What kind of wine is Franciacorta Satèn DOCG 'Tenuta Montenisa - Donna Cora' 2021 - Tenuta Montenisa

The Franciacorta Satèn DOCG 'Tenuta Montenisa - Donna Cora' 2021 - Tenuta Montenisa is a refined Italian sparkling wine, produced according to the Classic Method, the same one used for Champagnes, which involves a second fermentation in the bottle. It originates in the heart of Franciacorta, in Lombardy, one of Italy's most suitable areas for producing high-quality sparkling wines. The Satèn style, exclusive to Franciacorta, is distinguished by a softer and creamier foam, due to a slightly lower internal pressure compared to other Franciacorta wines. The result is an elegant and velvety wine, ideal for those seeking a balance between freshness and harmony.

Vintage Details

The 2021 vintage was characterized by a mild winter and a regular spring, followed by a balanced summer with good temperature fluctuations that favored the optimal ripening of the Chardonnay grapes. The harvest took place between late August and early September, allowing for healthy grapes rich in aromas, with well-balanced acidity and fragrant scents.

Winemaking and Aging

The production of Franciacorta Satèn DOCG 'Tenuta Montenisa - Donna Cora' 2021 - Tenuta Montenisa follows the rigorous Classic Method. After alcoholic fermentation in steel, a portion of the wine briefly ages in barriques to add complexity and roundness. Subsequently, the wine is bottled with selected yeasts for the second fermentation in the bottle, where it remains in contact with the lees for about 24-30 months. This long aging imparts structure, elegance, and a fine and persistent perlage, typical of quality Franciacorta wines.

Tasting Notes

Color

Visually, it presents a brilliant straw yellow with slight golden reflections, enhanced by a dense and continuous perlage that highlights its elegance.

Nose

The aromatic profile is delicate but expressive: notes of white flowers, citrus, apple, and pear emerge, followed by nuances of hazelnut and bread crust due to the delicate aging on lees. The bouquet is harmonious and inviting, with a freshness that foreshadows its gustatory balance.

Palate

On the palate, it is creamy and velvety, with fine bubbles that caress the palate. The freshness and acidity, typical of Chardonnay, are perfectly balanced by a sensation of softness. The aromatic persistence is long, with fruity and slightly toasted hints.

Pairing with Franciacorta Satèn DOCG 'Tenuta Montenisa - Donna Cora' 2021 - Tenuta Montenisa

This Franciacorta Satèn is ideal as a refined aperitif and pairs perfectly with light and seafood dishes. Here are some recommended pairings:

• Fish appetizers such as salmon carpaccio or tartare;
• Delicate first courses, for example, asparagus or aromatic herb risotto;
• Steamed or grilled fish main courses;
• Fresh and mild-flavored goat cheeses.

Its elegance and the softness of its bubbles also make it an excellent companion for special occasions or refined toasts.

Storage and Aging – how to store Franciacorta Satèn DOCG 'Tenuta Montenisa - Donna Cora' 2021 - Tenuta Montenisa

To best preserve this wine, it is important to keep it in a cool, dark, and stable place, with a constant temperature around 10-12°C and bottles preferably laid horizontally. Although the structure of Franciacorta Satèn allows for a decent aging potential, it is advisable to consume it young, within 2-3 years of disgorgement, to fully appreciate its original fragrance and freshness. After opening, if not finished, it can be stored in the refrigerator with an airtight stopper for no more than a couple of days, thus maintaining its elegant and creamy character.