What wine is Franciacorta Satèn DOCG 2021 - Contadi Castaldi

The Franciacorta Satèn DOCG 2021 - Contadi Castaldi is an elegant expression of the Classic method, which is refermentation in the bottle, the same used for Champagne. It is born in the heart of Franciacorta, in Lombardy, a hilly area famous for the production of high-quality sparkling wines. The Satèn style represents the softest and most velvety soul of Franciacorta: it is indeed a Blanc de Blancs, produced only with white grapes – mainly Chardonnay – and with a slightly lower pressure in the bottle compared to other Franciacorta wines, to obtain a finer foam and a creamy sensation on the palate.

Vintage details

The 2021 harvest in Franciacorta was characterized by a balanced climate: a relatively mild winter, a dry spring, and a summer without excessive heat. These conditions favored homogeneous ripening of the grapes, preserving acidity and aromas. The result is a vintage that combines fragrant freshness and great balance, ideal for producing a Satèn of refined elegance.

Winemaking and aging

The Franciacorta Satèn DOCG 2021 - Contadi Castaldi is made according to the Classic method, with a second fermentation in the bottle. After a first vinification in steel tanks, the most elegant base wines are blended and refermented in the bottle where they remain on the lees for at least 24-30 months. This long aging confers aromatic depth, fine bubbles, and an extraordinary gustatory harmony. The careful analysis of the perlage and its silkiness are the distinctive features of this label.

Tasting notes

Color

In the glass, it presents a clear and luminous straw yellow, enriched by golden reflections. The perlage is fine and continuous, indicating careful refermentation and long contact with the yeasts.

Nose

On the nose, it offers a delicate and complex bouquet: dominant aromas of white flowers, citrus, and yellow-fleshed fruit, accompanied by notes of bread crust and vanilla, typical of aging on the lees. Its aromaticity is fine and never overpowering, underscoring the elegant identity of Satèn.

Taste

On the palate, it is harmonious and velvety. The soft and creamy bubble supports a fresh sip, with balanced acidity and a mineral finish. The gustatory sensation is one of great cleanliness and persistence, with citrus returns and a hint of sweet almond. The overall impression is of a refined and very drinkable sparkling wine.

What dishes to pair with Franciacorta Satèn DOCG 2021 - Contadi Castaldi

Its finesse and creamy profile make it an extremely versatile companion at the table. Perfect as an aperitif, it pairs well with:

• fish or shellfish appetizers
• crudités and seafood carpaccios
• seafood or vegetable risottos
• fresh and goat cheeses
• dishes based on delicate white meats

Its softness perfectly balances savory or slightly spicy dishes, enhancing their freshness.

Storage and aging

How to store Franciacorta Satèn DOCG 2021 - Contadi Castaldi wine

To preserve its fragrance, store the bottles in a cool place, with a constant temperature between 10°C and 14°C, away from direct light and vibrations. Satèn is meant to be enjoyed in its youth, when its freshness and creaminess are at their peak expression. It is recommended to consume it within 2-3 years from the harvest to fully appreciate its aromatic finesse and delicate structure. After this period, it may evolve towards more toasted and honeyed notes, but will progressively lose its natural liveliness.