7 Things to know about Franciacorta Wine: Don't Call it Prosecco!

1.Why is it Called Franciacorta?

In the Middle Ages, the “corti franche” were small, self-governed agricultural communities in the region now known as Franciacorta, nestled among the hills south of Lake Iseo in Lombardy. These communities, led by Cluniac monks and other religious orders, were exempt from taxes as a reward for their land reclamation efforts and agricultural activities, including viticulture.

2.The History of Franciacorta Wine

Wine production in Franciacorta dates back to the Middle Ages, though the wine produced at that time was quite different from today’s. The first records of vineyards in Franciacorta go back to the 13th century, with the area gradually specializing in grape cultivation for winemaking. Over the centuries, Franciacorta built its reputation as a producer of fine wines, initially focusing on still whites and reds. In the 1960s, however, the classic-method Franciacorta sparkling wine began to emerge, thanks to entrepreneurs and winemakers like Franco Ziliani from Cantina Berlucchi and others. In 1967, Franciacorta received DOC status, granted to just eleven producers, including the historic Cantina di Franciacorta of Ricci Curbastro. Since then, Franciacorta wines have gained global acclaim.

3.Franciacorta Wine: What is It and How is It Made?

Franciacorta is one of Italy’s most prestigious wine regions, renowned for its sparkling wines that rival French Champagne. It’s not simply “Prosecco” (a common yet incorrect term for sparkling wine); Franciacorta is a high-quality wine that follows strict guidelines to merit its DOCG certification (Denomination of Controlled and Guaranteed Origin).

How is Franciacorta Sparkling Wine Made?

Creating Franciacorta is an art form, crafted using the classic method, or “Champenoise.” It’s important not to call it Franciacorta Prosecco, as the production process and costs are distinct from the Charmat or Martinotti methods:

Harvest and Pressing

Hand-picked grapes are carefully harvested at peak ripeness and gently pressed to obtain the purest “must,” the first juice from the grapes.

Grape Varieties Franciacorta

Only Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Bianco grapes are used in Franciacorta.

First Fermentation

The must ferments in steel tanks (or sometimes wooden barrels) to become the base wine for the sparkling Franciacorta.

Blending and Bottling

Base wines are blended to create the perfect “cuvée.” A “liqueur de tirage” (sugar and yeast) is then added to start the second fermentation.

Second Fermentation and Aging on the Lees

The wine rests in the bottle on the lees for at least 18 months, developing the fine bubbles and complex aromas characteristic of Franciacorta.

Remuage e Degorgement

The bottles are gradually rotated and tilted to collect sediment in the neck. Disgorgement then removes the sediment.

Dosage and Bottling

A small amount of “liqueur d’expedition” is added to adjust sweetness before the bottle is sealed, creating the final Franciacorta in its various styles (Brut, Extra Brut, etc.).

4.What is Franciacorta Saten? (Or Satèn Franciacorta?)

Franciacorta Satèn is a special variation of Franciacorta. It’s more delicate, with finer and softer bubbles that create a silky texture, hence the name “Satèn” (meaning “silk” in Italian). Satèn is made only from white grapes, primarily Chardonnay, and has a slightly lower pressure than other sparkling wines (5 atmospheres versus the usual 6-7), making it softer and more pleasant on the palate.

5.Franciacorta Satèn, Franciacorta Brut, and Extra Brut: Which for Aperitifs?

Choosing the right Franciacorta for an aperitif or dessert depends on its sweetness level and structure. Here are some guidelines:

• Franciacorta Satèn

Satèn has a fine, silky bubble structure, thanks to slightly lower pressure. Produced primarily with Chardonnay grapes, it offers a soft, creamy, and delicate profile with floral, fresh fruit, and subtle toasted notes.
Perfect as an aperitif, Satèn’s smoothness and refined bubbles complement light dishes and appetizers like canapés, raw fish, and fresh vegetables. It’s ideal for an elegant, delicate aperitif.

• Franciacorta Brut NV (Brut can also be Rosé, Satèn, or Riserva)

The classic and versatile Brut has a perfect balance of acidity and sweetness, with a rich aromatic bouquet and lively bubbles. It’s more structured than Satèn, making it highly adaptable.
Excellent as an aperitif or throughout a meal, Brut pairs well with more flavorful appetizers like cured meats, soft cheeses, and fried foods. It’s also great with more complex dishes, such as fish-based pasta and light risottos.

• Franciacorta Extra Brut or Dosage Zero

Extra Brut or Dosage Zero is a dry, bold version of Franciacorta with no added sugar. Its taste is decisively dry and highly mineral, with bold bubbles and a crisp freshness.
Ideal for those who enjoy a pure and uncompromising taste. For an aperitif, it pairs perfectly with oysters, seafood, and raw fish, and during meals with fish, shellfish, and white meats. However, it’s not recommended for dessert due to its dryness.

