What kind of wine is Franciacorta Brut DOCG 'Alma Assemblage' - Bellavista (cased)

The Franciacorta Brut DOCG “Alma Assemblage” - Bellavista represents one of the most iconic expressions of the Italian classic method. It is born in the heart of Franciacorta, in Lombardy, a unique territory for sparkling wine production thanks to its temperate microclimate and mineral-rich soils. It is a Classic Method sparkling wine (or Champenoise), meaning it is produced with a second fermentation in the bottle, which gives it finesse, aromatic complexity, and a persistent, creamy mousse. The style is that of a balanced, elegant, and versatile Brut, capable of conveying the philosophy of quality and precision that has always distinguished the Bellavista winery.

Vintage details

The “Alma Assemblage” cuvée comes from a careful selection of multiple vintages, a choice that allows the house to maintain consistent quality and style over time. The grapes come from vineyards with an average age of about 25-30 years, cultivated in the best company crus. The harvests take place manually at different times, depending on the optimal ripeness of the grapes, to ensure a balance between freshness and aromatic richness.

Winemaking and aging

The winemaking of Franciacorta Brut DOCG “Alma Assemblage” - Bellavista follows the Classic Method, with an initial fermentation partly in steel and partly in small white oak barrels. After the assemblage of the different lots, the wine undergoes a second fermentation in the bottle and ages on its lees for about 30 months, well beyond the minimum required by the regulations. This long rest gives the wine a creamy texture and extraordinary taste complexity, while maintaining its innate fragrance.

Tasting Notes

Color

In the glass, the Franciacorta Brut DOCG “Alma Assemblage” - Bellavista (cased) displays a bright straw yellow color with golden reflections. The perlage is fine and continuous, a sign of great care in production and maturation.

Nose

The nose offers an elegant and complex bouquet with prominent notes of white flowers, citrus zest, and green apple. More mature hints of honey, bread crust, and almond emerge later, a result of the long aging on the lees. The overall impression is harmonious and inviting, never excessive.

Palate

On the palate, it stands out for its freshness and structure. The attack is lively and mineral, followed by a perfect balance between acidity and softness. The bubbles are delicate and creamy, while the finish is dry, clean, and pleasantly persistent, with citrusy and slightly toasted returns.

Food pairings for Franciacorta Brut DOCG 'Alma Assemblage' - Bellavista (cased)

This Franciacorta is an extremely versatile wine, suitable as an aperitif or throughout the meal. It pairs perfectly with:

• Light appetizers and refined finger foods
• Fish dishes, shellfish, and sushi
• Delicate first courses, such as seafood risottos or seasonal vegetable risottos
• White meats and poultry dishes
• Fresh or medium-aged cheeses

Its liveliness and aromatic balance also make it ideal for sharing during festive occasions or an informal dinner with friends.

Storage and aging: how to store Franciacorta Brut DOCG 'Alma Assemblage' - Bellavista (cased)

To best preserve the Franciacorta Brut DOCG “Alma Assemblage” - Bellavista, it is essential to keep it in a cool, dark place, with a constant temperature between 10 and 14°C. The bottle should preferably be stored horizontally, to keep the cork moist and prevent air infiltration. This sparkling wine expresses its character best in the first 2-3 years after disgorgement, an ideal period to appreciate its freshness and liveliness. However, a brief aging in the cellar can add further harmony and roundness, for those who wish to discover its evolution over time.