What kind of wine is Franciacorta Brut DOCG 'Pinònero Natura' 2017 - Contadi Castaldi (boxed)
Franciacorta Brut DOCG 'Pinònero Natura' 2017 - Contadi Castaldi (boxed) is a classic method sparkling wine, meaning it is produced through secondary fermentation in the bottle, the same process used for Champagne. It originates in the heart of Franciacorta, a Brescia territory known for its morainic soils and ideal microclimate for growing grapes destined for sparkling wines. It is a Brut of great charm, modern and rigorous at the same time, made entirely from Pinot Noir grapes and characterized by a dry, elegant, and enveloping style.Vintage Details
The 2017 harvest in Franciacorta was characterized by a mild winter and a sunny summer. The Pinot Noir grapes reached impeccable ripeness, giving the wine a balance between power and freshness. The result is a precise vintage with a well-defined structure, ideal for those who love complex but not overly austere sparkling wines.Vinification and Aging
The Pinònero Natura 2017 is produced according to the Classic Method. After soft pressing, the base wine ages for about 6 months partly in steel and partly in barriques, a step that enriches its aromatic depth. This is followed by secondary fermentation in the bottle and a long aging on the lees of about 60 months, during which the wine evolves, acquiring finesse and creaminess. After disgorgement, i.e., the removal of exhausted yeasts, the wine rests for another 6 months in the cellar before being released to the market.Tasting Notes
The Franciacorta Brut DOCG 'Pinònero Natura' 2017 - Contadi Castaldi stands out for its balance and identity, revealing all the nobility of Pinot Noir in its sparkling version.Color
In the glass, it presents a brilliant golden yellow, with a very fine and continuous perlage, a sign of long aging on the lees.Nose
On the nose, it offers complex and elegant aromas: notes of candied citrus, ripe apple, bread crust, and slight toasted nuances. Mineral and dried fruit notes then emerge, typical characteristics of Pinot Noir vinified in white and allowed to evolve for a long time.Palate
On the palate, it is fresh, vertical, and intense. The attack is tense and decisive, supported by a pleasant acidity; the finish is creamy and persistent, with citrus and slightly savory returns. A Franciacorta that combines finesse and structure, ideal for those who love dry but profound sparkling wines.What dishes to pair with Franciacorta Brut DOCG 'Pinònero Natura' 2017 - Contadi Castaldi (boxed)
Thanks to its versatility, this Brut is suitable for many gastronomic occasions. It is perfect as a classy aperitif, but can elegantly accompany an entire meal. Excellent with:- Raw fish and salmon tartare
- Shellfish and steamed seafood dishes
- Fish ravioli or delicate risottos
- White meats and medium-aged cheeses
Storage and Aging: how to store Franciacorta Brut DOCG 'Pinònero Natura' 2017 - Contadi Castaldi (boxed)
The Franciacorta Brut DOCG 'Pinònero Natura' 2017 - Contadi Castaldi can be enjoyed immediately to appreciate its fragrance and lively freshness, but it is also suitable for a brief aging in the bottle. It is recommended to store it in a cool, dark place, at a constant temperature between 10 and 12 °C, with the bottle laid horizontally to keep the cork moist. The aging potential is a maximum of 2-3 years, beyond which the bubbles tend to lose vivacity, making way for more evolved and complex notes. Perfect for those who wish to experience its elegant and full character in its youth.Contadi Castaldi
The history of the Contadi Castaldi winery Contadi Castaldi is a name that resonates among the Franciacorta hills, representing a perfect union between tradition and innovation. The history of this winery is rooted in a long winemaking legacy, which has evolved over time by embracing new technolo...
How to best open and serve Franciacorta Brut DOCG 'Pinònero Natura' 2017 - Contadi Castaldi (boxed)
1. Bottle Positioning
Before opening, position the bottle of Franciacorta Brut DOCG 'Pinònero Natura' 2017 - Contadi Castaldi (boxed) upright for at least a few hours. This allows natural sediments to settle at the bottom, ensuring a clear, impurity-free pour. If the wine has been stored horizontally, slowly return it to an upright position to avoid disturbing the deposits.
2. Ideal Serving Temperature
The serving temperature is crucial for enhancing the wine's aromatic profile. For this Franciacorta, it is recommended to serve it between 8°C and 10°C. Here are some useful tips:
- Chill the bottle in an ice bucket with ice and water for about 20-30 minutes.
- Avoid prolonged refrigeration, which can alter internal pressure and affect the quality of the bubbles.
3. Opening the Bottle
Properly opening a Franciacorta is an act of elegance and safety. Follow these steps:
- Carefully remove the capsule and loosen the wire cage without removing it completely.
- Set an angle of approximately 45° and hold the cork steady while slowly rotating the bottle.
- Allow the cork to detach gently, avoiding a "pop" to maintain the wine's effervescence and sophistication.
4. Inspection and First Taste
After opening the bottle, visually inspect the wine in the glass. The color should be intense straw yellow with golden reflections, a sign of maturity and finesse. On the first taste, assess the freshness, the consistency of the bubbles, and the cleanliness of the taste: these are indicators of the impeccable quality of Franciacorta Brut DOCG 'Pinònero Natura' 2017 - Contadi Castaldi (boxed).
5. Decanting and Oxygenation
Although Franciacorta is a classic method sparkling wine, a slight "oxygenation in the glass" can enhance the aromas and soften the more evolved notes of the 2017 vintage. If you wish to decant it to release the full aromatic complexity of Pinot Noir, proceed with caution:
- Use a narrow, transparent decanter to limit the loss of carbon dioxide.
- Pour slowly, so as to preserve some of the natural foam.
- Let it rest for 10-15 minutes before serving.
6. Serving
Serve Franciacorta Brut DOCG 'Pinònero Natura' 2017 - Contadi Castaldi (boxed) in tulip-shaped glasses or large champagne flutes. These allow the bubbles to rise slowly and the aromas to be released in the best way. Pour about one-third of the glass to encourage the formation of a fine and persistent crown of perlage.
7. Storage After Opening
If not consumed entirely, store the bottle in the refrigerator using a specific stopper for sparkling wines. This way, you can maintain pressure and freshness for 24-48 hours. Avoid leaving the wine at room temperature, as effervescence and fragrance may dissipate quickly.
By following these instructions, you can fully enjoy the complexity and elegance of Franciacorta Brut DOCG 'Pinònero Natura' 2017 - Contadi Castaldi (boxed), highlighting every nuance of this extraordinary Lombard classic method.