{"title":"Lombardy","description":"\u003cp\u003eLombardy runs from the Alps down to the River Po, and it produces some of Italy's most serious sparkling wine alongside a clutch of distinctive Alpine reds and lake-cooled whites. It is a region that rewards curiosity, with a spread of styles you will not find grouped together anywhere else in the country.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eFranciacorta, Italy's finest traditional-method sparkling wine\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMade near Lake Iseo, Franciacorta is the country's benchmark for bottle-fermented fizz. It follows the same traditional method as Champagne, with the second fermentation in the bottle and long ageing on the lees, built mainly on Chardonnay and Pinot Nero. The results are fine-beaded and creamy, with the softer Satèn style gentler still, and names like Ca' del Bosco and Bellavista set the standard. If the grape behind it appeals, our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/chardonnay\"\u003eChardonnay\u003c\/a\u003e and wider \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/sparkling-wine\"\u003esparkling wine\u003c\/a\u003e selections are the natural next step.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eAlpine Valtellina reds and crisp whites from Lake Garda\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eIn the far north, Valtellina grows Nebbiolo on steep terraces against the mountains, where the grape is known locally as Chiavennasca. The wines are perfumed and high-toned, lighter on their feet than Piedmont's, and the dried-grape Sforzato (or Sfursat) offers a richer, warming style from grapes left to raisin before fermentation. Down on Lake Garda, Lugana turns the Turbiana grape into fresh, mineral whites that age better than most expect. Follow the thread into our \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/nebbiolo\"\u003eNebbiolo\u003c\/a\u003e, \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/red-wine\"\u003ered wine\u003c\/a\u003e and \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/white-wine\"\u003ewhite wine\u003c\/a\u003e ranges, or browse the rest of \u003ca href=\"\/collections\/italy\"\u003eItaly\u003c\/a\u003e.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\n\u003ch2\u003eLombardy wine FAQ\u003c\/h2\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eWhat food pairs with Franciacorta?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eA fine all-rounder. Serve it with fried seafood, creamy risotto alla milanese, cured meats, or on its own as an aperitivo. The delicate bubbles and fresh acidity cut cleanly through rich, fatty dishes.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eHow is Valtellina Nebbiolo different from Barolo?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eSame grape, different mood. Grown on Alpine terraces, Chiavennasca gives lighter, more perfumed reds with bright acidity and finer tannins, so they drink well younger, though the best still reward a few years in the cellar.\u003c\/p\u003e\n\u003ch3\u003eIs Lugana worth cellaring?\u003c\/h3\u003e\n\u003cp\u003eMost are made for early drinking, fresh and citrussy. The best single-vineyard and riserva bottlings can develop a honeyed, nutty depth over five years or more.\u003c\/p\u003e","products":[{"product_id":"bellavista-alma-assemblage-1-nv-75-cl","title":"Bellavista Alma Assemblage 1 NV","description":"\u003cp\u003eBellavista Alma Assemblage NV is one of Italy’s benchmark sparkling wines, crafted in the heart of Franciacorta in Lombardy. This elegant Metodo Classico cuvée showcases Bellavista’s signature style: refined bubbles, layered complexity, and a vibrant, food‑friendly character that rivals top Champagne. Blending multiple vineyards, grape varieties, and reserve wines, Alma Assemblage captures the ‘soul’ of the estate in a consistently high‑quality, non‑vintage expression that helped put Franciacorta on the world fine‑wine map.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, Bellavista Alma Assemblage NV typically shows a bright, luminous straw‑yellow color with subtle golden highlights and a very fine, persistent perlage. The nose is generous yet precise, offering notes of ripe citrus, white flowers, green apple, and pear, layered with hints of toasted brioche, fresh almonds, and a delicate mineral undertone from the Franciacorta terroir.\n\nOn the palate, this is a beautifully balanced sparkling wine: creamy in texture, with a refined mousse and a lively, refreshing acidity. Flavors of lemon zest, crisp orchard fruits, a touch of stone fruit, and light pastry tones unfold gradually, supported by a clean mineral backbone and a long, harmonious finish. The non‑vintage Alma Assemblage is crafted for immediate enjoyment but will hold well for several years after release, gaining a little extra roundness and complexity with short‑term cellaring.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBellavista Alma Assemblage NV comes from the rolling hills of Franciacorta in Lombardy, near Lake Iseo, where glacial morainic soils rich in stones, sand, and limestone give natural freshness and finesse to the wines. The blend is predominantly Chardonnay, supported by Pinot Nero and a small proportion of Pinot Bianco, sourced from multiple estate vineyards to enhance complexity. Grapes are hand‑harvested in small crates to preserve their integrity and are carefully sorted before pressing. Fermentation takes place mostly in small oak barrels and stainless steel, with an important component of reserve wines from previous vintages used to build depth and a consistent house style. The wine then undergoes a second fermentation in bottle according to the traditional method and typically matures on the lees for well over the minimum appellation requirement, often around 30 months or more, before disgorgement and final release.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis refined Franciacorta is exceptionally versatile at the table. It pairs beautifully with seafood crudo, oysters, sushi, and delicate shellfish dishes, as well as carpaccio, light poultry, risotto, and soft cheeses such as burrata or fresh goat’s cheese. It also makes an ideal aperitif with charcuterie and can comfortably accompany an entire meal built around fish and vegetable dishes. Serve well‑chilled at around 6–8°C (43–46°F) in a tulip‑shaped sparkling wine glass to highlight its aromas and texture. Decanting is not necessary, but opening the bottle a few minutes before serving and allowing the wine to come slightly off fridge temperature will help the bouquet fully express itself.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBellavista is one of the most renowned producers in Franciacorta and a key pioneer in elevating Italian traditional‑method sparkling wine to international acclaim. Founded in the 1970s by Vittorio Moretti on the hillside of Bellavista in Erbusco, the estate has grown into a reference point for quality in Lombardy, known for meticulous vineyard work and a strong focus on terroir expression. Bellavista played a central role in defining the modern style of Franciacorta, combining extensive use of reserve wines, barrel fermentation, and long lees aging to create complex, age‑worthy sparkling wines. Over the years, the winery has earned numerous accolades from leading wine critics and guides, reinforcing its status as a flagship producer and an ambassador for Italian sparkling wine worldwide.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Bellavista","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54252884853073,"sku":"PS-15465935798652","price":27.14,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/wkldas.png?v=1783447589"},{"product_id":"1701-franciacorta-brut-nature","title":"1701 Franciacorta Brut Nature","description":"\u003cp\u003e1701 Franciacorta Brut Nature is a refined expression of Franciacorta, bringing together the structural elegance of Chardonnay and the character of Pinot Noir in a finely balanced sparkling wine. Crafted in Lombardy, it reflects both the precision of traditional winemaking and the quality of exceptional raw materials, making it a standout choice for lovers of dry, mineral-driven bubbles.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePale straw in the glass with a lively, persistent mousse, it shows a bright and elegant profile from the outset. The nose is fresh and expressive, with notes that suggest citrus, green apple, and subtle brioche-like nuance, supported by a clean mineral edge.\n\nOn the palate, the wine is dry, focused, and beautifully structured, with a full, rounded texture lifted by marked acidity. The finish is crisp and precise, leaving a refined impression of freshness and balance. While approachable now, it also has enough structure to develop gracefully over the medium term.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eProduced in Lombardy within the Franciacorta appellation, this wine benefits from the region’s cool climate and mineral-rich soils, which help preserve freshness and aromatic clarity. Chardonnay brings elegance and structure, while Pinot Noir contributes depth and personality. The Brut Nature style indicates very low dosage, allowing the purity of the fruit and the character of the terroir to come through clearly.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIdeal with oysters, shellfish, sashimi, light seafood dishes, or simply as an aperitif, this Franciacorta also pairs well with delicate white meats and fresh cheeses. Serve well chilled at around 6–8°C to highlight its freshness and finesse. Decanting is not necessary.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e1701 Franciacorta is a respected producer in one of Italy’s most celebrated sparkling wine regions, known for crafting wines that express both authenticity and precision. The estate has built its reputation on quality-driven Franciacorta with a clear sense of place, and its Brut Nature style showcases a commitment to purity, balance, and traditional craftsmanship.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"1701 Franciacorta","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255064351057,"sku":"XW-21378","price":27.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/1701-franciacorta-brut-nature_21378_1.jpg?v=1783456436"},{"product_id":"25zero14-gin-botanic-gold-edition-botanic-07l","title":"25Zero14 Gin Botanic Gold Edition Botanic 0.7L","description":"\u003cp\u003e25Zero14 Gin Botanic Gold Edition is a refined Italian gin from Lombardy, crafted to stand out with a bright botanical profile and a polished, premium presentation. As part of the growing wave of contemporary Italian gins, it reflects a modern approach to distillation while staying true to the country’s long tradition of aromatic spirits.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, this gin is expected to show a clear, pristine appearance with a lively, elegant character. The aroma typically opens with fresh juniper supported by herbal and citrus-driven botanicals, giving the nose a clean and expressive lift.\n\nOn the palate, it should feel crisp and well-balanced, with juniper at the core and layered notes of botanicals that add freshness, depth, and a subtle softness on the finish. Its style makes it well suited for cocktails, while also offering enough structure to be enjoyed in a simple serve. As with most quality gins, it is best enjoyed fresh and does not require aging.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eProduced in Lombardy, a region known for its diverse landscapes and strong food and beverage heritage, this gin likely draws on a selection of botanicals chosen to express a modern Italian identity. While detailed production information is limited, the name suggests a carefully distilled gin with an emphasis on botanical balance and a premium finishing style.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003e25Zero14 Gin Botanic Gold Edition works beautifully in a classic gin and tonic, as well as in martinis, negronis, or other spirit-forward cocktails where its botanical character can shine. Serve well chilled, ideally with a quality tonic and a garnish that complements the botanicals, such as citrus peel or fresh herbs. Decanting is not necessary; simply pour and serve.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Bottle Hero","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255064449361,"sku":"XW-52759","price":53.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/25zero14-botanic-gold-edition-botanic-gin-0-7l_52759_1_357b9197-19d5-426e-8942-98b5a27e3adf.webp?v=1783456437"},{"product_id":"25zero14-gin-mare-fuori-costiera-07l","title":"25Zero14 Gin Mare Fuori Costiera 0.7L","description":"\u003cp\u003eMare Fuori Costiera is a distinctive 100% Italian gin that brings together Tuscan juniper, Mediterranean sea water, and the bright citrus character of Amalfi Coast lemons. It stands out for its saline, coastal personality and its refined balance of botanicals, offering a fresh take on classic gin with a strong sense of place.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, it presents a clean, clear appearance that hints at its crisp style. The aroma opens with lifted juniper, lemon zest, and a subtle maritime salinity, followed by a fresh, herbal edge that gives it immediate charm.\n\nOn the palate, Mare Fuori Costiera is lively and expressive, combining juniper spice with vibrant citrus and a delicate salty note that adds depth and texture. The finish is clean, refreshing, and persistent, with enough structure to hold up beautifully in cocktails. While gin is typically enjoyed young for its freshness, this style is best appreciated for its immediate aromatic brightness rather than long aging.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCrafted in Lombardy, Mare Fuori Costiera draws its identity from carefully selected Tuscan juniper, crystal-clear Mediterranean sea water, and lemons from the Amalfi Coast, creating a gin with a distinctly Italian coastal character. The production focuses on preserving the purity of the ingredients and capturing a natural balance between botanicals, freshness, and mineral salinity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis gin is excellent in a classic gin and tonic, a Martini, or cocktails that benefit from a bright citrus and savory edge. It also pairs well with seafood, oysters, sushi, grilled prawns, and light Mediterranean dishes. Serve well chilled, ideally with premium tonic and a twist of lemon; decanting is not necessary.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Bottle Hero","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255064547665,"sku":"XW-56610","price":50.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/25zero14-mare-fuori-costiera-gin-0-7l_56610_1_c71d191b-0860-4f72-8b56-175c82870861.webp?v=1783456439"},{"product_id":"allegrini-lugana-oasi-mantellina-2024","title":"Allegrini Lugana Oasi Mantellina 2024","description":"\u003cp\u003eAllegrini Lugana Oasi Mantellina 2024 is a refined white wine that highlights the character of the Lugana appellation with a strong sense of place. Crafted by one of Italy’s most respected producers, it brings together freshness, elegance and a distinctly territorial identity rooted in Lombardy.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, it typically shows a bright straw-yellow color with lively reflections. The nose is delicate and expressive, offering fresh citrus, white flowers, green apple and subtle herbal nuances.\n\nOn the palate, it is crisp and well-balanced, with a clean mineral edge and a supple texture that gives the wine both energy and finesse. The finish is fresh and persistent, making it a wine that is enjoyable young, though it can develop additional complexity over the next 2–4 years.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eProduced in the Lugana DOC area of Lombardy, this wine reflects the region’s unique terroir, where clay-rich soils and the influence of Lake Garda help preserve freshness and aromatic precision. Turbiana is the dominant grape, complemented by Cortese, and the grapes are typically harvested at optimal ripeness to retain vibrancy and purity. Vinification is carried out with a focus on temperature-controlled fermentation to protect the wine’s delicate floral and fruit-driven character.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis Lugana pairs beautifully with seafood, grilled fish, shellfish, sushi and light pasta dishes, as well as fresh cheeses and vegetable-based starters. Serve well chilled, ideally around 8–10°C, to showcase its brightness and aromatic detail. Decanting is not necessary.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAllegrini is one of Italy’s most celebrated wine families, with a long-standing reputation for quality and innovation. While best known for its work in Veneto, the estate’s Lugana bottling demonstrates its ability to capture the identity of exceptional terroirs beyond its home region. The winery is widely recognized for producing wines of finesse, precision and strong regional character.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Allegrini","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255068741969,"sku":"XW-56522","price":17.5,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/allegrini-lugana-oasi-mantellina-2024_56522_1_9e65c39a-985b-4cb2-a663-a5050b81ff98.webp?v=1783456470"},{"product_id":"antica-distilleria-altavilla-grappa-di-moscato-riserva-6-anni-07l-2015","title":"Antica Distilleria Altavilla Grappa di Moscato Riserva (6 Anni) 0.7L 2015","description":"\u003cp\u003eAntica Distilleria Altavilla Grappa di Moscato Riserva (6 Anni) is a refined Italian grappa that captures the aromatic character of Moscato in an aged, elegant style. Distilled in Lombardy and rested for six years, it offers a more rounded, nuanced expression than younger grappe, making it an appealing choice for lovers of authentic after-dinner spirits with real depth.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, this riserva typically shows a clear to softly golden hue, reflecting its extended ageing in wood. The nose is fragrant and expressive, with Moscato’s signature floral lift joined by notes of dried fruit, honey, vanilla, and gentle spice from barrel ageing.\n\nOn the palate, it is smooth and warming, with a balanced interplay of sweetness, aromatic grape character, and oak-derived complexity. The finish is long and harmonious, leaving traces of dried apricot, citrus peel, and sweet spice. Thanks to its structure and ageing, it should hold its appeal well over time, especially when stored properly away from light and heat.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eProduced in Lombardy, this grappa is made from Moscato grape pomace, a variety prized for its highly aromatic profile. After distillation, the spirit is matured for six years, allowing it to gain softness, texture, and complexity while integrating the fresh fruit character with the influence of wood. The result is a more polished and layered grappa with a clear sense of place and varietal identity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBest enjoyed slowly at the end of a meal, this grappa pairs beautifully with dark chocolate, almond biscotti, fruit tarts, blue cheese, or simply as a digestif on its own. Serve slightly cool, ideally around 12–16°C, to let the aromas open up without muting the spirit’s depth. Decanting is not necessary, though a short rest in the glass can help reveal its full aromatic range.