Frequently asked questions about Franciacorta

What is Franciacorta famous for?

Franciacorta is famous primarily for the production of the highest quality sparkling wines made using the classic method, the same method used to make Champagne in France. These sparkling wines are known for their finesse, aromatic complexity and longevity. The Franciacorta DOCG designation guarantees the excellence and origin of these wines.

What is the grape variety of Franciacorta?

The main grape variety used in the production of Franciacorta is Chardonnay, often combined with Pinot Noir and, to a lesser extent, Pinot Blanc. These grape varieties give the wine its distinctive characteristics of elegance, structure and complexity.

Franciacorta metodo classico disciplinary

Franciacorta Metodo Classico is produced following a very strict disciplinary, which involves a second fermentation in the bottle, during which the wine acquires its bubbles. This process requires a minimum period of aging on the lees of 18 months for non-vintage, 30 months for vintage and 60 months for reserve. In addition, the specifications establish specific rules regarding harvesting, vinification and bottling, all of which are aimed at ensuring the highest quality of the final product.

How many types of Franciacorta are there?

Franciacorta Brut: The most common type. It is fresh, lively and versatile in pairings.

Franciacorta Extra Brut: Contains less sugar than Brut. It has a drier, cleaner flavor.

Franciacorta Dosaggio Zero (or Pas Dosé): Without added sugar. It is very dry and enhances the natural characteristics of the wine.

Franciacorta Satèn: An exclusive type of Franciacorta, made only from white grapes (mainly Chardonnay and a maximum of 50 percent Pinot Blanc). It has a lower pressure than other sparkling wines, which gives it a softer, creamier froth. It is always brut.

Franciacorta Rosé: Made with at least 35 percent Pinot Noir, which gives it its characteristic pink color.

Franciacorta Millesimato: Made only in the best vintages, with at least 85 percent of grapes from the same vintage indicated on the label. It must age on the lees for at least 30 months.

Franciacorta Riserva: Represents the excellence of Franciacorta production, aged on the lees for at least 60 months.

Differences between Franciacorta and Prosecco

Franciacorta and Prosecco are both sparkling wines, but they differ in several ways. Franciacorta is made in Lombardy using the classic method, which involves second fermentation in the bottle, using mainly Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Blanc grapes. It is characterized by fine perlage and high aromatic complexity. Prosecco, on the other hand, comes mainly from the Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia regions, and is made by the Charmat method, where the second fermentation takes place in an autoclave, using mainly Glera grapes. It has a lighter perlage and fresh, fruity notes. Franciacorta tends to be more expensive and complex, while Prosecco is generally cheaper and lighter.

How much does a tasting in Franciacorta cost?

The price of a Franciacorta tasting ranges from €25 to €55 per person.