What kind of wine is Franciacorta Brut DOCG 'Brut Race - Ducati Corse' Magnum - Contadi Castaldi (cased)

The Franciacorta Brut DOCG "Brut Race - Ducati Corse" Magnum - Contadi Castaldi (cased) is a sparkling wine made using the traditional method, meaning it undergoes secondary fermentation in the bottle, the same process used for Champagne. It originates in the heart of Franciacorta, one of Lombardy's most renowned areas for producing excellent sparkling wines. It's a wine that combines the oenological precision of Contadi Castaldi with the passion and adrenaline of the Ducati Corse world, in a Magnum designed to celebrate the most important moments.

The base is dominated by Chardonnay, a variety that imparts elegance, freshness, and a rich, immediate aromatic profile. The result is a Franciacorta Brut with a modern, balanced, and versatile style, perfect for those who love sparkling wines with character yet a pleasant and never excessively complex sip.

Vintage details

Harvest generally takes place between late August and early September, the ideal period for preserving aromas and acidity. The typical climatic conditions of Franciacorta – warm but breezy summers and cool nights – favor uniform grape ripening, ensuring an excellent balance between structure and freshness. Each vintage is selected to maintain the consistent and recognizable profile of the Contadi Castaldi style.

Winemaking and aging

Production faithfully follows the Traditional Method, with a second fermentation directly in the bottle. After secondary fermentation, the wine rests for approximately 20-30 months on its lees, during which time it develops complexity and aromatic finesse. Remuage (gradual rotation of the bottles) and subsequent disgorgement (removal of spent yeasts) complete the process, resulting in a wine with a fine and persistent perlage. The final dosage – typical of a Brut – perfectly balances freshness and softness.

Tasting notes

A Franciacorta that captivates at first glance and first taste, remaining accessible even to those new to the world of traditional method sparkling wines.

Color

Brilliant straw yellow with golden reflections, enhanced by a dense and lasting perlage that testifies to its long stay on the lees.

Nose

On the nose, it opens with notes of white-fleshed fruit, apple and pear on a citrus background. Delicate hints of bread crust and toasted almond follow, inherited from the time spent on the lees. The aroma is fine, harmonious, and captivating, with a touch of minerality that invites tasting.

Taste

On the palate, it is fresh and lively, with an impeccable balance between acidity and softness. The creamy effervescence accompanies a pleasant smoothness, while the finish leaves a clean and savory sensation. It is an immediate yet refined Brut, capable of adapting to various consumption occasions.

What to pair Franciacorta Brut DOCG 'Brut Race - Ducati Corse' Magnum - Contadi Castaldi (cased) with

Versatile and dynamic, this Franciacorta Brut DOCG in Magnum format is ideal as an elegant aperitif but also paired with dishes throughout the meal. It pairs particularly well with:

• seafood appetizers and raw fish
• salmon carpaccio and tartare
• light risottos with fish or vegetables
• fresh and soft cheeses
• delicately spiced ethnic dishes

Perfect for sharing during parties and celebrations, thanks to the Magnum format which enhances conviviality and the wine's aromatic persistence.

Storage and aging: how to store Franciacorta Brut DOCG 'Brut Race - Ducati Corse' Magnum - Contadi Castaldi (cased)

As with all traditional method sparkling wines, this Franciacorta should also be stored in a cool, dark place with a constant temperature. Ideally, it should be kept horizontally, to keep the cork in contact with the wine and preserve its seal.

While capable of evolving slightly over time, this Brut is best enjoyed within the first 2-3 years after disgorgement, a period in which it expresses its freshness and liveliness to the fullest. It is therefore recommended to consume it young, to fully appreciate its fruity notes and the finesse of the bubbles.