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003enull\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Bottle Hero","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255070675281,"sku":"XW-52931","price":44.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/antica-distilleria-altavilla-grappa-di-moscato-riserva-6-anni-2015_52931_1_f829cead-412d-4d99-9a16-f548afd41893.webp?v=1783456502"},{"product_id":"antica-fratta-franciacorta-essence-brut-2020","title":"Antica Fratta Franciacorta Essence Brut 2020","description":"\u003cp\u003eAntica Fratta Franciacorta Essence Brut 2020 is a polished expression of one of Italy’s most celebrated sparkling wine regions, bringing together Chardonnay and Pinot Noir in a style that balances elegance, depth, and freshness. With more than 36 months of ageing on the lees, it shows the kind of finesse and complexity that has made Franciacorta a benchmark for traditional-method sparkling wine in Italy.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, it typically shows a bright, refined golden color with a persistent, fine mousse. The nose is lifted and expressive, combining fruity and floral aromas with subtle notes of brioche and pastry from its extended lees aging.\n\nOn the palate, it is elegant and well balanced, with crisp acidity, creamy texture, and a layered profile that brings together citrus, orchard fruit, and delicate mineral nuance. The long lees contact adds complexity and depth while keeping the finish fresh and precise, giving it good potential for further short-term bottle development.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eProduced in Lombardy’s Franciacorta zone, this wine benefits from the region’s cool climate and morainic soils, which help preserve freshness and structure in the grapes. Chardonnay and Pinot Noir are harvested at optimal ripeness and vinified using the traditional method, with secondary fermentation in bottle followed by more than 36 months of ageing on the lees to build complexity and texture.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis Brut pairs beautifully with oysters, sushi, scallops, tempura, light seafood pasta, and delicate white meats such as chicken or veal. Serve well chilled, ideally around 6–8°C, and decanting is not recommended; instead, simply open it carefully and let it breathe briefly in the glass if desired.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAntica Fratta is a respected Franciacorta producer known for crafting elegant, terroir-driven sparkling wines with a strong focus on refinement and consistency. The estate has built a solid reputation in the region for combining traditional methods with a polished style, making it one of the names closely associated with quality Franciacorta.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Antica Fratta","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255070740817,"sku":"XW-54599","price":31.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/antica-fratta-franciacorta-essence-brut-2020_54599_1_0dba977e-cb79-458d-923b-6763867b0bd0.webp?v=1783456502"},{"product_id":"marchese-antinori-tenuta-montenisa-franciacorta-blanc-de-noir-conte-aymo-2020","title":"Marchese Antinori Tenuta Montenisa Franciacorta Blanc de Noir Conte Aymo 2020","description":"\u003cp\u003eAntinori Montenisa Conte Aymo Blanc de Noir Franciacorta 2020 is a refined Italian sparkling wine that showcases the elegance and depth of Pinot Noir in a pure, méthode traditionnelle style. Crafted in the prestigious Franciacorta region of Lombardy, it offers a luxurious alternative to Champagne with a distinctly Italian personality. This cuvée takes its name from Count Aymo, celebrating the historic Montenisa estate and the Antinori family’s centuries-long pursuit of excellence in fine wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, Conte Aymo Blanc de Noir 2020 typically displays a luminous, pale copper to onion-skin hue, reflecting its Pinot Noir origins, with a fine, persistent perlage that forms a delicate crown of bubbles. The nose is expressive and complex, offering notes of wild red berries, pomegranate, blood orange zest, and white flowers, intertwined with hints of brioche, toasted hazelnut, and a subtle mineral edge.\n\nOn the palate, this Franciacorta is dry, precise, and textural, with a creamy mousse that carries flavors of crunchy red apple, raspberry, citrus peel, and a touch of spice. The Pinot Noir lends structure and gentle tannic grip, balanced by vibrant acidity and a long, savory, mineral-driven finish. While already approachable and harmonious in its youth, the 2020 vintage has the concentration and backbone to evolve gracefully for another 3–6 years, developing more brioche, nutty, and honeyed nuances with time in bottle.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGrown in the gently rolling hills around Montenisa in Franciacorta, the grapes for Conte Aymo Blanc de Noir are sourced from carefully selected Pinot Noir vineyards rooted in morainic soils rich in stones, sand, and minerals, which contribute freshness and a marked saline character. Harvest is carried out by hand to preserve berry integrity, with strict selection both in the vineyard and at the winery. The base wines are produced via gentle pressing of whole clusters to extract only the finest must, followed by temperature-controlled fermentation in stainless steel (with a portion often aged on fine lees for added texture and complexity). The wine then undergoes secondary fermentation in bottle according to the traditional method, maturing on its lees in the cool cellars of Franciacorta for an extended period before disgorgement, allowing the mousse to refine and the bouquet to gain depth and complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eConte Aymo Blanc de Noir 2020 is a versatile partner at the table, pairing beautifully with refined antipasti, oysters, tuna tartare, and carpaccio of sea bass or salmon. Its structure and depth also make it superb with dishes like vitello tonnato, poultry in light cream sauces, mushroom risotto, and delicate pork or veal preparations, as well as aged cheeses and charcuterie. For optimal enjoyment, serve well-chilled at 8–10°C (46–50°F). A brief 10–15 minutes in the glass is sufficient for it to open up; extended decanting is not necessary, but pouring into large tulip-shaped sparkling wine glasses rather than narrow flutes will best showcase its aromas and complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMontenisa is the Franciacorta estate of the Antinori family, one of Italy’s most renowned and historic wine dynasties, whose winemaking roots date back to 1385. Located near the village of Calino in Lombardy, the Montenisa estate is dedicated to producing high-quality traditional-method sparkling wines that express the elegance and finesse of Franciacorta’s terroir. Under the guidance of Antinori, Montenisa has become a respected reference for Italian sparkling wine, helping elevate Franciacorta’s international reputation as Italy’s answer to Champagne. The estate is known for its meticulous vineyard management, focus on Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, and a portfolio of cuvées that consistently garner critical acclaim for their precision, balance, and age‑worthy character.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Montenisa (Antinori)","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255070839121,"sku":"XW-53325","price":50.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/antinori-montenisa-conte-aymo-blanc-de-noir-franciacorta-2020_53325_1_fb114b82-e0a9-48ec-a4e3-e8357c9a8922.webp?v=1783456505"},{"product_id":"arpepe-valtellina-superiore-sassella-riserva-nuova-regina-2018","title":"Ar.Pe.Pe Valtellina Superiore Sassella Riserva Nuova Regina 2018","description":"\u003cp\u003eAr.Pe.Pe’s Valtellina Superiore Sassella Riserva Nuova Regina 2018 is a striking expression of mountain Nebbiolo, grown in one of the most demanding and rewarding sites in Lombardy. “Nuova Regina” – the “New Queen” – comes from a steep, stone-filled vineyard near Rocce Rosse, where old vines and meticulous hand work help produce a Riserva of rare depth, elegance, and longevity. Like the best wines from Valtellina, it carries real historical weight: a style shaped by centuries of heroic hillside viticulture and patience in the cellar.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eExpect a wine with a translucent ruby-garnet hue typical of Nebbiolo, bright and refined rather than opaque or heavy. Aromatically, it should offer layers of wild berries, dried roses, alpine herbs, earth, spice, and mineral notes, with the kind of complexity that unfolds slowly in the glass.\n\nOn the palate, Nuova Regina is usually taut, precise, and beautifully structured, with firm but polished tannins, lively acidity, and a core of red fruit, savory spice, and stony minerality. As a Riserva from old vines, it is built for aging, and the 2018 vintage should reward cellar time with added harmony, nuance, and depth over the next decade or more.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis wine comes from a high, exceptionally steep Sassella vineyard in Valtellina, where the soils are dominated by rock and very little earth, creating naturally low yields and intense concentration. The old-vine parcels are harvested entirely by hand, a necessity on these terraced slopes, and the cellar work is equally careful to preserve purity, finesse, and the character of the site.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eA superb match for braised beef, ossobuco, game birds, mushroom risotto, and aged mountain cheeses. Serve at around 16–18°C and consider decanting for 1–2 hours, especially if drinking young, to allow the aromatics and structure to open fully.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAr.Pe.Pe is one of the most respected names in Valtellina, known for championing traditional Nebbiolo from this dramatic Alpine region in northern Lombardy. The winery has earned acclaim for its dedication to terraced vineyards, old vines, and long-lived, terroir-driven wines that showcase the unique identity of Valtellina Superiore and its historic crus.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ar.Pe.Pe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255071363409,"sku":"XW-55371","price":92.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/ar-pe-pe-valtellina-superiore-sassella-nuova-regina-riserva-2018_55371_1_7ae5a6bd-ed89-4b5c-8fea-c60eac8c9682.webp?v=1783456515"},{"product_id":"arpepe-valtellina-superiore-sassella-riserva-rocce-rosse-2018","title":"Ar.Pe.Pe Valtellina Superiore Sassella Riserva Rocce Rosse 2018","description":"\u003cp\u003eAr.Pe.Pe Sassella Rocce Rosse Valtellina Superiore Riserva 2018 is one of the purest, most refined expressions of mountain Nebbiolo you can find. Sourced from the prized Sassella subzone in Valtellina, this Riserva marries alpine freshness with remarkable depth and elegance. Crafted by a family with five generations of experience, Rocce Rosse is considered the beating heart of Ar.Pe.Pe’s range and a benchmark for the region.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, the 2018 Rocce Rosse shows a luminous, transparent garnet hue with brick-tinged edges that hint at its traditional, long-aging style. The nose is beautifully lifted and complex, offering wild strawberry, dried cherry, rose petals, and violet, layered with notes of blood orange zest, mountain herbs, tobacco leaf, and subtle spice.\n\nOn the palate, this is precise and finely etched rather than heavy, with a silky, almost weightless texture that gradually reveals depth and intensity. Red berries, pomegranate, and sour cherry are wrapped in savory nuances of dried flowers, tea leaf, bitter almond, and a gentle mineral salinity from the rocky terraces. The tannins are ultra-fine yet firm, providing a classical Nebbiolo backbone, while the racy acidity keeps everything vibrant and mouthwatering. Already beautifully expressive, the 2018 has the structure and balance to age gracefully for 15–20 years or more under good cellaring conditions, gaining further complexity and tertiary notes over time.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eRocce Rosse is sourced from steep, high-altitude terraces in the Sassella cru of Valtellina, where Nebbiolo (locally known as Chiavennasca) grows on poor, rocky, south-facing slopes carved into the mountainside. The dramatic alpine terroir—cool nights, strong diurnal shifts, and mineral-rich, sandy soils over rock—gives the wine its tension, perfume, and distinctive mineral edge. Harvesting is done entirely by hand due to the extreme slopes, with meticulous selection of bunches in the vineyard and again in the cellar. Ar.Pe.Pe follows a rigorously traditional approach: long, gentle macerations in large wooden vats, spontaneous or carefully managed fermentations, and extended aging in large, old Slavonian oak botti before further refinement in bottle. This slow, patient élevage allows Nebbiolo’s delicate aromatics and finely chiseled tannins to fully develop without being overshadowed by new oak.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis elegant mountain Nebbiolo is superb with refined, savory dishes such as veal osso buco, braised lamb shank, roasted game birds, or a classic mushroom risotto. It also pairs beautifully with aged Alpine cheeses, truffle dishes, and slow-cooked ragù over polenta or fresh egg pasta. Serve at 16–18°C (60–64°F) in large Burgundy or Nebbiolo-style stemware to allow the aromatics to fully open. Decanting for 1–2 hours is recommended in its youth to soften the tannins and release the bouquet, while older bottles may need a gentler, shorter decant to separate sediment without losing delicacy.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAr.Pe.Pe (short for ARnoldo PElizzatti PErego) is one of Valtellina’s most revered, traditional producers, with a family history in the region that spans five generations. Based in the alpine heart of Lombardy, the estate has become synonymous with classically styled, long-lived Nebbiolo from heroic, terraced vineyards that cling to the steep slopes above the Adda River. While many regions have modernized stylistically, Ar.Pe.Pe has steadfastly maintained an old-school approach: long macerations, large old casks, and extended bottle aging that echo the great traditional Barolo and Barbaresco wines, but with a distinctly mountain character. Today, Ar.Pe.Pe is widely recognized as a reference point for Valtellina, consistently earning international acclaim and helping to restore the region’s reputation for producing some of Italy’s most elegant and age-worthy Nebbiolo.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ar.Pe.Pe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255071461713,"sku":"XW-55369","price":92.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/ar-pe-pe-sassella-rocce-rosse-valtellina-superiore-riserva-2018_55369_1_96b8c7ca-1251-4838-827c-feeb0b7e42b6.webp?v=1783456515"},{"product_id":"arpepe-valtellina-superiore-grumello-nebbiolo-rocca-de-piro-2022","title":"Ar.Pe.Pe Valtellina Superiore Grumello Nebbiolo Rocca de Piro 2022","description":"\u003cp\u003eAr.Pe.Pe Grumello Rocca de Piro Valtellina Superiore is a finely etched, alpine expression of Nebbiolo, known locally as Chiavennasca. Grown on steep, terraced vineyards overlooking the historic Castel Grumello, this wine captures the elegance and tension that only high-altitude mountain viticulture can deliver. Named after the De Piro family, who owned the twin fortresses in the 14th century, it offers a beautiful bridge between Valtellina’s medieval heritage and a very contemporary sense of finesse.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, Grumello Rocca de Piro shows a luminous, transparent ruby garnet hue, typical of mountain Nebbiolo. The nose is precise and fragrant, with notes of crushed red cherry, wild strawberry and pomegranate layered over rose petals, violet, dried herbs, and hints of sweet spice and stone dust.\n\nOn the palate, it is vibrant and finely structured, with a spine of fresh acidity and ultra-fine, chalky tannins. Flavors of red currant, sour cherry and blood orange peel mingle with nuances of alpine herbs, licorice root and a subtle savory mineral note that speaks clearly of its steep, rocky origins. The finish is long, lifted and mouthwatering, promising further complexity with time. While already approachable in its youth with a short aeration, this Valtellina Superiore has the balance and structure to age gracefully for 8–12 years, gaining more tertiary notes of dried flowers, underbrush and truffle.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Grumello vineyards sit on sun-exposed, stone-terraced slopes high above the town of Sondrio in Lombardy’s Valtellina, facing predominantly south and southeast. Here, Nebbiolo (Chiavennasca) grows in poor, sandy and rocky soils derived from granite and schist, which encourage deep root systems and naturally low yields. Ar.Pe.Pe harvests by hand, often in multiple passes, to ensure optimal ripeness across these dramatic, hard-to-work terraces. Grapes are carefully sorted and traditionally vinified with extended, gentle macerations to extract fine tannins rather than raw power. Fermentation typically takes place in large wooden vats with native yeasts, followed by aging in large neutral botti and bottle, allowing the delicate aromatics and mineral character to remain front and center without overt oak influence.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis elegant, high-altitude Nebbiolo pairs beautifully with classic Northern Italian dishes such as saffron risotto, mushroom tagliatelle, polenta with braised veal or beef, and game birds like guinea fowl or duck. It also works well with alpine cheeses—Taleggio, Bitto, or aged Fontina—along with charcuterie and truffle-accented dishes. Serve at 16–18°C (60–65°F) to highlight its aromatic lift and fine structure. A brief decant of 30–60 minutes helps the wine open up its floral and spicy nuances, especially in its first few years after release.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAr.Pe.Pe (short for Arturo Pelizzatti Perego) is one of Valtellina’s benchmark producers and a passionate guardian of traditional, mountain Nebbiolo. Founded in the 1980s by Arturo Pelizzatti Perego, the estate revived a historic family legacy, focusing on painstaking work in the heroic, hand-tended terraces of Sassella, Grumello and Inferno. Today, the Pelizzatti Perego family is widely respected for crafting some of the most refined and terroir-transparent Nebbiolos in Lombardy, using long macerations, large neutral casks and patient aging. Their wines have become reference points for Valtellina, showcasing the region’s capacity to rival more famous Nebbiolo appellations with a uniquely alpine, mineral-driven elegance.