• Franciacorta Rosé

Franciacorta Rosé is a more aromatic and often intense version, usually with a high percentage of Pinot Noir, which gives it a rosé hue and fuller structure. It can be produced as pure Pinot Noir or as a blend dominated by Pinot Noir.
The Rosé features fruitier aromas than Brut, with red fruit notes like cherry, raspberry, and strawberry, blended with delicate yeast and sometimes floral hints. It has greater Perfect for richer appetizers and dishes featuring white meats, Rosé pairs well with cured meats, richer fish dishes (like salmon or tuna), and even some red meats, such as veal or light beef.

6.Which Franciacorta to Choose for Dessert?

Franciacorta wines are generally not suited for very sweet desserts, as they tend to be dry and lively in acidity. If you want Franciacorta with a dessert, consider it with less sugary treats like fresh fruit tarts or dry pastries. Satèn could be the best option for lighter desserts due to its softness.

Franciacorta Demi-Sec Pairings

For those looking for a slightly sweeter Franciacorta to pair with desserts:

• Fresh Fruit Tarts: The Demi-Sec’s sweetness enhances the fruit’s flavor without overpowering it.
• Dry Pastries and Biscuits: The delicate, buttery flavors of cookies match perfectly with a Demi-Sec.
• Almond or Nut-Based Desserts: Demi-Sec balances the richness of almonds or nuts without being too heavy.

If Franciacorta Demi-Sec is unavailable, try alternatives like:

• Asti Spumante: Naturally sweet and aromatic, perfect for creamy desserts.
• Moscato d’Asti: Slightly sparkling and sweet, ideal for fruit-based desserts.

7.And What About Franciacorta Riserva?

Franciacorta Riserva represents the highest quality level of Franciacorta wines, achieved through extended aging and advanced winemaking techniques that fully enhance the wine's complexity and structure. This sparkling wine is a luxury option, often produced in limited quantities, intended for connoisseurs seeking a memorable tasting experience.

The focal point of Franciacorta Riserva is its long aging on the lees, which must last at least 60 months but often extends to 8-10 years. This prolonged period allows the wine to evolve, developing a rich and complex aromatic profile as well as exceptional structure and persistence. The extended aging also results in fine, creamy bubbles—one of the distinctive characteristics of Riserva.

Aromatic Profile of Franciacorta Riserva

Franciacorta Riserva has a sophisticated aromatic profile marked by depth and refinement. Thanks to its long interaction with the lees, this wine develops aromas that range from dried fruit (almond, hazelnut) to honey and vanilla, with hints of bread crust and mineral notes. Some examples may even exhibit subtle spicy undertones, adding an extra layer of complexity. This aromatic bouquet makes Riserva particularly appealing to those looking for a refined tasting experience.

Cryo-Maceration Techniques in Franciacorta

Some producers, such as I Barisei, have adopted advanced techniques like cryo-maceration during the harvest phase. This technique involves treating the grapes at low temperatures, which helps to preserve primary aromas (such as fruity and floral notes) and maintain the wine’s natural acidity. Cryo-maceration avoids the loss of delicate aromatic compounds, ensuring a unique freshness and elegance in the finished wine.

Dosage Levels in Franciacorta Riserva

Most Franciacorta Riservas are produced in Extra Brut or Dosaggio Zero versions to emphasize the wine's purity and the complexity of aromas developed during the extended aging process. However, some producers offer Franciacorta Riserva as a Brut, balancing dryness with a touch of sweetness for those who prefer a softer profile.

Franciacorta embodies excellence in the Italian wine landscape, not only for the quality of the wine but also for the history and tradition that define this region. From the "corti franche" of the Middle Ages to the modern production of high-quality sparkling wines, Franciacorta has preserved a deep connection with its land. By adopting the classic method and focusing on aging techniques, like the prolonged rest on lees for Riserva, Franciacorta competes with the world's finest sparkling wines. It offers a variety of types, from Satèn to Dosage Zero, each ideal for specific pairings. The versatility and elegance of Franciacorta make each bottle a unique experience, reflecting a winemaking tradition that continues to evolve while honoring its historical roots.

Vinai del Borgo: Your Italian Wine Enoteca in the heart of Langhe in Piemonte

After a long experience in the wine world, Paul Borgogno founded Borgogno Wines Selections in 1994, with the goal of selecting high-quality Italian wines for foreign markets. In 2021, we opened a new chapter with the launch of Vinai del Borgo Enoteca Mondovi (Cuneo in Langhe). Located in the historic center of Breo, near the Langhe, in the heart of Piedmont, the enoteca serves as a meeting point between tradition and innovation. Today, Vinai del Borgo serves customers in Italy, the EU, and the USA, further expanding our reach through our Online Shop. We have just launched our 'Friends with Wine Benefits Program,' allowing our customers to earn free wine by introducing us to their friends and fellow wine enthusiasts. Our idea, as always, is to focus on people, who are at the heart of the wine world.