate dessert? Filter the selection by price, estate, taste or even food and wine pairings. You can also use the comprehensive product descriptions detailing tasting notes, serving and storage advice, as well as customer reviews to guide you. The awards and ratings given by leading wine critics will also help you find some sure-fire winners.

Between the constraints imposed by the DOCG specifications and the minimum ageing periods, Franciacorta is naturally positioned as a premium wine. Classic vintages are often available from £25 to £30. More prestigious vintages can reach prices of £70 to £100, or even more. With bulk purchases, regular promotions and sales events such as wine fairs, you can benefit from significant discounts.