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ar.Pe.Pe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255071494481,"sku":"XW-54582","price":49.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/ar-pe-pe-grumello-rocca-de-piro-valtellina-superiore-nebbiolo-2022_54582_1_0c5edecb-e1e9-4aa6-939c-4737322db95c.webp?v=1783456516"},{"product_id":"arpepe-valtellina-superiore-sassella-riserva-ultimi-raggi-2018","title":"Ar.Pe.Pe Valtellina Superiore Sassella Riserva Ultimi Raggi 2018","description":"\u003cp\u003eAr.Pe.Pe’s Valtellina Superiore Sassella Riserva Ultimi Raggi 2018 is a finely sculpted Nebbiolo from the dramatic terraced slopes of Lombardy, capturing both the elegance and mountain energy that make Valtellina so distinctive. As a riserva, it offers added depth, precision, and aging dimension, while remaining true to the graceful, perfumed style that has made Ar.Pe.Pe one of the region’s most revered producers.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, it typically shows a bright garnet hue with subtle brick-tinged reflections beginning to emerge with age. The nose is lifted and complex, with aromas of sour cherry, dried rose petals, wild berries, spices, herbs, and hints of earth, mineral smoke, and undergrowth.\n\nOn the palate, it is firm yet refined, with the taut structure Nebbiolo is known for, supported by vivid acidity and fine-grained tannins. Expect a layered profile of red fruit, savory alpine herbs, and mineral tension, finishing long and precise. This is a wine built for patience and will continue to develop beautifully over time.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSassella is one of the most prized subzones of Valtellina Superiore, where Nebbiolo thrives on steep, terraced vineyards planted on rocky, well-drained soils in a cool Alpine-influenced climate. The challenging terrain encourages low yields and naturally concentrated fruit, while careful hand-harvesting is essential on these slopes. Ar.Pe.Pe is known for traditional, gentle vinification that emphasizes transparency, fragrance, and the unique expression of site, followed by extended maturation to bring harmony and complexity to the wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis wine pairs beautifully with braised beef, game, roasted lamb, mushroom dishes, aged cheeses, and alpine-inspired cuisine. Serve at around 16–18°C, and consider decanting for 1–2 hours if opening young to allow the aromatics and structure to open fully.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAr.Pe.Pe is one of the benchmark estates of Valtellina, founded by the Pelizzatti Perego family and widely respected for preserving the heritage of Nebbiolo in Lombardy. The winery has earned a strong reputation for producing age-worthy, highly expressive wines that showcase the region’s steep mountain vineyards and historic terraces, making it a standard-bearer for traditional Valtellina winemaking.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ar.Pe.Pe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255071527249,"sku":"XW-55372","price":92.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/ar-pe-pe-valtellina-superiore-sassella-riserva-ultimi-raggi-2018_55372_1_cead4bc1-f407-46ea-85cf-b87d7ef81625.webp?v=1783456516"},{"product_id":"arpepe-valtellina-superiore-nebbiolo-sassella-stella-retica-2022","title":"Ar.Pe.Pe Valtellina Superiore Nebbiolo Sassella Stella Retica 2022","description":"\u003cp\u003eAr.Pe.Pe’s Valtellina Superiore Nebbiolo Sassella Stella Retica 2022 is a striking mountain Nebbiolo that captures the energy and elegance of Lombardy’s alpine vineyards. Taut, refined and quietly expressive, it offers a vivid sense of place with the kind of finesse that makes Sassella one of Valtellina’s most compelling crus.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, it typically shows a translucent ruby hue with a graceful, lifted profile rather than deep colour. The nose leans toward red cherries, wild berries, rose petal, alpine herbs and a distinct mineral edge, with subtle earthy and spicy nuances emerging with air.\n\nOn the palate, it is tense yet supple, with bright acidity, fine-grained tannins and a cool, savoury finish that reflects its mountain origins. The wine combines precision with charm, and while already approachable, it should gain additional depth and complexity with time in bottle.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSourced from the Sassella zone in Valtellina, where steep terraced vineyards sit on rocky, sun-exposed slopes in Lombardy, this wine reflects a distinctly alpine terroir. The grapes are typically harvested by hand due to the challenging terrain, and vinification is handled carefully to preserve the delicacy and aromatic purity of Nebbiolo grown at altitude.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis is an excellent match for game birds, roasted poultry, mushroom risotto, braised veal, or alpine cheeses. Serve slightly cool, around 16–18°C, and consider a brief decant if drinking young to allow its aromatic detail and structure to open up.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAr.Pe.Pe. is one of the great names of Valtellina, a family-run producer that has helped preserve and elevate the reputation of Nebbiolo in Lombardy’s mountain valleys. Known for its meticulous farming and benchmark expressions of terroir, the estate is widely respected for wines that balance tradition, precision and a strong sense of place.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ar.Pe.Pe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255071560017,"sku":"XW-54584","price":49.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/ar-pe-pe-valtellina-superiore-sassella-stella-retica-nebbiolo-2022_54584_1_cf2a7cf3-4036-4086-b93d-038b79b4b22e.webp?v=1783456517"},{"product_id":"arpepe-valtellina-superiore-inferno-nebbiolo-fiamme-antiche-2022","title":"Ar.Pe.Pe Valtellina Superiore Inferno Nebbiolo Fiamme Antiche 2022","description":"\u003cp\u003eAr.Pe.Pe Valtellina Superiore Inferno Fiamme Antiche Nebbiolo 2022 is a striking mountain red that captures the dramatic character of Valtellina’s steep, sun‑drenched terraces. Sourced from the famed Inferno subzone, this wine marries Nebbiolo’s elegance with the heat radiating off the granite cliffs that inspired its name. The result is a refined, alpine expression of Nebbiolo that stands apart from its Piedmontese cousins, with a history deeply rooted in heroic viticulture on near-vertical slopes.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, Fiamme Antiche 2022 shows a luminous, transparent ruby red, reminiscent of classic Nebbiolo but with a vivid, almost ‘racing red’ hue that calls to mind the legendary Maranello color. The nose opens with lifted aromas of alpine herbs, wild rose, dried cherry, and redcurrant, layered with hints of spice, orange peel, and a subtle mineral smokiness that evokes sun-warmed stone.\n\nOn the palate, the wine is finely etched and graceful rather than powerful, with precise red fruit—cherry, raspberry, and red plum—framed by very fine, polished tannins. A lively, mountain freshness runs through the core, giving it delicious drinkability and length. Notes of herbs, tea leaf, and a stony, saline edge linger on the finish. While beautifully approachable in its youth, the structure and acidity suggest a solid aging potential of 8–12 years from the vintage, during which time the tannins will further melt and more complex tertiary notes of dried flowers, forest floor, and leather will emerge.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe fruit for Fiamme Antiche comes exclusively from the steep, sun-exposed slopes of Poggiridenti in the Inferno subzone of Valtellina Superiore, where vines cling to terraced granite and sandy soils at altitude. This warm, radiant terroir—where the rock face absorbs and reflects heat—helps Nebbiolo ripen fully while retaining a distinctive alpine freshness. Harvest is carried out by hand due to the dramatic gradients, with small crates used to preserve fruit integrity. In the cellar, Ar.Pe.Pe follows a traditional, low‑intervention approach: gentle crushing, long macerations to extract fine tannins rather than power, and aging in large neutral wood and bottle to highlight the purity of the Nebbiolo and the character of the Inferno terroir, rather than overt oak influence.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis is a superb partner for refined yet comforting dishes: think braised veal or beef, roasted lamb, game birds, mushroom risotto, polenta with slow-cooked ragù, or alpine cheeses such as Bitto, Taleggio, and aged cow’s milk tommes. Its freshness and fine tannins also make it surprisingly versatile with lighter fare like grilled salmon, charcuterie, and earthy vegetable dishes. Serve at 16–18°C (about 60–64°F) to emphasize its aromatic complexity and elegance. For the 2022 vintage, a brief decant of 30–45 minutes is recommended to allow the floral and herbal notes to fully unfold, while older bottles may benefit from a gentler, shorter aeration.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAr.Pe.Pe (short for Arturo Pelizzatti Perego) is one of Valtellina’s benchmark estates, renowned for championing a traditional, terroir-driven style of mountain Nebbiolo—locally known as Chiavennasca. The family has been cultivating these dramatic terraces in Lombardy for generations, helping to secure Valtellina’s reputation as one of Italy’s most distinctive high-altitude wine regions. Ar.Pe.Pe is especially respected for its meticulous vineyard work on steep slopes, long and patient élevage, and an unwavering commitment to finesse over power. Their wines regularly feature in top restaurant lists and critical reviews, and they are widely considered among the finest interpreters of Nebbiolo outside Piedmont, with their Inferno bottlings particularly celebrated for their intensity and character.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ar.Pe.Pe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255071658321,"sku":"XW-54390","price":49.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/ar-pe-pe-valtellina-superiore-inferno-fiamme-antiche-nebbiolo-2022_54390_1_c4824b49-22d1-44a5-bceb-dab555319c08.webp?v=1783456518"},{"product_id":"arpepe-valtellina-superiore-inferno-sesto-canto-riserva-2018","title":"Ar.Pe.Pe Valtellina Superiore Inferno Sesto Canto Riserva 2018","description":"\u003cp\u003eAr.Pe.Pe’s Valtellina Superiore Inferno Sesto Canto Riserva 2018 is a striking expression of Nebbiolo from one of Lombardy’s most dramatic mountain terroirs. Crafted from hillside vineyards in the renowned Inferno subzone, it combines tension, perfume, and mineral depth with the kind of character that only high-altitude Valtellina can deliver. Inspired by Arturo’s passion for rally racing and the wild energy of this landscape, it carries both a sense of place and a powerful personal story.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, it typically shows a translucent garnet hue with brick-tinged reflections, hinting at its Nebbiolo lineage and mountain finesse. The nose is expected to be highly aromatic, with red cherry, wild berries, dried rose, alpine herbs, spice, and subtle earthy and mineral nuances.\n\nOn the palate, this is likely to be precise and structured, with firm but refined tannins, vibrant acidity, and a savory core that reflects the rugged Inferno slopes. The finish should be long and mineral-driven, with enough backbone to support further bottle age; like many serious Valtellina Riserva wines, it has strong aging potential and will likely gain complexity over time.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe vineyards sit around 450 meters above sea level in the third curve of the so-called Inferno Circuit, an evocative site whose steep, dramatic slopes help shape the wine’s intense personality. Valtellina’s alpine terroir, with its stony soils and pronounced diurnal shifts, is ideal for Nebbiolo, allowing slow ripening and the development of aromatic detail. The Riserva designation suggests careful selection and extended maturation before release, with vinification aimed at preserving purity, structure, and the distinctive mountain character of the fruit.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis wine pairs beautifully with richly flavored dishes such as braised veal, osso buco, game birds, roast lamb, mushroom risotto, and aged cheeses. Serve at 16–18°C, and consider decanting for 1–2 hours if drinking young to help the aromatics open and the tannins soften.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAr.Pe.Pe. is one of the reference producers in Valtellina, celebrated for its traditional, terroir-focused approach to Nebbiolo from the steep mountain vineyards of Lombardy. The estate has earned a strong reputation for wines that balance elegance, longevity, and a deep sense of place, helping define the region on the international stage. Its commitment to classic methods and meticulous vineyard work has made it a benchmark for Valtellina Superiore and Riserva bottlings.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ar.Pe.Pe","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255071691089,"sku":"XW-55370","price":92.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/ar-pe-pe-valtellina-superiore-inferno-sesto-canto-riserva-2018_55370_1_07f79309-a7ca-4903-b299-b4830c7aef1f.webp?v=1783456519"},{"product_id":"avanzi-antitesi-rosato-2022","title":"Avanzi Antitesi Rosato 2022","description":"\u003cp\u003eAvanzi Antitesi Rosato 2022 is a characterful Italian rosé that blends innovation with deep respect for its lakeside terroir. Crafted from Groppello Gentile and Barbera in the heart of Lombardy’s Valtènesi area, it offers a rosé style that is both juicy and structured, with unusual aging potential. Named “Antitesi” (Antithesis), this cuvée embodies the estate’s vision of a rosé that goes beyond simple summer refreshment to become a serious, gastronomic wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, Antitesi Rosato 2022 shows a luminous, pale to medium salmon-pink hue with delicate copper highlights, hinting at both freshness and depth. The nose is refined yet expressive, offering notes of wild strawberries, blood orange and pomegranate, layered with hints of rose petals, Mediterranean herbs and a subtle saline minerality that recalls its proximity to Lake Garda.\n\nOn the palate, this rosé is immediately juicy and inviting, with vibrant red berry fruit, citrus zest and a touch of white peach. The extended aging on the fine lees (“on the sediment” for 270 nights) gives the wine a graceful softness and a supple, almost creamy texture that beautifully balances its lively acidity. A gentle spice note and a long, savory, mineral finish underline its serious structure and potential. Unlike many rosés that are best drunk right away, Antitesi is built to evolve: it can be enjoyed in its youth for its brightness, but also has the capacity to develop added complexity over the next 2–4 years.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe grapes for Antitesi Rosato 2022 come from vineyards in the Valtènesi zone of Lombardy, an area overlooking Lake Garda known for its mild, ventilated climate and glacially influenced, morainic soils rich in stones and minerals. These conditions favor slow, even ripening and naturally good acidity—ideal for a finely structured rosé. Groppello Gentile and Barbera are harvested at optimal ripeness, typically by careful hand selection to preserve the integrity of the berries. The must is gently pressed with limited skin contact to obtain the desired color and aromatic profile, followed by a controlled, cool fermentation to preserve delicate fruit and floral notes. After fermentation, the wine is left to mature on its lees for an impressive 270 nights, with periodic bâtonnage (lees stirring) to build texture, complexity and longevity before bottling.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAntitesi Rosato 2022 is a versatile food wine that shines alongside Mediterranean-inspired cuisine. Pair it with grilled prawns, seafood risotto, lake fish, tuna tartare or herb-roasted chicken, as well as charcuterie, prosciutto crudo, caprese salad and light pasta dishes with tomatoes or shellfish. It also complements sushi and mildly spiced Asian dishes where freshness and texture are key. Serve chilled at around 10–12 °C (50–54 °F) to highlight its aromatics and balance. While decanting is not essential, a brief 10–15 minutes in the glass allows the wine’s softer, lees-derived nuances to fully open up.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAvanzi is a family-run estate rooted on the shores of Lake Garda in Lombardy, where it has been cultivating vines and olive trees for generations. The winery is closely associated with the Valtènesi area, known for its distinctive Groppello-based wines and an elegant, mineral-driven style that reflects the lake’s moderating influence. Over time, Avanzi has gained recognition for combining traditional local varieties and know-how with a forward-looking approach to winemaking. Wines like Antitesi Rosato showcase the producer’s ambition to elevate rosé from the region, demonstrating that Valtènesi can deliver rosés with both charm and serious aging potential, further cementing Avanzi’s reputation as a quality benchmark in the area.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Avanzi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255072608593,"sku":"XW-49306","price":30.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/avanzi-antitesi-rosato-2022_49306_1_b4eb4433-3b4a-453a-9144-c2afa8aad162.webp?v=1783456533"},{"product_id":"ballabio-farfalla-pinot-nero-cave-privee-metodo-classico-extra-brut-2015","title":"Ballabio Farfalla Pinot Nero Cave Privee Metodo Classico Extra Brut 2015","description":"\u003cp\u003eBallabio Farfalla Pinot Nero Cave Privée Metodo Classico Extra Brut 2015 is a rare, cellar‑selection Blanc de Noirs from the hills of Oltrepò Pavese in Lombardy. Crafted exclusively from Pinot Nero and produced in limited quantities, it captures the purest expression of this noble grape in a refined, gastronomic sparkling wine. Awarded “Årets Bobler” by Gambero Rosso, Cave Privée stands as one of Italy’s most acclaimed sparkling wines, originally reserved for the estate’s own private cellar before being shared with discerning drinkers.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, the 2015 Cave Privée shows a luminous straw to pale gold hue with fine, persistent bubbles forming an elegant, creamy mousse. The nose is refined and layered: ripe orchard fruits (pear, golden apple) and white peach intertwine with notes of fresh brioche, toasted hazelnut, citrus zest and delicate floral tones, supported by subtle mineral and chalky nuances from long lees aging.