Franciacorta is a wine producing area in the region of Lombardia, Italia, known for its sparkling wines made with the traditional method. The first mention of sparkling wines being created in the area dates back to the 15th century but it was a very different version to what we know today. In 1961, oenologist Franco Ziliani paired with Count Guido Berlucchi, to develop a sparkling wine made with the same method as French Champagne. Finally, in 1995, Franciacorta gained Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOCG) status, Italy’s top-quality designation.
Franciacorta DOCG must be made with the approved grape varieties Chardonnay and Pinot Noir (just like in Champagne), with a maximum of 50% Pinot Bianco and 10% Erbamat, an indigenous ancient white grape. The grapes must be hand-harvested, and the bubbles created by second fermentation in the bottle, before undergoing a slow ageing on the lees that must last from 18 months up to 5 years for the Riservas.
Enjoy our selection of Berlucchi Franciacorta and discover why it is known as “Italy’s Champagne”
Author: Maytte Rivera
