Franciacorta
Halfway between Verona and Milan is Franciacorta, a small land of approximately 2,800 hectares of vineyards, which extends south of Lake Iseo. This is an area famous not only for the production of the homonymous wine, the Franciacorta DOCG, but also for the beautiful hills, and the numerous cultural and historical sites. The wineries of Franciacorta are over a hundred and some are located in buildings of architectural and artistic interest.
While boasting a long history, the new course of Franciacorta viticulture begins at the beginning of the sixties with the birth of the first wineries. At the end of the seventies Italian enology experienced a phase of great renvation and in Franciacorta several entrepreneurs invested on the cultivation of the vine. From there the growth was very quick and today Franciacorta is a wine area of national reference for the production of Spumante Metodo Classico.
Research, passion, innovation and dedication are some of the values that have helped Franciacorta to become one of the most appreciated sparkling wines in the world, so that, in 1995, Franciacorta was assigned with the first denomination in Italy- DOCG – for a wine refermented in bottle.
Franciacorta DOCG wine is obtained from Chardonnay and / or Pinot Nero and / or Pinot Bianco and / or Erbamat grapes – a native variety – and is produced in three types: Franciacorta DOCG, Franciacorta Satèn DOCG (obtained only from white berried grapes) and Franciacorta Rosé DOCG (at least 25% of Pinot Nero). In addition to these, we can find Franciacorta DOCG Millesimato (with grapes coming at least for 85% from the same vintage on the label) and Franciacorta DOCG Riserva (with aging on the lees for at least 60 months), that are the most prestigious wines of the Denomination.
There are differet types of Franciacorta according to the residual sugar content : Zero dosage, Extra Brut, Brut, Extra Dry, Sec and Demi-Sec (with the exception of the “Satèn” type for which only the Brut version is available).
Since July 2008, with the publication of the new disciplinary the name of the DOC “Terre di Franciacorta”, used for the still red and white wines produced here, has been replaced with Curtefranca DOC.
If you are curious to learn more about Franciacorta with its breathtaking views on vineyards and picturesque villages, and want to savor the elegance and charm of its bubbles, book a wine tour together with Pagus Wine Tours, we are waiting for you!
FAQ
Where is the Franciacorta region located?
Franciacorta is located in Lombardy, in the province of Brescia, specifically on the southern shore of Lake Iseo.
Why is it called Franciacorta?
The name “Franciacorta” comes from curtes francae, meaning “free courts”, referring to the monasteries in the Middle Ages that were exempt from paying taxes.
Which tours do you offer in Franciacorta?
Among the tours that we offer, we have one in particular dedicated to the Franciacorta region, an area well known and renowned for its elegant sparkling wines:
Franciacorta Wines (full day): approximately 8.5 hours, here you will discover the charm of this land and its famous sparkling wines. The tour included an excursion through hills and then you will visit a local wine producer and you take part in a Franciacorta wine tasting. For lunch, you will try an elegant restaurant and finally, you’ll visit a second Franciacorta vineyard. https://www.paguswinetours.com/private-wine-tasting/franciacorta-wines/
If I want to reach Franciacorta on my own, which options do I have?
Franciacorta is about 90 kilometers from Verona. By car, it can be reached by A4 motorway and it takes about one hour to get there. As for public transport, you can take a train from Verona Porta Nuova station to Milano Centrale and get off in Brescia; several buses run to Franciacorta and the surrounding areas.
Which are the main grape varieties in Franciacorta?
The main grape varieties in this renowned area are Chardonnay, Pinot Bianco and Pinot Nero, the last one is mainly used for the rosè version.
Which sparkling wines make Franciacorta famous?
The Franciacorta region is especially known for its sparkling wines, starting with Franciacorta DOCG, produced using the traditional method (secondary fermentation in the bottle). Other types include Franciacorta Satèn (a softer style), Franciacorta Rosé (with fruity notes and more structure), Franciacorta Millesimato and Franciacorta Riserva.
Which are the perfect food pairings for Franciacorta DOCG?
Franciacorta DOCG pairs perfectly with delicate flavors, such as saffron risotto with shrimp. Alternatively, it can also be paired by contrast with richer, fattier foods, as the wine’s freshness helps cleanse the palate and create a pleasant balance.
What typical food can I find in Franciacorta?
The most iconic dish in Franciacorta is Manzo all’olio di Rovato, a main course made by slowly cooking a cut of beef (“cappello del prete” or shoulder/clod) in a reach emulsion of extra virgin olive oil, anchovies, garlic and vegetables. Since Franciacorta is in the province of Brescia, you can also find other local specialities such as Robiola Bresciana and seasoned lard, often paired with local wines.
What is the best time to visit Franciacorta?
Spring and autumn are excellent seasons to visit Franciacorta thanks to its beautiful landscapes. Late summer (august-september) is also a lively period due to the grape harvest season.
What can I visit in Franciacorta besides wines?
In Franciacorta, there are many activities beyond winery visits and wine tastings. You can explore Lake Iseo, with its beautiful lakeside promenade perfect for walks and its charming medieval villages. Art and history lovers can visit the Castle of Bornato, which also includes a Renaissance villa; for nature and scenic experiences, you can take a ferry from Iseo to Monte Isola, the largest lake island in Europe, ideal for cycling tours.