\n\nOn the palate, it is dry and incisive, as an Extra Brut should be, yet beautifully textured. The Pinot Nero brings structure and depth, with flavours of baked apple, lemon curd, crushed almonds and a touch of dried flowers, all riding on a mouth‑watering acidity and a long, saline finish. The dosage is kept low to let the terroir and the grape speak clearly, giving a wine that is both precise and complex. Thanks to its meticulous traditional‑method élevage and the naturally firm backbone of Pinot Nero, this 2015 vintage has excellent aging potential, continuing to gain complexity and tertiary notes of toast, pastry and honey over the next 5–8 years and beyond, if well cellared.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFarfalla Cave Privée is born in the rolling hills around Casteggio in Oltrepò Pavese, Lombardy’s historic heartland for Pinot Nero and traditional‑method sparkling wines. Here, calcareous clay and marl soils, combined with significant day‑night temperature swings, lend both ripeness and tension to the fruit. Grapes are hand‑harvested at carefully chosen maturity levels to preserve acidity and aromatic finesse, then gently pressed to obtain only the purest must from Pinot Nero for this Blanc de Noirs. Fermentation takes place in temperature‑controlled tanks, followed by an extended period of bottle fermentation on the lees—far longer than the legal minimum—to build texture, complexity and a fine, persistent perlage. Disgorgement is carried out with a very low dosage, resulting in an Extra Brut style that faithfully reflects the character of the vintage and the house’s “private cellar” philosophy.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis refined Metodo Classico is a versatile partner at the table, ideal with oysters, scallops, sashimi and crudo, as well as delicate fish tartare and caviar. It also shines with tempura, vegetable fritto misto, poultry terrines, veal carpaccio, and mildly aged cheeses such as Taleggio or young Comté. Serve well‑chilled at 8–10 °C in a white wine glass or large tulip to highlight its aromatic complexity and texture. A brief 10–15 minutes of air in the glass, or a short, careful decant into a chilled carafe for mature bottles, can help the wine open up and reveal its full spectrum of aromas.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFounded in Oltrepò Pavese, Ballabio is among the historic names that helped shape Lombardy’s reputation for high‑quality, traditional‑method sparkling wines, with a particular focus on Pinot Nero. Over the decades, the estate has honed its craft in Metodo Classico, becoming a reference point for Blanc de Noirs in the region. Cave Privée was originally conceived as an internal project—a archive of the best vintages set aside to track the evolution of the house’s top Pinot Nero cuvées. The decision to release this wine in limited quantities, after it was distinguished as “Årets Bobler” by influential Italian guide Gambero Rosso, marked Ballabio’s commitment to sharing its most personal and age‑worthy expression with a broader audience of enthusiasts and collectors, further cementing its status among Italy’s leading sparkling wine producers.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ballabio","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255073067345,"sku":"XW-39271","price":103.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/ballabio-farfalla-pinot-nero-cave-privee-metodo-classico-extra-brut-2015_39271_1.jpg?v=1783456540"},{"product_id":"barone-pizzini-franciacorta-saten-2021","title":"Barone Pizzini Franciacorta Saten 2021","description":"\u003cp\u003eBarone Pizzini Franciacorta Satèn 2021 is a refined sparkling wine that showcases the softer, silkier side of Franciacorta. Sourced from vineyards over twenty years old, it combines Chardonnay’s elegance with a distinctive mineral backbone, making it a particularly оригинal expression in its category.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, it typically shows a bright straw-gold color with a fine, persistent mousse. The nose opens with citrus, white flowers, and subtle ripe orchard fruit, supported by delicate bread-dough nuances and a clean mineral edge.\n\nOn the palate, Satèn is known for its creamy, velvety texture and polished balance, with fresh citrus notes, gentle richness, and a long, saline finish. It is a wine that feels both precise and expressive, with good cellaring potential over the next few years, though it is already highly appealing for early enjoyment.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis Franciacorta comes from mature vineyards in Lombardy, where the older vines contribute depth, concentration, and a naturally refined profile. The Chardonnay grapes are selected to emphasize elegance and texture, and the Satèn style is crafted to deliver a smoother, more supple sparkling wine expression. Careful vinification preserves the wine’s freshness, fine bubbles, and signature mineral character.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBarone Pizzini Franciacorta Satèn 2021 pairs beautifully with oysters, scallops, sushi, light seafood dishes, and delicate white meats. It also works well with creamy risottos and mild cheeses. Serve well chilled at 6–8°C, and decanting is not necessary.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBarone Pizzini is one of the historic and highly respected names in Franciacorta, known for helping define the region’s reputation for premium sparkling wine. The estate has built its standing through a focus on quality, precision, and a strong connection to terroir. It is especially admired for producing elegant, distinctive wines that reflect both tradition and a modern, sustainable approach to winemaking.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Barone Pizzini","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255073788241,"sku":"XW-55303","price":36.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/barone-pizzini-franciacorta-saten-2021_55303_1_f887f524-c902-4bc1-93b9-3503efe225e5.webp?v=1783456548"},{"product_id":"bellavista-franciacorta-vittorio-moretti-dosaggio-zero-riserva-2016","title":"Bellavista Franciacorta Vittorio Moretti Dosaggio Zero Riserva 2016","description":"\u003cp\u003eBellavista Franciacorta Vittorio Moretti Dosaggio Zero Riserva 2016 is one of the estate’s most rare and ambitious sparkling wines, produced only in the finest vintages. Crafted as a tribute to founder Vittorio Moretti, it captures the essence of the best crus in Franciacorta with a strikingly pure, uncompromising style. With no dosage added and extended aging, this 2016 Riserva offers a precise, terroir-driven expression that stands among the region’s most refined wines.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, this Franciacorta shows a luminous, intense straw-yellow color with golden highlights and an ultra-fine, persistent perlage. The nose is complex and layered, opening with notes of fresh citrus zest, Williams pear, and crunchy green apple, followed by nuances of toasted brioche, roasted hazelnut, acacia blossom, and delicate hints of flint and chalk.\n\nOn the palate, the Dosaggio Zero style comes through in its remarkable tension and precision. The attack is dry and vertical, with a vibrant acidity that lifts flavors of lemon cream, white peach, and quince, wrapped in savory, mineral-driven undertones. Subtle notes of honeycomb, pastry, and sweet spices emerge with air, balanced by a clean, saline finish that feels both long and sculpted. Thanks to its average seven years of maturation before release, this 2016 Riserva is already beautifully integrated, yet it has the structure and freshness to evolve gracefully for 8–12 more years in a proper cellar, developing deeper nuttiness and complexity over time.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSourced from some of Franciacorta’s most prized hillside crus—Erbusco, Nigoline, Torbiato, and Colombaro—this Riserva reflects the cool yet sunny microclimate and mineral-rich morainic soils of Lombardy’s Franciacorta zone. The vineyards are carefully managed with low yields to ensure concentration and balance in both Chardonnay and Pinot Nero. Grapes are hand-harvested at optimal ripeness, with rigorous sorting to select only pristine bunches. A significant portion of the base wines is fermented and partially matured in small oak barrels, adding texture and complexity without overwhelming the natural freshness. The final cuvée, composed almost equally of Chardonnay and Pinot Nero, undergoes secondary fermentation in bottle and is then left to age on the lees for several years. Bottled as a Dosaggio Zero, no dosage is added at disgorgement, allowing the wine’s intrinsic character and the finesse of its long lees aging to shine through.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis is a gastronomic Franciacorta, ideal with refined dishes rather than casual sipping. It pairs beautifully with shellfish (oysters, lobster, langoustines), caviar, and crudo or tartare of sea bass or tuna. It also complements delicate fish in beurre blanc, scallops, risotto with seafood or porcini mushrooms, and refined poultry dishes, as well as aged hard cheeses like Parmigiano Reggiano or mature Comté. Serve chilled but not too cold, around 8–10°C (46–50°F), to allow the aromas to fully express themselves. Decanting is not necessary, but opening the bottle 10–15 minutes before serving—or pouring the first glass and letting it sit in the glass—helps the wine unfurl its more complex, nutty and brioche notes.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBellavista, founded by Vittorio Moretti in the 1970s in the heart of Franciacorta, has become one of Italy’s benchmark producers for traditional-method sparkling wine. The estate takes its name from the stunning \"beautiful view\" over Lake Iseo and the surrounding hills, a landscape that shapes the character of its wines. Bellavista was instrumental in elevating Franciacorta from a local curiosity to an internationally recognized appellation for world-class sparkling wines, thanks to meticulous vineyard work, extensive use of barrel-fermented base wines, and long lees aging. The Vittorio Moretti Riserva represents the pinnacle of the house’s philosophy: produced only in exceptional years, it celebrates the best crus and the pursuit of perfection that has made Bellavista a reference point in Lombardy and beyond.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Bellavista","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255074771281,"sku":"XW-43750","price":115.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/bellavista-franciacorta-vittorio-moretti-dosaggio-zero-riserva-2016_43750_1_87b91f25-f4ec-4934-b24c-9181865f4726.webp?v=1783456563"},{"product_id":"berlucchi-61-franciacorta-rose-brut","title":"Berlucchi '61 Franciacorta Rosè Brut","description":"\u003cp\u003eBerlucchi '61 Franciacorta Rosé Brut is a refined Italian sparkling wine that captures the elegance and energy of Lombardy’s premier bubbly region. Crafted primarily from Pinot Nero with a touch of Chardonnay, it delivers a vibrant, poised style that stands comfortably alongside some of the world’s great traditional-method rosés. Named in honor of 1961, the year Berlucchi produced the first Franciacorta, this cuvée pays homage to the pioneering spirit that helped put Italian sparkling wine on the map.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, Berlucchi '61 Franciacorta Rosé Brut shows a delicate, shimmering pink hue with fine, persistent bubbles and a subtle copper highlight at the rim. The nose is fresh yet complex, with notes of wild strawberries, pomegranate, and raspberry coulis layered over rose petals, citrus zest, and a gentle hint of brioche and almond from extended lees aging.\n\nOn the palate, the wine is dry, crisp, and finely textured, balancing juicy red berry flavors with blood orange, white peach, and a touch of spice. The mousse is creamy but precise, supporting a chalky, mineral backbone that leads to a clean, savory finish. Its structure and acidity make it enjoyable now for its brightness and charm, but it also has the potential to develop extra nuance over the next 3–5 years, gaining more biscuity, autolytic complexity while retaining its fruit core.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe grapes for Berlucchi '61 Franciacorta Rosé Brut are sourced from selected vineyards in the gently rolling hills of Franciacorta in Lombardy, a region characterized by glacial morainic soils rich in minerals and well-draining gravel and sand. This terroir, combined with a temperate climate moderated by nearby Lake Iseo, allows Pinot Nero and Chardonnay to ripen slowly while preserving acidity and aromatic finesse. Grapes are harvested by hand to ensure careful selection in the vineyard, with Pinot Nero often vinified partly as a rosé base wine to achieve the desired color and structure. The cuvée is produced using the traditional method (Metodo Classico): gentle pressing, temperature-controlled fermentation, followed by a secondary fermentation in bottle and an extended period resting on the lees to build texture, complexity, and a fine, persistent perlage before disgorgement and final dosage.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis Franciacorta Rosé Brut is an excellent aperitif and equally at home throughout a meal. It pairs beautifully with charcuterie, salmon carpaccio, tuna tartare, sushi, shellfish, and delicately spiced Asian dishes, as well as lighter meat preparations like veal tonnato or herb-roasted chicken. Soft and semi-hard cheeses, especially fresh goat cheese or mild alpine styles, also work well with its bright acidity. Serve chilled at around 8–10°C (46–50°F) to highlight its freshness and fine bubbles. A brief, gentle aeration in the glass is usually sufficient; decanting is not necessary, but opening the bottle a few minutes before serving will allow the aromatic profile to fully express itself.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGuido Berlucchi is a cornerstone name in Franciacorta and widely recognized as one of the founding forces behind the region’s reputation for world-class sparkling wine. In 1961, Guido Berlucchi, together with enologist Franco Ziliani, released the first bottle-fermented wine labeled Franciacorta, effectively launching a new chapter in Italian sparkling wine history. Since then, Berlucchi has grown into one of the leading producers of the appellation, combining deep regional roots with a modern, quality-focused approach in the vineyard and cellar. The estate has earned numerous accolades for consistency, innovation, and its role in elevating Franciacorta to Italy’s highest sparkling wine status, showcasing how Lombardy can rival the great traditional-method wines of the world.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Berlucchi Guido","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255075656017,"sku":"XW-1091","price":28.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/berlucchi-61-franciacorta-rose-brut_1091_1_f75aaafb-c43d-40af-a740-55bf87f196ec.webp?v=1783456576"},{"product_id":"berlucchi-61-franciacorta-saten-brut","title":"Berlucchi '61 Franciacorta Saten Brut","description":"\u003cp\u003eBerlucchi '61 Franciacorta Satèn Brut is an elegant, all-Chardonnay sparkling wine that captures the finesse and sophistication of Italy’s answer to Champagne. Crafted in the traditional method in the heart of Lombardy’s Franciacorta region, this Satèn style offers a uniquely creamy, silky mousse and a refined, understated sparkle. Named in honor of 1961—the year Berlucchi produced the first modern Franciacorta—it’s a bottle with both style and history in every glass.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, Berlucchi '61 Satèn shows a luminous straw-yellow color with subtle green reflections and an ultra-fine, persistent perlage. The nose opens delicately with notes of white flowers, crisp green apple, and pear, followed by hints of citrus zest, almond, and a gentle touch of brioche from extended lees aging.\n\nOn the palate, this Franciacorta is all about finesse and texture: creamy, soft, and beautifully balanced, with Satèn’s hallmark gentle pressure giving a caressing, velvety mousse. Flavors of ripe orchard fruit, lemon curd, and a whisper of vanilla are supported by lively acidity and a clean mineral backbone. The finish is long, refined, and pleasantly savory, making it as compelling as an aperitif as it is at the table. Best enjoyed within a few years of release for maximum freshness and vibrancy, though 3–5 years of cellaring can add extra complexity and depth.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBerlucchi '61 Franciacorta Satèn Brut is sourced from Chardonnay vineyards in the gently rolling hills of Franciacorta, where glacial moraines, limestone, and mineral-rich soils provide ideal conditions for high-quality sparkling wine. The region’s temperate climate, moderated by nearby Lake Iseo, allows for slow, even ripening and excellent natural acidity. Grapes are hand-harvested to ensure careful selection of perfectly ripe, healthy fruit. After gentle pressing, the base wines undergo temperature-controlled fermentation in stainless steel, with a portion often matured on fine lees to build texture and complexity. The wine then undergoes a second fermentation in bottle (Metodo Classico) and rests on the lees for an extended period, developing its characteristic creaminess and refined bubbles before disgorgement and dosage to achieve the Satèn Brut style.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis Satèn is a versatile, food-friendly sparkling that shines alongside delicate and refined dishes. Pair it with crudo, oysters, sushi, or lightly grilled seafood, as well as creamy risottos, poultry in light sauces, and soft cheeses like burrata or taleggio. Its gentle mousse and balanced acidity also make it a sophisticated choice for aperitivo with charcuterie and canapés. Serve well chilled at around 8–10°C (46–50°F). While decanting is not necessary for this style, pouring into tulip-shaped sparkling wine glasses will help concentrate the aromas and showcase its elegant texture.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGuido Berlucchi is a pioneering name in Franciacorta and widely credited with sparking the region’s transformation into Italy’s premier traditional-method sparkling wine appellation. In 1961, in partnership with winemaker Franco Ziliani, Guido Berlucchi produced the first bottle of modern Franciacorta, laying the foundation for an entire category of fine Italian sparkling wine. Today, Berlucchi is one of the region’s most respected and influential producers, known for meticulous vineyard management, sustainable practices, and a consistently high level of quality across its range. The '61 line pays tribute to that groundbreaking year, celebrating Berlucchi’s role as a trailblazer in Lombardy and a benchmark for Franciacorta worldwide.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Berlucchi Guido","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255075688785,"sku":"XW-1092","price":27.