2019 Ronco Calino Franciacorta organic Brut Nature, Lombardia – buy online

WHO?

Ronco Calino is a wine producer that enjoys good fortune: it lies in one of the most felicitous sites in a growing area already renowned for high quality, Franciacorta. The “place where one’s heart rests” exists, and for Paolo Radici, wine-passionate industrialist, inspiration struck as he visited the magnificent residence, in a state of abandonment, of Arturo Benedetti Michelangeli, brilliant pianist of the 20th century. But to render Franciacorta truly unique, its producers gave themselves the mission of a rigorous production code, outdoing themselves in the creation of the Franciacorta method.

WHERE?

Franciacorta unites in one term a diversity of worlds: a growing area, a wine, a method.  Ronco Calino identified eight crus, two of which are in Provaglio d’Iseo and six adjacent to the winery: Cima Caprioli, Anfiteatro, Sottobosco, Palazzo, Pozzo e Tramonto. The crus are divided into 26 parcels, which are distinguished by soil, subsoil, slope, clone, and rootstock. Their north-facing exposure favours regular vine growth and crisp acidities in the clusters through the season. The vines average over 20 years of age. 12.4 ha of vineyard surround the mansion. In 1995. Franciacorta was granted DOCG status, as Italy’s only dry sparkling wine.

WHY?

A blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, coming from vines about 30 years old grown in organic farming. Only the free-run juice is extracted. Fermentation takes place in steel tanks, with a portion of the Chardonnay (30%) fermenting in French oak barrels. It ages for at least 48 months on the lees and an additional 6 months after disgorgement. The nose opens sharply with floral references to jasmine, marigold and acacia fruity notes of kiwi, late pear and white peach. Balsamic and slightly peppery, it recalls eucalyptus leaf, mango yogurt and hazelnut. The sip is of excellent texture and body, fresh and lively with a dry and savory, almost saline finish.

Wine Enthusiast – 95 pts