What kind of wine is Franciacorta Extra Brut DOCG 'Coro delle Monache' 2015 - Arcari e Danesi
Franciacorta Extra Brut DOCG 'Coro delle Monache' 2015 - Arcari e Danesi is a Metodo Classico sparkling wine, meaning it is produced with a second fermentation in the bottle, the same process that gives rise to Champagne and other great Italian sparkling wines. It is produced in Lombardy, in the heart of the Franciacorta area, a territory distinguished by its ideal microclimate and morainic soils, perfect for cultivating grapes destined for wines of great freshness and complexity. This is an Extra Brut, therefore with a very low sugar dosage, which enhances the purity and precision of the sip, without masking the mineral and fruity notes.
Vintage details
The 2015 vintage in Franciacorta was characterized by a regular climate: a mild spring and a warm but not excessive summer. The Pinot Noir grapes, used purely for this sparkling wine, reached perfect phenolic ripeness, guaranteeing balance between structure and freshness. The vintage is distinguished by harmonious wines, with an elegant profile and well-defined fruit.
Winemaking and aging
The Franciacorta Extra Brut DOCG 'Coro delle Monache' 2015 - Arcari e Danesi originates from a careful selection of Pinot Noir vinified according to the classic method. After re-fermentation in the bottle, the wine remains in contact with the yeasts for 38 months, during which it develops aromatic complexity and gustatory finesse. This is followed by disgorgement (i.e., the removal of exhausted yeasts) and further bottle aging of at least six months, which gives it balance and depth.
Tasting notes
An elegant and refined Franciacorta, which captivates from the first sip with its natural harmony of freshness, acidity, and persistence.
Colour
In the glass, it presents a luminous straw yellow, crossed by a fine and continuous perlage, a sign of a long stay on the yeasts.
Nose
The bouquet is complex and precise: it opens with notes of ripe citrus, green apple, and bread crust, typical of the Metodo Classico. Deeper accents of almond and light mineral nuances then emerge, recalling its territory of origin.
Taste
On the palate it is dry, fresh, and savory, with a silky bubble that accompanies a full yet balanced body. The lively acidity and long aromatic persistence make this sparkling wine ideal for those who love clean bubbles, without excessive sweetness.
Food pairings with Franciacorta Extra Brut DOCG 'Coro delle Monache' 2015 - Arcari e Danesi
Thanks to its decisive character and the typical freshness of Pinot Noir, this Franciacorta Extra Brut is extremely versatile at the table. It is perfect for:
- refined aperitifs, with finger food or salmon crostini;
- fish dishes, particularly raw fish and tartare;
- seafood and shellfish;
- delicate white meats and fresh cheeses.
Its savouriness and light tannic structure also make it pleasant with Asian fish-based dishes or with vegetarian preparations with a strong flavor.
Storage and aging: how to store Franciacorta Extra Brut DOCG 'Coro delle Monache' 2015 - Arcari e Danesi
To best appreciate its freshness and vivacity, Franciacorta Extra Brut 'Coro delle Monache' 2015 should be stored in a cool, dark place with a constant temperature, preferably around 12-14°C. It is advisable to keep it horizontally, so that the cork remains constantly moist and perfectly adherent to the neck of the bottle.
This sparkling wine is intended to be consumed young, when the balance between acidity and complexity is at its peak. However, it can evolve elegantly for another 2-3 years after disgorgement, acquiring softer and rounder nuances.
Arcari and Danesi
The History of Arcari e Danesi Winery The Arcari e Danesi winery is a symbol of tradition and innovation in the world of wine. Located in the heart of Franciacorta, it was founded by young wine enthusiasts with the goal of combining the respectability of ancient traditions with the most innovati...
How to open and best serve Franciacorta Extra Brut DOCG 'Coro delle Monache' 2015 - Arcari e Danesi
1. Bottle Positioning
Before opening the Franciacorta Extra Brut DOCG 'Coro delle Monache' 2015 - Arcari e Danesi, position the bottle upright for at least a few hours. This allows natural sediments, typical of aged wines, to settle at the bottom, ensuring a clearer and cleaner serving.
Avoid abrupt movements: gentle handling preserves the elegance of the bubbles and the wine's structure.
2. Ideal Serving Temperature
The right temperature is crucial to best appreciate the aromas and fineness of the perlage. We recommend serving the Franciacorta Extra Brut between 8°C and 10°C. To achieve this:
- Place the bottle in the refrigerator for about 2 hours before serving.
- Alternatively, immerse it in an ice bucket with ice and water for 20-25 minutes.
Avoid serving the wine too cold, as lower temperatures tend to suppress the aromas and diminish the gustatory complexity.
3. Opening the Bottle
To properly open a bottle of Franciacorta Extra Brut DOCG 'Coro delle Monache' 2015 - Arcari e Danesi:
- Remove the top foil, leaving the wire cage visible.
- Hold the cork firmly with one hand and the base of the bottle with the other.
- Slowly twist the bottle (not the cork) with small movements, until you feel a slight release of air accompanied by a sigh, not a pop.
This technique preserves the effervescence and highlights the refinement of Franciacorta's typical perlage.
4. Inspection and First Taste
After opening, pour a small amount into a glass to check clarity and aromas. The color should be brilliant, with golden tones and greenish reflections. On the nose, look for evolved notes of bread crust, candied citrus, and slight mineral nuances.
A small first sip will help you assess whether the wine needs oxygenation or can be served perfectly right away.
5. Decantation and Oxygenation
Although uncommon for sparkling wines, moderate decantation can benefit a vintage Franciacorta like 'Coro delle Monache' 2015. If the aromas are initially closed or reductive notes are present, you can proceed as follows:
- Gently pour the wine into a wide carafe or a specific decanter for sparkling wines.
- Let it rest for 10-15 minutes, keeping the temperature under control.
This operation helps to open up the aromatic bouquet, allowing you to fully appreciate the complexity of Franciacorta Extra Brut DOCG 'Coro delle Monache' 2015 - Arcari e Danesi.
6. Serving
Serve the wine in large glasses, such as a wide flute or a white wine glass, to allow for better perception of the aroma. Pour slowly along the inside wall of the glass to maintain the fineness of the foam.
Pair the Franciacorta Extra Brut DOCG 'Coro delle Monache' 2015 - Arcari e Danesi with refined dishes such as crustaceans, fish carpaccios, seafood pasta, or aged cheeses. Its balance of freshness and structure enhances gourmet dishes and refined tasting moments.
7. Storage After Opening
If the bottle is not finished, re-seal it with a specific airtight stopper for sparkling wines. Store it in the refrigerator at 4°C-6°C and consume within 24 hours to avoid losing the liveliness of the bubbles and the fragrance of the aromas.
By following these simple steps, you can enhance all the nuances and personality of the Franciacorta Extra Brut DOCG 'Coro delle Monache' 2015 - Arcari e Danesi, enjoying an authentic and memorable tasting experience.