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/berlucchi-61-franciacorta-saten-brut_1092_1_a96ca8f5-70ab-47c4-90f6-e5b40e9eb832.webp?v=1783456577"},{"product_id":"berlucchi-61-franciacorta-extra-brut","title":"Berlucchi '61 Franciacorta Extra Brut","description":"\u003cp\u003eBerlucchi '61 Franciacorta Extra Brut is a refined Italian sparkling wine that captures the elegance and precision of the Franciacorta region. Crafted primarily from Chardonnay with a touch of Pinot Nero, it offers a dry, mineral-driven style that appeals to lovers of top-quality traditional-method bubbles. Named in honor of 1961—the year Berlucchi produced the first modern Franciacorta—this cuvée pays tribute to a pivotal moment in Italian sparkling wine history.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, Berlucchi '61 Extra Brut shows a bright, straw-yellow hue with fine, persistent perlage that forms a delicate, lasting mousse. The nose is clean and layered, offering notes of green apple, citrus zest, and white flowers, supported by hints of brioche, fresh almonds, and subtle mineral undertones from extended lees aging.\n\nOn the palate, the wine is crisp, dry, and vibrant, with a tightly knit structure and precise acidity. Flavors of lemon curd, pear, and Granny Smith apple mingle with nuances of toast, hazelnut, and a chalky salinity that gives length and finesse. The Extra Brut dosage keeps the wine taut and focused, making it particularly food-friendly. While ready to enjoy now for its freshness and energy, it has the structure to evolve gracefully over the next 3–5 years, gaining additional complexity and creaminess.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe grapes for Berlucchi '61 Franciacorta Extra Brut are sourced from carefully selected vineyards in Lombardy’s famed Franciacorta appellation, where glacial soils rich in minerals and well-drained morainic deposits give the wines their hallmark tension and finesse. Chardonnay dominates the blend, with Pinot Nero adding structure and subtle depth. Harvest is typically done by hand to ensure gentle selection of only the healthiest clusters. After a soft pressing and fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks (with a portion sometimes aged in oak for added complexity), the base wines are blended and bottled for secondary fermentation following the traditional method. The wine then rests on its lees for an extended period—well beyond the minimum requirements—before disgorgement and a very low Extra Brut dosage, emphasizing purity, terroir, and precision.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBerlucchi '61 Extra Brut is an excellent aperitif and pairs seamlessly with a wide range of dishes. Enjoy it with oysters, prawns, crudo, sushi, or delicate white fish, as well as fresh goat cheese, tempura vegetables, and light risottos or pasta with seafood. It also works beautifully with refined appetizers and can carry you through an elegant multi-course meal. Serve well chilled at 6–8°C (43–46°F). Decanting is not necessary, but pouring into larger, tulip-shaped sparkling wine glasses rather than narrow flutes will help open up the aromas and highlight its complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGuido Berlucchi is widely regarded as the pioneering estate of Franciacorta, credited with launching the region’s modern sparkling wine tradition in 1961 when the first bottle of classic-method Franciacorta was produced in collaboration with winemaker Franco Ziliani. Located in the heart of Lombardy, Berlucchi has since become one of the most recognized names in Italian sparkling wine, helping to establish Franciacorta as a serious rival to the world’s finest traditional-method regions. The winery is known for its commitment to quality, meticulous vineyard management, and continuous innovation, earning numerous accolades and playing a crucial role in elevating both the reputation and stylistic benchmark of Franciacorta on the international stage.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Berlucchi Guido","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255075754321,"sku":"XW-38629","price":25.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/berlucchi-61-franciacorta-extra-brut_38629_1_ba587618-731d-494b-a064-72506828cbb2.webp?v=1783456577"},{"product_id":"berlucchi-61-franciacorta-extra-brut-magnum","title":"Berlucchi '61 Franciacorta Extra Brut Magnum","description":"\u003cp\u003eBerlucchi '61 Franciacorta Extra Brut Magnum is a refined sparkling wine from Lombardy that captures the elegance and precision of Italy’s answer to Champagne. Crafted primarily from Chardonnay with a touch of Pinot Nero, this magnum format is ideal for celebrations, offering extra complexity and a more harmonious evolution in the bottle. Named in tribute to 1961—the year Berlucchi produced the first modern Franciacorta—it stands as a hallmark of quality and a benchmark for the region.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, Berlucchi '61 Franciacorta Extra Brut shows a bright, straw-yellow color with subtle golden highlights and an exceptionally fine, persistent mousse. The bubbles are delicate yet energetic, forming a refined perlage that hints at careful, extended aging on the lees.\n\nOn the nose, it opens with fresh aromas of citrus zest, green apple, and pear, layered with notes of white flowers, brioche, and a gentle hint of toasted almonds. The palate is crisp, dry, and beautifully balanced: lively acidity frames flavors of lemon, Granny Smith apple, and stone fruit, supported by nuances of bread crust, hazelnut, and a faint mineral edge. The Extra Brut dosage keeps the profile taut and focused, making it both refreshing and gastronomic. This non-vintage cuvée is ready to drink upon release but, in magnum format, it has very good aging potential over the next 3–5 years, gaining further complexity and creaminess while preserving its vibrant backbone.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBerlucchi '61 Franciacorta Extra Brut is born from vineyards in the gently rolling hills of Franciacorta in Lombardy, an area shaped by ancient glacial deposits that leave a mix of gravel, stones, and calcareous soils—ideal for fine sparkling wine. The climate, moderated by nearby Lake Iseo, offers warm days and cool nights, helping Chardonnay and Pinot Nero ripen slowly while retaining acidity. Grapes are harvested by hand to ensure careful selection of bunches at optimal ripeness. In the cellar, the base wines are vinified separately, typically in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks to preserve purity and freshness, before being blended to achieve Berlucchi’s signature house style. The wine then undergoes its second fermentation in bottle, in the traditional method, and ages on the lees for an extended period to build texture, depth, and that characteristic toasty, brioche complexity before disgorgement and a very low Extra Brut dosage.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis Franciacorta Extra Brut Magnum shines as an elevated aperitif and pairs beautifully with a wide range of refined dishes. Try it alongside fresh oysters, crudo, sushi and sashimi, or delicate shellfish such as scallops and prawns. It also complements classic Italian antipasti, tempura vegetables, lightly fried seafood, and creamy soft cheeses. For main courses, consider grilled fish, herb-roasted chicken, or a truffle risotto to mirror its elegance and structure. Serve well-chilled at around 6–8°C (43–46°F) to highlight its precision and freshness. In magnum format, a brief 10–15 minutes in the glass or an elegant carafe is sufficient if you wish to let the wine open up, but extended decanting is not necessary—its charm lies in its tension and fine bead.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eGuido Berlucchi is widely regarded as the pioneer of Franciacorta, credited with helping transform this corner of Lombardy into Italy’s premier region for traditional-method sparkling wines. In 1961, Guido Berlucchi, together with winemaker Franco Ziliani, produced the first bottle that would set the standard for modern Franciacorta—an event now commemorated by the '61 line. Since then, Berlucchi has grown into one of the most influential and respected producers in the area, combining a deep respect for terroir with meticulous vineyard management and innovation in the cellar. The estate has played a central role in elevating Franciacorta’s international reputation, earning numerous accolades and becoming a reference point for quality Italian sparkling wine.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Berlucchi Guido","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255075787089,"sku":"XW-40549","price":52.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/berlucchi-61-franciacorta-extra-brut-magnum_40549_1.jpg?v=1783456577"},{"product_id":"rose-gold-pinot-nero-brut","title":"Rose Gold Pinot Nero Brut","description":"\u003cp\u003eBottega Rosé Gold Brut is an elegant sparkling rosé from Lombardy, made from Pinot Nero and crafted to deliver both freshness and finesse. Its delicate pink color, refined bubbles, and stylish presentation make it a standout choice for celebrations, while its Italian heritage brings a touch of prestige and tradition to the glass.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, it shows a pale rosé hue with a lively, fine perlage that gives it a polished, festive look. The nose is fresh and inviting, with aromas that typically lean toward red berries, floral notes, and a light citrus lift.\n\nOn the palate, it is crisp and dry, with a clean, refreshing structure and a graceful balance between fruit and acidity. The Pinot Nero base adds subtle red-fruit character and elegance, while the Brut style keeps the finish lively and precise. Best enjoyed young for maximum freshness and aromatic brightness.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eProduced in Lombardy, this sparkling rosé is made from Pinot Nero grapes through vinification designed to preserve delicacy and freshness. The region’s cool climate and winemaking tradition support the development of bright acidity and refined aromatics, both essential for a balanced Brut rosé. The méthode used emphasizes clean fruit expression and a fine, elegant mousse.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis wine works beautifully with light appetizers, seafood, sushi, fresh salads, risotto, and delicate poultry dishes. It is also an excellent aperitif. Serve well chilled, ideally at 6–8°C, and decanting is not necessary.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eBottega is an Italian producer known for combining quality winemaking with a distinctive, luxury-driven style. Based in Veneto but widely recognized across Italy and beyond, the company has built a strong reputation for sparkling wines and design-led bottles. Its portfolio has made it a notable name in the premium wine and gift market.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Bottega","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255078179153,"sku":"XW-56487","price":24.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/bottega-rose-gold_56487_1_bca0b366-57a0-44ca-a93e-935e3f0cdac8.webp?v=1783456614"},{"product_id":"ca-maiol-prestige-lugana-2024","title":"Ca Maiol Prestige Lugana 2024","description":"\u003cp\u003eCa Maiol Prestige Lugana 2024 is a bright, modern expression of Lake Garda’s signature white wine, crafted for pure drinking pleasure. This Lugana stands out for its crystalline freshness, sunlit fruit and elegant simplicity, making it an ideal choice for those who love clean, precise Italian whites. Produced from the native Turbiana grape, it captures the breezy, lakeside character that has made Lugana one of northern Italy’s most exciting white wine appellations.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, Prestige Lugana 2024 shows a luminous straw-yellow color with delicate green reflections, evoking a sunny summer afternoon. The nose is open and inviting, with notes of fresh lemon, lime zest and grapefruit, joined by crisp green apple, white peach and hints of almond blossom and wet stone.\n\nOn the palate, it is dry, lively and impeccably clean, with a refreshing, pool-dip acidity that keeps every sip mouthwatering. Flavors of citrus, pear and crunchy stone fruit are layered over a subtle saline minerality, giving the wine both charm and finesse. The finish is bright and gently persistent, with a whisper of bitter almond that is typical of Turbiana. While designed to be enjoyed young for maximum freshness and aromatic lift, it can comfortably evolve over the next 2–3 years, gaining a touch of complexity and softness.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe grapes for Ca Maiol Prestige Lugana 2024 come from vineyards near the southern shores of Lake Garda, in the heart of the Lugana DOC. Here, the combination of mild lake-influenced climate and mineral-rich clay and calcareous soils provides ideal conditions for Turbiana, preserving acidity while concentrating aroma. Grapes are typically harvested in the cool hours to preserve their delicate perfumes, then gently pressed. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled stainless-steel tanks to lock in freshness and purity of fruit. The wine is aged briefly on fine lees before bottling, enhancing texture and aromatic definition without adding heaviness or oak influence.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis Lugana is a natural match for seafood—think grilled prawns, citrus-marinated shrimp, steamed mussels, grilled sea bass or simple fish tacos. It also pairs beautifully with sushi, fresh goat cheese, caprese salad, light pasta dishes with vegetables or shellfish, and antipasti platters. Serve well-chilled, around 8–10°C (46–50°F), to highlight its crisp, citrusy profile. Decanting is not necessary; simply open the bottle shortly before serving and enjoy its immediate, vibrant freshness.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCà Maiol is one of the benchmark producers of Lugana, located just a short distance from the southern shores of Lake Garda in Lombardy. Founded in the late 1960s, the estate has played a key role in elevating the reputation of the Turbiana grape and in showcasing Lugana as a source of distinctive, ageworthy Italian white wines. With a focus on careful vineyard management and precise, modern winemaking, Cà Maiol has become a reference point in the region, earning both critical recognition and a loyal following among wine lovers seeking elegant, terroir-driven whites from northern Italy.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Cà Maiol","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255099511121,"sku":"XW-55035","price":16.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/ca-maiol-prestige-lugana-2024_55035_1_468f1e49-d389-45a6-aa13-b0505a759651.webp?v=1783456640"},{"product_id":"ca-maiol-spumante-sebastian-brut-rose","title":"Ca Maiol Spumante Sebastian Brut Rosè","description":"\u003cp\u003eCa Maiol Spumante Sebastian Brut Rosè is a lively Italian sparkling rosé from the shores of Lake Garda in Lombardy, crafted to showcase freshness, finesse and effortless drinkability. Made from carefully selected red grape varieties, it combines delicate fruit, fine bubbles and a dry, elegant finish that makes it ideal as an aperitif or for festive occasions. Rooted in a region better known for its refined whites, this rosé adds a modern, playful twist to Cà Maiol’s long-standing winemaking tradition in northern Italy.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, Sebastian Brut Rosè shows a bright, shimmering pink hue with subtle salmon reflections and a persistent, fine perlage. The nose is fragrant and inviting, offering aromas of wild strawberries, red currants and pomegranate, lifted by floral hints of rose petals and a touch of citrus zest.\n\nOn the palate, the wine is dry, crisp and well-balanced, with lively acidity that keeps the red berry fruit feeling fresh and precise. Notes of raspberry, cranberry and blood orange mingle with a gentle mineral edge and a clean, mouthwatering finish. The mousse is creamy yet delicate, giving the wine a refined, almost silky texture. Best enjoyed young for its vibrant fruit and freshness, although it will hold well for a couple of years, retaining its charm and vivacity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe grapes for Sebastian Brut Rosè come from selected vineyards in Lombardy, where the mild climate of the Lake Garda area and well-drained, mineral-rich soils help preserve acidity and aromatic purity in the red varieties used. After harvest, the bunches undergo a gentle pressing and a short, cool maceration on the skins to draw out the wine’s delicate pink color without excessive tannin. The base wine is then fermented at controlled low temperatures to retain fresh fruit character, before undergoing a secondary fermentation to create its fine, persistent bubbles. The result is a modern Italian spumante that emphasizes clarity, delicacy and drinkability.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSebastian Brut Rosè is a versatile sparkling wine that pairs beautifully with light appetizers, charcuterie, sushi, tuna tartare and salmon carpaccio, as well as Mediterranean salads and simple grilled seafood. It also works well with soft cheeses and mildly spicy Asian dishes, where its freshness and bubbles help cleanse the palate. Serve well-chilled at around 6–8°C. While it doesn’t require extended decanting, pouring it into tulip-shaped sparkling wine glasses and giving it a few minutes in the glass allows the delicate aromas to fully open.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCà Maiol is a respected estate based near Lake Garda in Lombardy, best known for helping to elevate the reputation of the Lugana area through meticulous vineyard work and a focus on quality-driven wines. Over the years, the winery has expanded from its roots in still white wines to a broader range that includes expressive sparkling styles like Sebastian Brut Rosè, all crafted with a strong sense of place and modern precision. By combining regional tradition with up-to-date cellar techniques, Cà Maiol has become a reference producer in the area, earning recognition for wines that are both approachable and characterful.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Cà Maiol","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255099674961,"sku":"XW-28691","price":13.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/ca-maiol-spumante-sebastian-brut-rose_28691_1_20b089a1-4a23-43fc-b2ff-4842ce49ea55.webp?v=1783456642"},{"product_id":"ca-dei-frati-cuvee-dei-frati-dosaggio-zero","title":"Ca dei Frati Cuvee dei Frati Dosaggio Zero","description":"\u003cp\u003eCa' dei Frati Cuvée dei Frati Dosaggio Zero Metodo Classico is a refined, bone-dry sparkling wine from the shores of Lake Garda in Lombardy. Crafted primarily from the local Turbiana grape, with a touch of Chardonnay, it offers a vibrant, elegantly structured style that highlights purity over sweetness. This Pas Dosé cuvée showcases Ca’ dei Frati’s pioneering work with traditional-method sparkling wines in a region better known for still Lugana whites.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, this Metodo Classico shows a pale straw to light gold hue with a fine, persistent perlage that forms a delicate mousse. The nose is lifted and expressive, with notes of green apple, crisp pear, lemon zest and white flowers, layered with subtle hints of brioche, almond and a light mineral salinity derived from its Lake Garda origins.