Franciacorta - Millesimato - Rizzini

Rizzini's Franciacorta DOCG Millesimato is the most convincing demonstration that Italy produces traditional-method sparkling wines capable of competing on equal terms with the finest French Champagnes. Rizzini is a winery in the Brescia area of Franciacorta that works with artisanal rigor and a clear vision: to produce high-quality Franciacorta while respecting the long aging times this production method requires, without commercial shortcuts.

The Millesimato - produced exclusively from grapes from a single exceptional vintage, selected only when climatic conditions guarantee the necessary quality - represents the pinnacle of Rizzini's production. The grapes are predominantly Chardonnay, either pure or with a small proportion of Pinot Noir, harvested at optimal ripeness and vinified separately to preserve the specific characteristics of the vintage. Secondary fermentation takes place in the bottle according to the Traditional Method, followed by aging on its own lees for at least 60 months - longer than the non-vintage wine and comparable to the great Prestige Cuvées of Champagne - developing the complex autolytic notes of brioche, bread dough, fresh yeast, and cheese rind that are the hallmark of great sparkling wines aged for a long time.

On the nose, it is elegant and layered: white peach, candied citrus, white flowers, toasted almond, fresh brioche, and a hint of chalky minerality reminiscent of the great white wines of Burgundy. On the palate, it is creamy and enveloping, with exceptionally fine, persistent bubbles, vibrant freshness that balances its roundness, and a long, sophisticated finish. The ideal choice for elegant toasts, important celebrations, or simply to surprise anyone who still believes that, when it comes to great sparkling wines, one should look only to France.