What wine is Franciacorta Satèn DOCG 2019 Magnum - Contadi Castaldi

The Franciacorta Satèn DOCG 2019 Magnum - Contadi Castaldi is a sparkling wine made using the Traditional Method, meaning it undergoes a second fermentation in the bottle, just like Champagne. It originates in the heart of Franciacorta, Lombardy, one of Italy's most renowned areas for producing high-quality sparkling wines.

The Satèn version is distinguished by its elegance and softness: the pressure in the bottle is lower than that of a traditional Franciacorta, resulting in finer bubbles and a creamier, more velvety mouthfeel. The choice of the Magnum format (1.5 liters) also allows for more balanced maturation and greater aromatic complexity over time.

Vintage Details

The 2019 vintage in Franciacorta was characterized by regular weather, with a cool spring and well-distributed rainfall that favored an ideal vegetative cycle. The mild and dry summer allowed the grapes to ripen uniformly, concentrating aromas and acidity. The harvest, which took place at the end of August, yielded fresh, balanced base wines particularly suitable for elaboration in the Satèn style.

Winemaking and Aging

The Franciacorta Satèn DOCG 2019 Magnum - Contadi Castaldi is produced exclusively with selected Chardonnay grapes, vinified according to the strict protocol of the Traditional Method. After soft pressing, the base wines ferment in stainless steel at a controlled temperature; a portion ages in wood to enrich its complexity. This is followed by a second fermentation in the bottle, with a minimum of 30 months aging on the lees, which gives creaminess, depth, and the typical finesse of the Contadi Castaldi style.

Tasting Notes

Color

In the glass, it presents a brilliant straw yellow color, enhanced by golden reflections and a fine, persistent perlage, a sign of long aging on the lees.

Nose

On the nose, it opens with delicate aromas of white flowers, citrus, and yellow-fleshed fruit, accompanied by notes of hazelnut, bread crust, and mineral hints. A harmonious bouquet that speaks of its connection to the terroir and the meticulous care in the cellar.

Palate

On the palate, it is soft, silky, and perfectly balanced between freshness and creaminess. The fine bubbles enhance flavors of ripe fruit and almond, while the well-integrated acidity ensures a pleasant lingering taste. The finish is elegant, with a clean, almondy close, typical of the Satèn style.

Food Pairings for Franciacorta Satèn DOCG 2019 Magnum - Contadi Castaldi

Thanks to its soft texture and fine bubbles, Franciacorta Satèn DOCG 2019 Magnum - Contadi Castaldi is an extremely versatile wine at the table. It is ideal as an aperitif, but can elegantly accompany an entire meal. Perfect with:

• delicate fish or vegetable appetizers
• raw seafood and salmon tartare
• seafood or herb risottos
• soft, not overly aged cheeses
• vegetarian dishes and refined finger foods

A pairing to try is with a sunchoke velouté or an asparagus risotto: the harmony between the wine's creaminess and the dish's softness is impeccable.

Storage and Aging: How to Store Franciacorta Satèn DOCG 2019 Magnum - Contadi Castaldi

To best appreciate the freshness and aromatic finesse of Franciacorta Satèn DOCG 2019 Magnum - Contadi Castaldi, it is recommended to consume it within 2-3 years of disgorgement. However, it can still evolve elegantly for a short period, thanks to the Magnum format which ensures greater stability.

The wine should be stored in a cool, dark place with a constant temperature (between 10 and 14 °C), with the bottle lying down to keep the cork moist. It is advisable to serve it at a temperature of approximately 8-10 °C, to enhance its creaminess and its typical velvety elegance.