\n\nOn the palate, it is dry and linear, with no dosage to mask the naturally lively acidity of Turbiana. Flavors of citrus, green stone fruit and fresh herbs mingle with a gently creamy texture from extended lees aging, giving both tension and depth. The finish is long, clean and savory, with a chalky, saline edge that invites another sip. With around 36 months on the lees, this wine has the structure to evolve for several years in bottle, gaining additional complexity and autolytic nuance while maintaining its backbone of freshness.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe grapes for Cuvée dei Frati Dosaggio Zero are sourced from vineyards near Lake Garda in Lombardy, where the mild climate, cooling breezes and mineral-rich, glacially influenced soils provide ideal conditions for Turbiana and Chardonnay. Harvest is typically carried out with careful selection to preserve acidity and aromatic purity, picking at the optimal moment of ripeness for sparkling wine. After gentle pressing, the base wines are vinified separately at controlled temperatures to preserve their delicate fruit profile. The second fermentation takes place in bottle using the Metodo Classico, followed by approximately 36 months of aging on the lees, which deepens flavor and texture. The wine is released without dosage (Pas Dosé), allowing the natural character of the grapes and terroir to take center stage.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis crisp, dry sparkling wine is a natural partner for seafood—think oysters, shrimp tartare, crudo, sushi and delicate white fish, as well as fried seafood where its acidity cuts beautifully through the richness. It also works well with fresh goat cheese, young hard cheeses, light vegetable dishes and appetizers such as tempura or vegetable fritters. Serve well-chilled at about 6–8°C (43–46°F) to highlight its precision and freshness. A brief 10–15 minutes in the glass or in an open bottle is sufficient; extended decanting is not necessary, but pouring into larger tulip-shaped sparkling glasses will help the aromas fully unfold.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCa’ dei Frati is one of the benchmark estates of the Lugana appellation on the southern shores of Lake Garda, with roots in viticulture dating back to the late 18th century. Long recognized for elevating Turbiana from a local curiosity to an internationally respected white grape, the estate has played a key role in defining the modern style of Lugana wines—fresh, mineral, and ageworthy. Over the years, Ca’ dei Frati has expanded its range to include carefully crafted Metodo Classico wines that highlight the versatility of Turbiana in sparkling form. Its consistent quality, attention to detail and pioneering spirit have made it a flagship producer in Lombardy and a reference point for lovers of premium Italian whites and sparkling wines.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ca' dei Frati","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255104721233,"sku":"XW-52385","price":31.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/ca-dei-frati-cuvee-dei-frati-dosaggio-zero-metodo-classico_52385_1_7c186f9a-ebb8-428f-9d44-6f9ac5a7c333.webp?v=1783456645"},{"product_id":"ca-del-bosco-ilmerlot-2015","title":"Ca' del Bosco Ilmerlot 2015","description":"\u003cp\u003eCa' del Bosco Ilmerlot 2015 is a refined, single-varietal Merlot from the heart of Lombardy, crafted by one of Italy’s most acclaimed modern wineries. This is Merlot with an Italian accent: ripe, plush fruit wrapped in fresh acidity and fine, polished tannins. Made in small quantities and with meticulous attention to detail, Ilmerlot showcases how Merlot can be both generous and elegantly structured in the cool, hilly vineyards of Franciacorta.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, Ilmerlot 2015 shows a deep ruby core with garnet highlights forming at the rim, reflecting its evolving complexity. The nose opens with succulent black cherry and ripe plum, followed by layers of blackberry compote, dried violets, and a touch of cured tobacco. With air, more nuanced aromas emerge—dark chocolate, sweet baking spices, cedarwood, and a gentle hint of graphite and forest floor.\n\nOn the palate, this is a full-bodied yet poised Merlot, with concentrated dark fruit framed by vibrant Lombard acidity. Silky, fine-grained tannins support flavors of black cherry, cassis, and plum, intertwined with mocha, licorice, and subtle vanilla from careful oak aging. The finish is long and persistent, with a savory mineral edge and a faint note of roasted coffee. The 2015 vintage, from a warm, balanced growing season, is drinking beautifully now but has the structure to develop further complexity over the next 6–10 years when properly cellared.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIlmerlot 2015 is sourced from select hillside vineyards in Lombardy, where Merlot benefits from a temperate climate, cool evening breezes from the nearby Alps, and well-drained, morainic soils rich in minerals. Yields are intentionally kept low, and grapes are harvested by hand at optimal ripeness, with strict selection both in the vineyard and at the winery to ensure only the best clusters are used. Fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled tanks to preserve varietal purity, followed by extended maceration to extract color, flavor, and fine tannins. The wine is then aged in small oak barrels—largely French—allowing it to gain complexity, texture, and aromatic depth without overpowering the fruit, before being bottled and rested to harmonize prior to release.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCa' del Bosco Ilmerlot 2015 is a natural match for richly flavored dishes such as roast lamb, braised beef, ossobuco, or slow-cooked ragù with pappardelle. It also pairs beautifully with aged hard cheeses, truffled dishes, mushroom risotto, and grilled game birds. For optimal enjoyment, serve at 16–18°C (60–64°F). Decanting for 45–60 minutes before serving will help the wine open up, soften its tannins, and reveal its full aromatic complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eFounded in the late 1960s, Ca' del Bosco has grown from a small country house in the woods (“casa nel bosco”) into one of Italy’s most innovative and respected estates. While best known for elevating Franciacorta sparkling wines to world-class status, the winery has also become a reference point for high-quality still wines from Lombardy, including expressive, terroir-driven Merlot. Under visionary leadership and a philosophy that blends meticulous vineyard work with cutting-edge cellar technology, Ca' del Bosco has earned international acclaim, critical awards, and a reputation as a benchmark producer that helped put Lombardy firmly on the global fine wine map.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ca' Del Bosco","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255109701969,"sku":"XW-54357","price":87.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/ca-del-bosco-ilmerlot-2015_54357_1_07f81d3d-400d-4be7-bbbf-739bf9a915d6.webp?v=1783456646"},{"product_id":"ca-dei-frati-cuvee-dei-frati-extra-brut","title":"Ca dei Frati Cuvee dei Frati Extra Brut","description":"\u003cp\u003eCa’ dei Frati Cuvée dei Frati Extra Brut is a refined Italian sparkling wine that brings together the freshness of Chardonnay and Turbiana in a classic-method style. Inspired by the naturally high acidity of the estate’s grapes, it is crafted to stand alongside some of Italy’s most elegant sparkling wines, with precision, finesse, and a distinctly Lombardy character.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePale straw in color with a fine, persistent mousse, this Extra Brut shows a clean and luminous appearance in the glass. The bouquet is bright and focused, with notes of green apple, citrus zest, white flowers, and subtle brioche-like nuances from time on the lees.\n\nOn the palate, it is dry, crisp, and energetic, combining fresh orchard fruit with saline minerality and a lively backbone of acidity. The wine’s structure gives it excellent balance and a long, mouthwatering finish. While already charming for its freshness, it should also hold well over the next few years, gradually gaining more depth and complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eProduced in Lombardy from Chardonnay and Turbiana grown for their naturally firm acidity, this wine is made in the classic method to preserve precision and elegance. The estate’s approach reflects the quality of the fruit and the goal of creating a sparkling wine with the structure and finesse of Italy’s best traditional sparkling styles.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis is an excellent match for oysters, shellfish, sushi, delicate seafood starters, and light antipasti. It also works beautifully with creamy cheeses or refined fried dishes. Serve well chilled at around 6–8°C, and decanting is not recommended.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCa’ dei Frati is one of the most respected producers in Lombardy, especially around Lake Garda, where the estate has helped define the reputation of the region’s wines. Known for combining tradition with meticulous viticulture and modern cellar precision, the winery has earned recognition for wines that capture both freshness and character.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ca' dei Frati","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255109734737,"sku":"XW-21348","price":21.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/ca-dei-frati-cuvee-dei-frati-extra-brut-metodo-classico_21348_1_78d00926-ff5b-4231-80c2-ac0180588320.webp?v=1783456647"},{"product_id":"ca-del-bosco-franciacorta-vintage-collection-saten-brut-2020","title":"Ca' del Bosco Franciacorta Vintage Collection Saten Brut 2020","description":"\u003cp\u003eCa' del Bosco Franciacorta Vintage Collection Satèn Brut 2020 is a luxuriously smooth sparkling wine that showcases the softer, silkier side of Franciacorta. Crafted from select Chardonnay and Pinot Bianco grapes, it offers a creamy, caressing texture and a refined, understated mousse. This is Ca’ del Bosco’s sensual interpretation of Satèn, a signature Franciacorta style made exclusively from white grapes and bottled at a lower pressure for extra finesse.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, the 2020 Vintage Collection Satèn pours a luminous straw-gold with fine, persistent bubbles that form a delicate, continuous bead. The nose is immediately inviting, with notes of ripe orchard fruit—pear, Golden Delicious apple, and white peach—layered with hints of citrus zest, acacia blossom, fresh brioche, almond cream, and a gentle mineral edge.\n\nOn the palate, the wine is soft, rounded, and exquisitely balanced, with a satiny mousse that glides rather than sparkles aggressively. Flavors of baked apple, lemon curd, and pear tart are complemented by nuances of toasted hazelnut, vanilla pod, and a chalky, saline freshness that keeps the richness in check. The dosage is carefully judged, allowing the wine’s natural fruit and minerality to shine. The finish is long, harmonious, and subtly spicy, with lingering notes of citrus peel and pastry cream. Enjoyable now for its plush texture and youthful energy, it also has the structure and acidity to evolve gracefully over the next 5–7 years, developing more complexity and nuttier, honeyed tones with time in bottle.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe grapes for Ca' del Bosco’s Vintage Collection Satèn Brut 2020 come from selected hillside vineyards in Lombardy’s Franciacorta region, where a mix of glacial moraines, limestone, and clay soils contribute tension, minerality, and depth to the wine. Chardonnay is the star here, with a supporting role from Pinot Bianco, both harvested by hand to ensure pristine fruit selection in the vineyard. After gentle pressing in an oxygen-free environment to preserve purity and aromatics, the must is fermented in a combination of stainless steel and small oak barrels, followed by a period of maturation on the fine lees to build texture and complexity. The second fermentation takes place in bottle using the traditional method, with a deliberately lower tirage sugar addition to achieve the Satèn style’s trademark softer pressure and finer mousse. Extended aging on the lees in Ca’ del Bosco’s cellars enhances the wine’s creamy texture and layered complexity before disgorgement and a carefully balanced dosage.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis Satèn is an elegant partner for refined dishes and delicate flavors. It pairs beautifully with seafood such as scallops, langoustines, lobster, and lightly poached fish, as well as sushi, sashimi, and crudo. Creamy risottos—especially with asparagus, mushrooms, or shellfish—are natural companions, as are poultry dishes, soft-ripened cheeses, and delicate vegetable tempura. Serve well-chilled at around 8–10°C (46–50°F) to highlight its finesse and freshness. A brief 10–15 minutes in a wide-bowled sparkling wine glass or a white wine glass rather than a narrow flute will allow the aromas and texture to fully express themselves; extended decanting is not necessary.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCa’ del Bosco is one of Franciacorta’s most acclaimed and pioneering estates, widely regarded as a driving force behind the region’s rise to international prominence. Founded in the late 1960s in the gentle hills of Erbusco in Lombardy, the winery has built its reputation on meticulous vineyard work, innovation in cellar technology, and an unwavering commitment to quality. Known for its gravity-flow winery, rigorous grape selection, and unique grape-washing system, Ca’ del Bosco has set a benchmark for purity and precision in Italian sparkling wine. Its Vintage Collection wines, including Satèn, are considered among the reference points for premium Franciacorta, frequently earning high praise from critics and helping to define the region’s modern, world-class identity.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ca' Del Bosco","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255110422865,"sku":"XW-54414","price":62.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/ca-del-bosco-franciacorta-vintage-collection-saten-brut-2020_54414_1_af83aaf1-a9b3-470a-9be3-764ed2f6bc95.webp?v=1783456647"},{"product_id":"ca-del-bosco-franciacorta-vintage-collection-saten-brut-magnum-2020","title":"Ca' del Bosco Franciacorta Vintage Collection Saten Brut Magnum 2020","description":"\u003cp\u003eCa' del Bosco Franciacorta Vintage Collection Satèn Brut 2020 in magnum is a luxurious expression of Italian sparkling wine, crafted exclusively from white grapes and designed to showcase pure finesse over sheer power. This Satèn style is Franciacorta’s answer to blanc de blancs, with a softer mousse, silkier texture and an emphasis on elegance. The 2020 vintage continues Ca’ del Bosco’s tradition of producing refined, ageworthy sparkling wines that have helped define Franciacorta as Italy’s leading classic-method region.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, this Franciacorta Satèn shows a bright, luminous straw-yellow hue with delicate, persistent bubbles forming a fine, creamy mousse. The nose is immediately inviting, with notes of ripe orchard fruits—pear, golden apple and white peach—layered with hints of citrus zest, acacia blossom, fresh brioche and subtle vanilla, underpinned by a gentle mineral tone.\n\nOn the palate, it is smooth, plush and caressing, with that trademark Satèn creaminess. Flavours of stone fruit and citrus are wrapped in a velvety texture, balanced by a lively but finely knit acidity that keeps everything fresh and precise. The lower bottle pressure typical of Satèn gives a softer, more sensuous mousse, enhancing the wine’s round, almost tactile mouthfeel. Hints of toasted hazelnut, pastry cream and chalky minerality linger on the long, graceful finish. In magnum, this 2020 has excellent aging potential, evolving over 6–10 years from vintage with additional complexity, creaminess and tertiary notes of honey, almond and brioche.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSourced from carefully selected Chardonnay and Pinot Bianco vineyards in the rolling hills of Franciacorta in Lombardy, this wine reflects a terroir of glacially formed, morainic soils rich in stones and minerals, with excellent drainage and good diurnal temperature swings. Grapes are harvested by hand at optimal ripeness, then meticulously sorted to ensure only pristine bunches reach the press. At Ca’ del Bosco, the fruit famously undergoes a gentle washing and drying system to preserve purity before soft pressing. The must is vinified parcel by parcel, largely in stainless steel with a proportion aged in small oak, allowing each vineyard’s character to express itself. After primary fermentation, the base wines are blended and prepared for the traditional method second fermentation in bottle. For Satèn, a slightly lower dosage of sugar is added in the liqueur de tirage, resulting in reduced bottle pressure and a softer, creamier mousse. The wine then rests on its lees for an extended period—several years—to build texture, depth and complexity before disgorgement and a carefully judged Brut dosage.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis Satèn is a versatile partner at the table, ideal with delicate dishes that echo its refined texture. Think crudo of white fish, scallop carpaccio, lobster or crab, lightly seared tuna, and fine sushi or sashimi. It’s excellent with creamy risottos—especially seafood, lemon or asparagus risotto—as well as poultry in delicate cream sauces, veal carpaccio, and soft-ripened cheeses such as taleggio, robiola or brie. Serve well chilled, ideally around 8–10°C, to highlight its freshness without muting the bouquet. A magnum benefits from being opened 15–20 minutes before serving; gentle, brief aeration in the bottle or a quick, careful decant into a chilled carafe can help the aromas fully unfold, especially as the wine gains a few years of bottle age.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCa’ del Bosco is one of Franciacorta’s most prestigious and influential producers, widely credited with helping to elevate the region to international prominence. Founded in the late 1960s in the rolling hills of Erbusco, in Lombardy, the estate has built a reputation for uncompromising quality, meticulous vineyard management and pioneering cellar practices, including its signature grape-washing system. Over the decades, Ca’ del Bosco has become a benchmark for metodo classico in Italy, with a portfolio of wines that consistently earn high critical acclaim. The Vintage Collection Satèn, in particular, showcases the estate’s ability to combine precision, purity and luxurious texture, reinforcing Ca’ del Bosco’s status as a reference point for world-class sparkling wine.