What kind of wine is Franciacorta Brut DOCG 'Naturae' 2021 - Barone Pizzini?

The Franciacorta Brut DOCG 'Naturae' 2021 - Barone Pizzini is a Classic Method sparkling wine – meaning it is produced with secondary fermentation in the bottle – and is one of Franciacorta's most representative wines. Hailing from vineyards located in the municipality of Provaglio d’Iseo, Lombardy, this wine is made from a balanced blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, cultivated according to certified organic practices. Its "Brut Nature" style indicates the absence of added sugars after refermentation, enhancing its purity, freshness, and the natural expression of the terroir.

Vintage Details

The 2021 vintage in Franciacorta was characterized by balanced weather conditions. Spring rains and moderate temperatures favored a gradual ripening of the grapes, maintaining excellent acidity levels and intense aromas. The grapes, hand-picked between late August and early September, yielded base wines of remarkable finesse and aromatic precision.

Winemaking and Aging

The Franciacorta Brut DOCG 'Naturae' 2021 - Barone Pizzini is produced using the Classic Method, meaning with a secondary fermentation directly in the bottle. After primary fermentation, the wine rests on its lees for at least 30 months, a phase called lees aging which contributes to developing complexity and creaminess. Without dosage (i.e., no added sugar at the time of disgorgement), this Franciacorta expresses the most authentic essence of its origin, with a dry and mineral style.

Tasting Notes

The Naturae 2021 is a Franciacorta that captivates with its aromatic clarity and a vibrant freshness that invites another sip.

Color

Visually, it presents a luminous straw yellow, enlivened by a fine and persistent perlage, indicative of prolonged lees aging and great care in the cellar.

Nose

The aromatic profile is broad and precise: notes of fresh citrus, green apple, and white flowers emerge, along with slight nuances of bread crust and toasted almond, typical of long aging. The olfactory finish reveals an inviting saline vein, a legacy of the calcareous soil of the Pian delle Viti vineyard.

Palate

On the palate, energy and mineral tension stand out. The structure is supported by pleasant acidity and a creamy texture that balances the dry component. The sip flows precisely and vertically, revealing a sensation of marine freshness and great overall harmony in the finish.

What dishes to pair with Franciacorta Brut DOCG 'Naturae' 2021 - Barone Pizzini

This Franciacorta, with its fine foam and essential taste, lends itself to many pairings, proving perfect both as an aperitif and throughout a meal. Here are some suggestions:

• Raw seafood and oysters, to enhance its saline note and freshness.
• Fish-based appetizers, carpaccio or salmon tartare.
• Light first courses such as vegetable risottos or seafood risottos.
• Fresh cheeses and goat cheeses, which enhance its balanced acidity.

Its versatility also makes it ideal for accompanying vegetarian cuisine or fusion dishes, where the elegance and purity of the wine find the right balance with delicate and spicy flavors.

Storage and aging – how to store Franciacorta Brut DOCG 'Naturae' 2021 - Barone Pizzini wine

To best appreciate its fragrance and freshness, the Franciacorta Brut DOCG 'Naturae' 2021 - Barone Pizzini should be consumed within 2-3 years from disgorgement. It is recommended to store it in a cool, dark place with a constant temperature, preferably horizontally to keep the cork moist. Serve it at a temperature between 6 and 8°C to best enhance the fineness and liveliness of the bubbles.