What kind of wine is Franciacorta DOCG “Riserva 33” Pas Dosé 2016 - Ferghettina?
Franciacorta DOCG “Riserva 33” Pas Dosé 2016 - Ferghettina is a Metodo Classico sparkling wine – meaning it is made with a second fermentation in the bottle, the same process used for great French Champagnes – that originates in the heart of Franciacorta, in the province of Brescia, one of Italy's most highly-regarded wine regions for the production of quality sparkling wines. The "Pas Dosé" style means that no sugar is added after disgorgement, making the wine extremely pure and transparent in expressing its terroir and the producer's touch.Vintage Details
The 2016 vintage was characterized by a balanced climate: a mild spring, a regular summer, and a bright and dry September, ideal for a slow and complete ripening of the grapes. The favorable conditions allowed for the production of Chardonnay grapes with great aromatic concentration and well-preserved natural acidity, an essential element for the wine's longevity.Winemaking and Aging
The "Riserva 33" is born from a meticulous selection of the best vineyard plots, vinified separately. After the initial tastings, the cuvées are blended with precision to create a balance of structure, elegance, and freshness. Aging takes place on the fine lees for 80 months (over six years), a very long period that allows the wine to develop surprising complexity and finesse. Malolactic fermentation is controlled to preserve the lively acidity that characterizes the Pas Dosé style.Tasting Notes
Color
Visually, it presents a bright golden yellow with brilliant reflections, enhanced by a very fine and persistent perlage, a tangible sign of the long maturation on the yeasts.Nose
The aromatic profile is deep and elegant. Notes of bread crust, dried fruit, and hints of candied citrus are discernible. With aeration, nuances of honey, sweet spices, and a light mineral note emerge, speaking to Franciacorta's calcareous soil.Palate
On the palate, it is dry, enveloping, and supported by a vibrant freshness. The absence of sugar dosage highlights the purity of Chardonnay and a balanced acidity that gives length and tension. The finish is persistent, with toasted and citrusy returns.Food Pairings for Franciacorta DOCG “Riserva 33” Pas Dosé 2016 - Ferghettina
Its elegance and complexity make it ideal for accompanying refined and flavorful dishes. Recommended pairings include:- Raw fish or shellfish, such as tuna carpaccio or shrimp tartare
- More structured seafood dishes, such as seafood risottos or grilled lobster
- Aged, hard cheeses
- White meats or poultry with delicate sauces
Storage and Aging – How to Store Franciacorta DOCG “Riserva 33” Pas Dosé 2016 - Ferghettina
To best appreciate the freshness and vitality of Franciacorta DOCG “Riserva 33” Pas Dosé 2016 - Ferghettina, it is advisable to store it in a cool place, away from light, and at a constant temperature between 10 and 14°C. The bottle should remain in a horizontal position to keep the cork moist. While capable of fascinating evolution over time, it is preferable to consume it within 2-3 years of purchase to best capture its finesse, freshness, and the purity of its effervescence.Ferghettina
The History of Ferghettina Winery Ferghettina winery is a symbol of excellence in the Italian wine scene, combining tradition and innovation. Founded in the heart of Franciacorta, this winery has grown over time thanks to a legacy of passion and dedication to quality. Respect for the territory an...
How to best open and serve Franciacorta DOCG “Riserva 33” Pas Dosé 2016 - Ferghettina
1. Bottle Positioning
Before opening Franciacorta DOCG “Riserva 33” Pas Dosé 2016 - Ferghettina, ensure the bottle has been kept horizontally, in a cool, dark place. Approximately one day before serving, place it in an upright position so that any natural sediment can settle at the bottom, ensuring a clearer and more enjoyable serve.
2. Ideal Serving Temperature
The ideal temperature for serving this Franciacorta Riserva Pas Dosé is between 8 and 10°C. Chill the bottle slowly in the refrigerator for a few hours or by immersing it for about 30 minutes in an ice bucket with ice and water. Avoid excessive temperature changes that could alter the wine's aromatic bouquet.
3. Opening the Bottle
To correctly open Franciacorta DOCG “Riserva 33” Pas Dosé 2016 - Ferghettina:
- Carefully remove the foil without shaking the bottle.
- Hold the cork firmly with one hand and slowly rotate the base of the bottle with the other.
- Allow the cork to release with a gentle sigh, avoiding a "pop," to prevent the dissipation of carbon dioxide and delicate aromas.
4. Inspection and First Taste
After opening, pour a small amount into the glass and check its color and aroma. A Franciacorta Riserva 2016 in perfect condition will exhibit a fine and persistent perlage, with notes of bread crust, hazelnut, and mineral hints. If everything is in order, you can proceed with pouring for your guests.
5. Decanting and Oxygenation
Even though it is a traditional method sparkling wine, the evolved character of Franciacorta DOCG “Riserva 33” Pas Dosé 2016 - Ferghettina can benefit from slight oxygenation. After opening, let it rest in the glass for a few minutes: this will help to expand the aromas and soften any harsher notes. Avoid true decanting, so as not to compromise the liveliness of the perlage.
6. Serving
Use tulip-shaped glasses or those with a slightly flared opening, ideal for enhancing the complex bouquet and fine perlage of the wine. Pour slowly, tilting the glass slightly, and serve small quantities to maintain the ideal temperature during tasting.
7. Storage After Opening
If not entirely consumed, reseal the bottle with an airtight stopper for sparkling wines and store it in the refrigerator. Franciacorta DOCG “Riserva 33” Pas Dosé 2016 - Ferghettina will maintain its best characteristics for approximately 24 hours. After this period, you might notice a decrease in perlage, but the aromas will still remain pleasant.