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ca' Del Bosco","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255110455633,"sku":"XW-54415","price":134.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/ca-del-bosco-franciacorta-vintage-collection-saten-brut-magnum-2020_54415_1_172eefce-7bfe-4dcd-974c-78495ed43949.webp?v=1783456648"},{"product_id":"ca-del-bosco-maurizio-zanella-rosso-sebino-2021","title":"Ca' del Bosco Maurizio Zanella Rosso Sebino 2021","description":"\u003cp\u003eCa' del Bosco Maurizio Zanella Rosso Sebino 2021 is a flagship Bordeaux-style blend from Lombardy that bears the signature of the estate’s visionary founder, Maurizio Zanella, right on the label. Crafted from Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot and Cabernet Franc sourced from the estate’s finest vineyards, it is a powerful yet impeccably polished red that celebrates both the man and the unique Franciacorta terroir. Widely regarded as one of the wines that helped drive the ‘Italian oenological renaissance’, this cuvée stands as a modern classic of northern Italian red wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, the 2021 shows a deep, intense ruby colour with violet highlights hinting at its youth and concentration. The nose opens with layered aromas of ripe blackcurrant, plum and blackberry, supported by notes of graphite, cedar, tobacco leaf and sweet baking spices from fine-grained oak, along with subtle hints of violet and cocoa.\n\nOn the palate, this is a structured, full-bodied red with a core of dark, ripe fruit wrapped in ripe, velvety tannins. Flavours of black cherry, cassis and dark plum are woven with espresso, pencil shavings, vanilla and a gentle herbal lift from the Cabernet Franc. The balance between richness, freshness and oak is finely judged, leading to a long, savoury, mineral-driven finish. Built for longevity, the 2021 has the concentration and structure to evolve beautifully for 10–20 years or more in a good cellar, gradually gaining complexity and tertiary notes of leather, truffle and cigar box.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe grapes for Maurizio Zanella Rosso Sebino are grown in selected estate vineyards in the rolling Franciacorta hills of Lombardy, where glacial moraines, well-drained soils and a temperate climate moderated by Lake Iseo create ideal conditions for Bordeaux varieties. Yields are kept deliberately low to maximise concentration, and the grapes are harvested by hand, with strict selection both in the vineyard and on sorting tables. After gentle destemming and crushing, fermentation takes place in temperature-controlled tanks, often with frequent pump-overs to extract colour, flavour and fine tannins. The wine is then aged in small French oak barriques, a significant proportion of them new, for an extended period to develop complexity, integrate the oak and refine the tannic structure before blending, bottling and further bottle ageing prior to release.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis is a gastronomic red that shines alongside richly flavoured dishes: think grilled or roasted red meats, dry-aged steaks, slow-braised beef or lamb shanks, game birds, and hearty stews. It also pairs beautifully with truffle risotto, mushroom-based dishes, aged hard cheeses and refined preparations of venison or wild boar. Serve at around 16–18°C (60–64°F) in large Bordeaux glasses to allow the wine to open up fully. Decanting for 1–2 hours before serving is recommended, especially in its youth, to soften the tannins and reveal the full aromatic spectrum.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCa' del Bosco, founded in the late 1960s by Maurizio Zanella in the heart of Franciacorta, is one of Italy’s most acclaimed and innovative wineries. Originally famous for elevating Franciacorta sparkling wine to world-class status, the estate also became a pioneer of serious, terroir-driven still wines from Lombardy, with the Maurizio Zanella Rosso standing as its emblematic red. Known for meticulous vineyard work, state-of-the-art facilities and a relentless pursuit of quality, Ca' del Bosco has earned a reputation as a benchmark producer in the region, contributing significantly to Lombardy’s rise on the international fine wine stage and garnering top scores from leading wine critics and guides year after year.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ca' Del Bosco","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255115403601,"sku":"XW-54358","price":79.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/ca-del-bosco-maurizio-zanella-rosso-sebino-2021_54358_1_a11fb00e-dfff-41b4-b227-c083286f66e7.webp?v=1783456649"},{"product_id":"ca-del-bosco-franciacorta-vintage-collection-extra-brut-magnum-2019","title":"Ca' del Bosco Franciacorta Vintage Collection Extra Brut Magnum 2019","description":"\u003cp\u003eCa' del Bosco Franciacorta Vintage Collection Extra Brut Magnum 2019 is a powerful yet finely etched sparkling wine from one of Italy’s most acclaimed producers. In this vintage, the strength and structure of Pinot Nero meet the elegance and finesse of Chardonnay and Pinot Bianco, all expressed with a very low dosage. Crafted in magnum for slower, more harmonious maturation, it offers a crescendo of aromas and complexity that only deepens with time.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, this 2019 Franciacorta shows a luminous, straw-gold hue with subtle green reflections, crowned by a persistent, fine bead of bubbles. The nose opens with notes of ripe citrus and crisp green apple, followed by white peach, brioche, toasted hazelnut and delicate hints of acacia blossom and chalky minerality. With air, more complex layers emerge: pastry cream, fresh almond and a whisper of spice.\n\nOn the palate, the Extra Brut style (low dosage) lets the wine’s pure fruit and terroir-driven character shine. Chardonnay brings tension and precision, Pinot Nero contributes structure and depth, while Pinot Bianco adds a gentle softness and floral lift. Expect a taut, vibrant attack, evolving into a creamy, finely textured mid-palate with flavors of lemon curd, pear, stone fruit, brioche and roasted nuts. The finish is long, dry and saline, with a mouthwatering acidity and a subtle grip that promises excellent evolution. In magnum, this vintage has serious aging potential: it is already beautifully expressive but will gain further complexity over the next 8–12 years.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSourced from Ca' del Bosco’s estate vineyards in the rolling hills of Franciacorta in Lombardy, this wine reflects a terroir of well-drained morainic soils rich in minerals, moderated by the nearby Lake Iseo. Grapes are harvested by hand, parcel by parcel, at optimal ripeness and brought to the cellar in small crates to preserve their integrity. True to Ca' del Bosco’s meticulous approach, the bunches undergo a gentle, patented grape ‘spa’ washing and careful selection before pressing. Each variety and parcel is vinified separately, with primary fermentation taking place mainly in stainless steel and partially in small oak barrels to add texture and complexity. After blending, the cuvée undergoes secondary fermentation in bottle and is aged for an extended period on the lees, well beyond the appellation minimum, before disgorgement with a very low dosage to maintain purity, tension and precision.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis Franciacorta Magnum is a versatile partner at the table, ideal for refined starters and elegant main courses. Pair it with oysters, caviar, sashimi or crudo, or try it alongside lobster, scallops, turbot, or delicately prepared shellfish pastas. It also shines with creamy risotti, poultry in light sauces, veal tartare and aged cheeses such as Parmigiano Reggiano or Grana Padano. Serve well chilled at 8–10°C (46–50°F). For maximum expression, especially from magnum, open the bottle 15–20 minutes before serving; delicate decanting is optional but can help the wine unfurl its more complex, autolytic notes.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCa' del Bosco is one of the founding and leading estates of Franciacorta, widely credited with helping to elevate the region to the pinnacle of Italian sparkling wine. Established in the late 1960s in the hills near Erbusco, the winery quickly gained a reputation for obsessive attention to detail, from vineyard management to its pioneering grape-washing system and rigorous selection. Over the decades, Ca' del Bosco has become a benchmark for classic-method Italian sparkling wines, consistently earning top scores and international recognition. Its Vintage Collection bottlings represent the estate’s most exacting expression of single-vintage Franciacorta, showcasing both the aging potential and the distinctive character of Lombardy’s finest terroirs.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Ca' Del Bosco","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255115469137,"sku":"XW-46316","price":130.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/ca-del-bosco-franciacorta-vintage-collection-extra-brut-magnum-2019_46316_1_642ffa3b-5080-4b4e-a1a5-266ee8625901.webp?v=1783456649"},{"product_id":"camossi-franciacorta-extra-brut","title":"Camossi Franciacorta Extra Brut","description":"\u003cp\u003eCamossi Franciacorta Extra Brut is a refined Italian sparkling wine from Lombardy, crafted in the traditional method and designed for those who appreciate precision and elegance in the glass. Made primarily from Chardonnay with a touch of Pinot Nero, it delivers the finesse and structure that has made Franciacorta Italy’s answer to Champagne. Extra Brut in style, it is dry, mineral, and focused, making it an excellent choice for aperitifs, special occasions, or fine dining.\n\nIts key appeal lies in the combination of high-altitude vineyards, meticulous handwork, and extended lees aging, which together create a wine of depth and complexity. Franciacorta is one of Italy’s most prestigious sparkling wine appellations, and producers like Camossi have helped elevate the region’s reputation with wines that are both terroir-driven and gastronomic in style.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, Camossi Franciacorta Extra Brut shows a bright, pale straw-yellow hue with fine, persistent bubbles that form a delicate, continuous mousse. The appearance suggests freshness and precision, with a lively sparkle that immediately invites a first sip.\n\nOn the nose, expect elegant notes of green apple, lemon zest, and crisp pear, layered with hints of white flowers, fresh bread dough, and a touch of toasted hazelnut from lees contact. Subtle mineral tones and a whisper of brioche add complexity without overwhelming the wine’s vibrant fruit.\n\nThe palate is dry, taut, and linear, reflecting the Extra Brut dosage. Lively acidity frames flavors of citrus, green apple, and stone fruit, supported by a fine, chalky minerality. The Pinot Nero brings a gentle backbone and texture, giving the mid-palate a subtle depth and a refined, almost creamy mouthfeel while remaining precise and energetic. The finish is long, clean, and saline, with lingering notes of citrus peel and fresh almond.\n\nEnjoyable on release for its purity and freshness, this Franciacorta Extra Brut also has the structure to evolve gracefully over the next 3–5 years. With a bit of bottle age, expect the wine to develop more pronounced brioche, pastry, and nutty nuances while retaining its vibrant core.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCamossi Franciacorta Extra Brut is crafted from Chardonnay and Pinot Nero grown in the rolling hills of Lombardy’s Franciacorta area, where glacial moraines, limestone, and gravel-rich soils provide excellent drainage and a distinctive mineral character. The climate is moderated by nearby Lake Iseo, allowing for slow, even ripening and the preservation of natural acidity. Grapes are typically harvested by hand to ensure careful selection of only the healthiest, perfectly ripe bunches. In the cellar, the base wines are vinified separately, usually in temperature-controlled stainless steel to preserve aromatic freshness, with possible partial maturation on lees to build texture. The traditional method (metodo classico) is used for the second fermentation in bottle, followed by an extended period of aging on the lees to develop complexity, fine bubbles, and a creamy texture. After disgorgement, a very low dosage is added to achieve the Extra Brut style, highlighting the purity of the fruit and the character of the terroir.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis Extra Brut Franciacorta is an outstanding partner for refined aperitifs and elegant dishes. Pair it with oysters, scallops, and other shellfish, crudo or sushi, as well as delicately prepared white fish, tempura, or light poultry dishes. It also complements soft, bloomy-rind cheeses, fresh goat cheese, and simple antipasti featuring cured meats and olives. Serve well-chilled at around 6–8°C (43–46°F) to highlight its freshness and precision. A short, gentle aeration in the glass is usually sufficient, but if desired, you can open the bottle 10–15 minutes before serving rather than formally decanting, to allow the wine’s subtler autolytic notes to emerge.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCamossi is a quality-focused producer based in the Franciacorta region of Lombardy, an area widely regarded as Italy’s premier source of metodo classico sparkling wines. Combining a deep respect for local terroir with modern precision in the cellar, the estate has built a reputation for wines that are both elegant and characterful. Working primarily with Chardonnay and Pinot Nero, Camossi aims to express the nuances of Franciacorta’s glacially formed soils and temperate climate through meticulous vineyard management and careful, low-intervention winemaking. Their Franciacorta bottlings, including this Extra Brut, help underscore the region’s status as a serious rival to the world’s best traditional-method sparkling wines, and the producer is increasingly recognized among discerning drinkers and sommeliers for its consistent quality and expressive style.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Camossi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255125594449,"sku":"XW-27588","price":25.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/camossi-franciacorta-extra-brut_27588_1_5d10dd25-2dd2-4786-9502-1c6cdb06659f.webp?v=1783456656"},{"product_id":"camossi-franciacorta-blanc-de-blancs-extra-brut-riserva-2016","title":"Camossi Franciacorta Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut Riserva 2016","description":"\u003cp\u003eCamossi Franciacorta Blanc de Blancs Extra Brut Riserva 2016 is a finely made sparkling wine that captures the elegance and precision of 100% Chardonnay from Lombardy’s celebrated Franciacorta region. With its extra brut style and extended lees ageing, it combines freshness, texture, and complexity in a way that makes it stand out among premium Italian sparkling wines.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePale straw in the glass with a refined, persistent mousse, this wine shows a bright, polished appearance that hints at its finesse. The nose is expressive yet controlled, offering notes of citrus zest, green apple, white flowers, and subtle brioche, with a delicate mineral edge in the background.\n\nOn the palate it is crisp and dry, with vivid acidity balanced by a creamy, layered texture. Flavours of lemon, pear, toasted almond, and pastry unfold with impressive clarity, leading to a long, elegant finish. Thanks to its structure and reserve status, it should also develop gracefully over the next several years, gaining further depth and complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eMade entirely from Chardonnay, this Franciacorta comes from Lombardy’s cool-climate vineyards, where the combination of glacial soils, good drainage, and moderate temperatures helps preserve acidity and aromatic freshness. The grapes are typically harvested by hand to ensure only healthy, perfectly ripe fruit is selected, a crucial step for high-quality sparkling wine production.\n\nFollowing the traditional method, the wine undergoes a secondary fermentation in bottle and is aged extensively on the lees to build richness, texture, and complexity before disgorgement. The extra brut dosage keeps the final profile taut and precise, allowing the character of the vintage and terroir to shine through.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis wine is a natural match for oysters, shellfish, sushi, delicate seafood dishes, and light appetisers such as tempura or crostini with fresh cheese. It also pairs beautifully with creamy risotto or poultry in subtle sauces. Serve well chilled at around 6–8°C, and decanting is not recommended.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCamossi is a respected Franciacorta producer known for crafting elegant, terroir-driven sparkling wines that reflect the region’s reputation for precision and refinement. While not among the largest names in the appellation, the producer has earned attention for producing high-quality wines with a strong sense of balance and style, particularly in vintages that benefit from extended ageing.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Camossi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255130771793,"sku":"XW-50928","price":39.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/camossi-franciacorta-blanc-de-blancs-extra-brut-riserva-2016_50928_1_d296aa35-6971-4832-8ff6-ae1bb29cf1be.webp?v=1783456656"},{"product_id":"camossi-franciacorta-saten-brut","title":"Camossi Franciacorta Saten Brut","description":"\u003cp\u003eCamossi Franciacorta Satèn Brut is a refined Italian sparkling wine that showcases the elegance and finesse of 100% Chardonnay from Lombardy’s prestigious Franciacorta region. Crafted in the traditional method and bottled with lower pressure, this Satèn style delivers a uniquely silky, creamy mousse that sets it apart from most sparkling wines. It’s an ideal choice for those seeking a premium, Champagne‑method Italian bubbly with a softer, more luxurious texture.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, Camossi Franciacorta Satèn Brut typically shows a pale straw to light gold hue, illuminated by fine, persistent bubbles that form a delicate, continuous bead. The nose is refined and inviting, with notes of fresh citrus, green apple, and pear layered over hints of white flowers, brioche, and subtle almond, reflecting time spent on the lees.\n\nOn the palate, this Satèn is all about texture: creamier and softer than a standard brut, with a gentle, caressing mousse and beautifully integrated acidity. Flavors of lemon zest, crisp apple, and stone fruit are interwoven with nuances of toasted bread, hazelnut, and a touch of minerality, leading to a long, graceful finish. Well‑balanced and poised, it is delicious now but also has a few years of aging potential in bottle, during which the wine can develop more complex notes of pastry, honey, and dried fruits.