Franciacorta wines: types, organoleptic properties and accompaniments

Franciacorta is a DOCG sparkling wine, whose production is only allowed in the province of Brescia. It is named after the region where it is made. Its main feature is that the second fermentation process only happens using the traditional method, which takes place in the bottle with a mixture of sugar and yeast. This particular process is also called "metodo classico".

The production area of Franciacorta wines includes the towns of Paratico, Roe, Adro, Erbusco, Corte Franca, Iseo, Ome, Monticelli Brusati, Rodengo-Saiano, Paderno Franciacorta, Passirano, Provaglio Iseo, Cellatica, Gussago and the municipalities of Cologne, Coccaglio and Rovato Cazzago San Martino. All of them are in the province of Brescia.

There are three different types of Franciacorta wines, namely white, rosé and satèn. The latter is the most special one, unique in the whole world. Compared to the others, it is less pungent, leaving a more soft and silky taste on the palate.

The white Franciacorta is produced using Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes. It has a straw yellow color, more or less intense, and a delicate odor. Its taste is fresh and harmonious.

The rosé one is produced using Chardonnay grapes with Pinot Blanc (at a maximum of 50%) and Pinot Noir (at a maximum of 25%). It has a pink color with more or less intense shades and possible copper hues. Its scent is subtle and delicate, its flavor is fruity and fresh.

The satèn Franciacorta is produced using mainly Chardonnay grapes and Pinot Bianco up to a maximum of 50%. Compared to the other Franciacorta wines, it is characterized by a lower bottle pressure. It has a pale yellow or golden color, its scent is subtle and delicate, while its flavor is creamy and harmonious.

Depending on the sweetness of the wine, there are various types of Franciacorta you can find on the market: Dosage zero, Extra Brut, Brut, Extra Dry, Sec and Demi Sec. The only precluded version is the “sweet” one.

Franciacorta is a classic meal wine, suitable for any occasion. Its three different types have, however, specific and favorite accompaniments. The white one is particularly suitable for roasts, risottos and as an aperitif. The rosé one is a perfect accompaniment to polenta and local sweets. Finally, the satèn Franciacorta is particularly indicated for fish dishes, especially not elaborated ones.