What kind of wine is Franciacorta Extra Brut DOCG ’61 - Berlucchi

The Franciacorta Extra Brut DOCG ’61 - Berlucchi is a Metodo Classico sparkling wine, meaning it is made with a second fermentation in the bottle, as is the case for Champagne. It originates in the heart of Franciacorta, Lombardy, one of Italy’s most renowned areas for sparkling wines made from Chardonnay and Pinot Noir. It is an Extra Brut, a style characterized by a very low sugar dosage, which enhances its freshness and clean taste. It is a modern and lively wine, designed for those who want to rediscover the tradition of Franciacorta in a more contemporary key.

Vintage Details

The grapes come from selected vineyards, harvested between late August and early September to maintain acidity and fresh aromas. The vintage was characterized by a balanced summer, with good temperature fluctuations between day and night that favored the uniform ripening of the bunches. This resulted in healthy, fragrant raw material rich in aromas.

Winemaking and Aging

The vinification of Franciacorta Extra Brut DOCG ’61 - Berlucchi initially takes place in stainless steel, where the purity of the fruit is enhanced. After the assemblage of the cuvée — that is, the blend of base wines from different parcels — the wine is bottled for the second fermentation in the bottle, according to the Metodo Classico. This is followed by aging on the lees for at least 24 months, during which the sparkling wine develops complexity and finesse. After disgorgement, it rests in the cellar for about 60 days before being released to the market, thus achieving the ideal balance of freshness, structure, and elegance.

Tasting Notes

Franciacorta Extra Brut DOCG ’61 - Berlucchi stands out for its elegant and contemporary profile, perfectly balanced between liveliness and refinement.

Color

It displays a brilliant straw yellow with light golden reflections. The perlage is fine and persistent, a sign of a long stay on the lees and a meticulous production method.

Nose

The nose opens with aromas of fresh citrus, green apple, and white flowers, enriched by nuances of toasted bread and hazelnut, typical of aging on the lees. The scents are clear, clean, and well-balanced, with a freshness that invites tasting.

Palate

On the palate, it is fresh, savory, and citrusy, with a lively acidity that supports the sip through to a dry and clean finish. The fine bubbles caress the palate, making it dynamic and immediate to drink. A perfect balance of intensity and lightness, ideal for all convivial occasions.

Food Pairings for Franciacorta Extra Brut DOCG ’61 - Berlucchi

Versatile and contemporary, Franciacorta Extra Brut DOCG ’61 - Berlucchi is perfect as an aperitif but also throughout a meal. Its citrus freshness and balanced structure make it ideal with:

• Delicate fish or shellfish appetizers
• Sushi and sashimi
• Ricotta and herb ravioli
• Light white meats or lemon chicken
• Fresh or lightly aged cheeses

Also try it with a seafood fritto misto or with dishes based on crispy vegetables: its acidity will perfectly balance the fatty component of fried foods and the natural sweetness of vegetables.

Storage and Aging

Those who wonder how to store Franciacorta Extra Brut DOCG ’61 - Berlucchi wine should know that it is designed to be enjoyed in its freshness. It is advisable to drink it within 2-3 years after disgorgement, a period during which it best maintains its lively and citrusy character. Over time, it may acquire slight notes of bread and dried fruit, but its true essence remains that of an immediate and brilliant wine.

Store the bottle horizontally, away from light and at a constant temperature around 12 °C, to preserve all its vitality and the finesse of its perlage.