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSourced from carefully selected Chardonnay vineyards in the rolling hills of Franciacorta, Camossi’s Satèn Brut benefits from a cool, breezy climate and mineral‑rich morainic soils that give freshness and structure. Grapes are harvested by hand to ensure optimal ripeness and careful fruit selection. The base wine is vinified with meticulous temperature control to preserve aromatic purity, followed by secondary fermentation in bottle according to the traditional method. Extended aging on the lees contributes to the wine’s signature creaminess, fine bubbles, and subtle autolytic notes, while the lower bottle pressure required for Satèn enhances its uniquely soft, silky mouthfeel.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCamossi Franciacorta Satèn Brut is wonderfully versatile at the table and shines as an aperitif or alongside refined dishes. Pair it with delicate seafood such as oysters, scallops, sashimi, or prawn tartare, as well as lightly fried fish, risotto with shellfish, creamy pasta with mushrooms, or mild soft cheeses like burrata and fresh goat cheese. Serve well‑chilled at around 6–8°C (43–46°F) to highlight its precision and freshness. Briefly chilling in an ice bucket before serving is ideal; decanting is not necessary, though pouring gently into tulip‑shaped sparkling wine glasses will best showcase its fine mousse and complex aromas.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCamossi is a quality‑driven family producer in Franciacorta, one of Italy’s most esteemed sparkling wine regions and often regarded as the country’s answer to Champagne. Working on a smaller, artisanal scale, the estate focuses on Chardonnay and Pinot‑based traditional‑method wines that express the nuances of their Lombard terroir. Over time, Camossi has built a reputation among enthusiasts for precise, elegant Franciacorta with particular strength in the Satèn style, demonstrating how carefully managed vineyards and thoughtful cellar work can yield sparkling wines of remarkable finesse and character.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Camossi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255130837329,"sku":"XW-27590","price":28.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/camossi-franciacorta-saten-brut_27590_1.jpg?v=1783456658"},{"product_id":"camilucci-franciacorta-saten-brut-ammonites","title":"Camilucci Franciacorta Saten Brut Ammonites","description":"\u003cp\u003eCamilucci Franciacorta Satèn Brut Ammonites is a refined expression of one of Italy’s most elegant sparkling wine styles. Crafted exclusively from white grapes in the heart of Lombardy’s Franciacorta region, this Satèn channels the silk-like finesse its name evokes. With its gentle, caressing bubbles and poised structure, it offers a uniquely graceful take on premium Italian sparkling wine, reserved only for wines born in Franciacorta.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, Ammonites Satèn Brut shows a bright, straw-yellow hue with fine, persistent perlage that forms a delicate and creamy mousse. The nose is scented and pure, opening with white flowers, acacia and jasmine, followed by notes of ripe pear, green apple and a touch of citrus zest, layered with hints of fresh brioche and almond.\n\nOn the palate, this Franciacorta is fresh yet soft, with a velvety mousse that glides gently across the tongue. The Chardonnay brings precision, citrus and orchard fruit, while Pinot Bianco adds suppleness and roundness. Flavours of crunchy apple, pear and stone fruit are framed by a subtle minerality and a refined, dry finish. Its balance of freshness and creaminess makes it immediately charming, yet it has the structure to evolve gracefully over the next 3–5 years, gaining added complexity and nuance.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eAmmonites Satèn Brut is born in the rolling hills of Franciacorta in Lombardy, where lake-influenced breezes, calcareous soils and a temperate climate create an ideal terroir for premium sparkling wines. Chardonnay and Pinot Bianco grapes are carefully hand-harvested to ensure pristine fruit and gentle handling from vineyard to cellar. In the winery, the base wines are fermented at controlled temperatures to preserve aromatics, then blended with precision before undergoing the traditional method (Metodo Classico) second fermentation in bottle. The lower bottling pressure typical of the Satèn style results in finer, softer bubbles and a silkier texture, followed by extended lees aging to build complexity and creaminess.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis Satèn is an excellent companion to refined, delicate dishes: think crudo, carpaccio of white fish, oysters, scallops, sushi, or lightly fried seafood. It also pairs beautifully with fresh goat cheeses, soft-ripened cheeses, vegetable tempura, risotto with shellfish or spring vegetables, and elegant poultry dishes. Serve well-chilled at 8–10°C (46–50°F) to highlight its freshness and floral-fruited character. A brief 5–10 minutes in the glass is all it needs; extended decanting is not necessary, but pouring into proper tulip-shaped sparkling wine glasses will best showcase its fine mousse and aromatic finesse.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCamilucci is a quality-driven producer based in Franciacorta, one of Italy’s most prestigious sparkling wine regions, acclaimed for Metodo Classico wines that rival the world’s finest. Rooted in Lombardy’s rolling vineyards, the estate focuses on Chardonnay and Pinot varieties, crafting wines that emphasize purity of fruit, terroir expression and elegance. Through meticulous work in the vineyard and cellar, Camilucci has become a respected name within Franciacorta, contributing to the appellation’s reputation for refined, complex sparkling wines that stand among Italy’s most noteworthy bottlings.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Camilucci","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255135949137,"sku":"XW-49960","price":30.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/camilucci-franciacorta-ammonites-saten-brut_49960_1_98071aa5-05db-40b0-be45-230489309f7b.webp?v=1783456661"},{"product_id":"cascina-san-pietro-franciacorta-pas-dose-cuvee-terre-dei-trici-2019","title":"Cascina San Pietro Franciacorta Pas Dose Cuvee Terre dei Trici 2019","description":"\u003cp\u003eCascina San Pietro Franciacorta Pas Dosé Cuvée Terre dei Trici 2019 is a refined, terroir-driven sparkling wine crafted entirely from carefully selected Chardonnay grapes. Made in the traditional method and bottled without dosage, it offers a pure, unadorned expression of Franciacorta and its limestone-rich hillsides in Lombardy, Italy. This cuvée celebrates the region’s long-standing tradition of high-quality sparkling wines, standing alongside some of the most respected metodo classico wines in Europe.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, Terre dei Trici 2019 presents a luminous straw-yellow hue with fine, persistent bubbles forming a delicate and continuous mousse. The nose is precise and elegant, offering notes of green apple, lemon zest, white peach and crunchy pear, layered with hints of white flowers, fresh bread crust, chalk and a subtle touch of hazelnut.\n\nOn the palate, this Pas Dosé is dry, linear and focused, with racy acidity and a clean mineral backbone that drives the wine from start to finish. Flavors of citrus, orchard fruit and a whisper of brioche unfold with time in the glass, leading to a long, saline and refreshingly crisp finish. The absence of dosage highlights its tension and precision, making it especially appealing to lovers of bone-dry sparkling wines. Enjoyable now for its vibrancy and energy, it also has the structure to develop added complexity over the next 3–5 years.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe grapes for Cascina San Pietro’s Terre dei Trici are sourced from Chardonnay vineyards in Franciacorta, where vines grow on morainic and calcareous soils that lend natural freshness and a distinct mineral edge to the wines. Harvest is typically carried out by hand to ensure only perfectly healthy, ripe bunches are selected for pressing. The base wine is produced using gentle whole-bunch pressing and cool fermentation to preserve aromatic purity, followed by secondary fermentation in bottle according to the traditional method. The wine then rests sur lattes on its lees for an extended period to gain texture and complexity before being released as Pas Dosé—without any added sugar at disgorgement—to faithfully reflect the character of the vintage and the terroir.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis Franciacorta Pas Dosé is a versatile partner at the table, ideal with oysters, scallops, sushi and sashimi, as well as crudo, tartare, or simply prepared white fish. It also complements fresh goat cheese, burrata with olive oil and sea salt, vegetable tempura, or light poultry dishes and risotti with seafood or spring vegetables. Serve well-chilled at around 6–8°C (43–46°F). A brief 10–15 minutes in the glass or an elegant, narrow decanter can help the wine open up aromatically, especially if served closer to cellar temperature.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCascina San Pietro is a quality-focused estate in Lombardy that has embraced the potential of Franciacorta to produce world-class traditional-method sparkling wines. Working in one of Italy’s most respected sparkling wine appellations, the winery places strong emphasis on expressing site and grape variety with clarity, favoring careful vineyard work and thoughtful cellar practices over heavy-handed intervention. While relatively small compared with some of the larger houses in the region, Cascina San Pietro has gained recognition among discerning drinkers for clean, precise and characterful cuvées like Terre dei Trici, which underline Franciacorta’s reputation as Italy’s answer to Champagne.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Cascina San Pietro","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255149023569,"sku":"XW-50158","price":30.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/cascina-san-pietro-franciacorta-pas-dose-cuvee-terre-dei-trici-2019_50158_1_eeade7fd-bbbf-43b6-beeb-c804ef6e3e69.webp?v=1783456694"},{"product_id":"cascina-san-pietro-franciacorta-brut","title":"Cascina San Pietro Franciacorta Brut","description":"\u003cp\u003eCascina San Pietro Franciacorta Brut is a refined Italian sparkling wine crafted entirely from Chardonnay, showcasing the elegant side of Lombardy’s famed Franciacorta region. This cuvée is designed for celebrations big and small, with enough energy and finesse to suit both intimate aperitifs and more high‑stakes, festive occasions. As a traditional‑method sparkling wine from one of Italy’s top sparkling appellations, it offers a serious alternative to Champagne while retaining a distinctly Italian character.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, this Franciacorta Brut shows a bright, straw-yellow hue with fine, persistent bubbles that form a delicate, lasting mousse. The nose is fresh and inviting, with notes of green apple, citrus peel, and white flowers, layered with hints of brioche, toasted almond, and a subtle mineral undertone typical of quality Chardonnay.\n\nOn the palate, it is dry, crisp, and vibrant, with lively acidity that keeps everything precise and refreshing. Flavors of lemon zest, ripe pear, and crunchy apple are supported by gentle autolytic notes—bread crust, biscuit, and a light nuttiness—adding complexity without weighing the wine down. The finish is clean and persistent, with a saline, mineral edge that invites another sip. Enjoy it now for its energy and freshness; with a couple of years of additional bottle age, it can gain more creaminess and complexity while retaining its backbone of acidity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCascina San Pietro sources Chardonnay from vineyards in the heart of Franciacorta, where a combination of morainic soils, good drainage, and moderating breezes from Lake Iseo help grapes achieve both ripeness and freshness. Grapes are typically harvested by hand to allow careful selection of healthy, perfectly mature bunches. After gentle pressing, the base wine is fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel to preserve aromatics and purity of fruit. The second fermentation takes place in the bottle, following the traditional method used in Champagne, and the wine rests on its lees for an extended period to develop fine bubbles, texture, and subtle notes of pastry and toast before disgorgement and final dosage as Brut.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis Franciacorta Brut is a versatile partner at the table and a superb aperitif. Pair it with fresh seafood such as oysters, prawns, and scallop crudo, or with delicate fish dishes, sushi, and ceviche. It also works beautifully alongside light appetizers, soft cheeses, vegetable tempura, and classic Italian antipasti like prosciutto and lightly aged cheeses. Serve well-chilled at around 6–8°C (43–46°F). A brief 5–10 minutes in the glass is enough to let the aromas open up; decanting is not necessary for this style.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCascina San Pietro is a quality-focused estate in Franciacorta, Lombardy’s flagship region for traditional-method sparkling wines. Working in a unique landscape of glacial moraines and rolling hills, the winery has built its reputation on expressing the finesse and tension that Chardonnay can achieve in this corner of northern Italy. While not among the largest producers in the area, Cascina San Pietro is appreciated locally for its careful vineyard work and its commitment to crafting expressive, terroir-driven cuvées. Their Franciacorta Brut serves as a calling card for the house style: precise, lively, and thoughtfully made, reflecting both regional tradition and a modern, detail-oriented approach to sparkling wine.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Cascina San Pietro","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255149187409,"sku":"XW-11270","price":24.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/cascina-san-pietro-franciacorta-brut_11270_1_2ca2307a-5f88-418b-a5c2-498ef894a429.webp?v=1783456697"},{"product_id":"castello-bonomi-franciacorta-blanc-de-blanc-brut-cuvee-22","title":"Castello Bonomi Franciacorta Blanc de Blanc Brut Cuvee 22","description":"\u003cp\u003eCastello Bonomi Franciacorta Blanc de Blanc Brut Cuvée 22 is a refined Italian sparkling wine crafted exclusively from Chardonnay grown on carefully selected hillside vineyards in Lombardy. Made in the classic méthode traditionnelle and aged on the lees, it offers an elegant, mineral-driven expression of Franciacorta with a focus on purity, finesse and drinkability. This cuvée takes its name from the 22 distinct Chardonnay selections used, each chosen to highlight different nuances of altitude, soil and exposure in the estate’s vineyards.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, Cuvée 22 shows a bright, luminous straw-yellow color with delicate, persistent bubbles that form a fine, creamy mousse. On the nose, it opens with notes of lemon zest, green apple and crisp pear, followed by hints of white flowers, fresh brioche, almond and a subtle chalky minerality that reflects its hillside origins.\n\nThe palate is dry, vibrant and precise, with a lively acidity that keeps the wine beautifully fresh and linear. Flavors of citrus and orchard fruits are layered with nuances of toasted bread, hazelnut and a gentle, savory saltiness. The mousse is refined and silky, lending a sense of elegance and length to the finish. Enjoy it now for its energy and brightness, or cellar it for 3–5 years to allow the tertiary, toasty and nutty notes to develop further.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe Chardonnay for Blanc de Blanc Brut Cuvée 22 comes from 22 rigorously selected vineyard parcels in the rolling hills of Franciacorta, Lombardy. These sites are chosen for their altitude, exposure and soil morphology—typically morainic and limestone-rich soils that provide excellent drainage and impart tension and minerality to the wine. Grapes are harvested by hand at optimal ripeness to preserve freshness and aromatic complexity. After gentle pressing, the base wines ferment in temperature-controlled tanks (with a portion sometimes refined in oak, depending on vintage conditions) before being blended into the final cuvée. The second fermentation takes place in bottle following the traditional Franciacorta method, with an extended period of aging on the lees to build texture, complexity and a fine, persistent perlage, before disgorgement and dosage at Brut level.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis Franciacorta Blanc de Blanc is a versatile partner at the table, ideal as an aperitif and excellent with delicate dishes. Pair it with oysters, shellfish, sushi and sashimi, or classic Italian antipasti such as bresaola, carpaccio, burrata and lightly aged cheeses. It also complements fish crudo, tempura, risotto with seafood, and herb-roasted poultry. Serve well-chilled at 6–8°C (43–46°F) in a tulip-shaped sparkling wine glass to emphasize both aromatics and finesse. A brief 10–15 minutes in the glass is enough to let it open; extended decanting is not necessary, but pouring into proper stemware rather than a flute will enhance its complexity.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCastello Bonomi is a boutique Franciacorta estate nestled on the slopes of Monte Orfano in Lombardy, a unique subzone known for its particularly favorable microclimate and mineral-rich soils. The winery takes its name from the historic castle that crowns the property, and over the years it has built a reputation for precision, terroir-driven sparkling wines made exclusively with the traditional method. As one of the quality-focused producers in Franciacorta, Castello Bonomi is recognized for its meticulous vineyard work, selective harvesting and long lees aging, factors that consistently yield wines of depth, elegance and regional character. The Cuvée 22 line underscores the estate’s commitment to showcasing the nuances of Chardonnay from carefully chosen, high-potential parcels across its holdings.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Castello Bonomi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255149515089,"sku":"XW-21402","price":28.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/castello-bonomi-franciacorta-blanc-de-blanc-brut-cuvee-22_21402_1_e8ce6ade-49fd-4040-86c1-c826a583858e.webp?v=1783456702"},{"product_id":"castello-bonomi-franciacorta-etichetta-nera-extra-brut-riserva-lucrezia-2011","title":"Castello Bonomi Franciacorta Etichetta Nera Extra Brut Riserva Lucrezia 2011","description":"\u003cp\u003eCastello Bonomi’s Franciacorta Etichetta Nera Extra Brut Riserva Lucrezia 2011 is a benchmark sparkling wine from one of Franciacorta’s most highly regarded producers. Made entirely from Pinot Noir and released only after extended lees aging, it combines precision, depth, and remarkable longevity in a wine that has earned some of Italy’s most prestigious accolades.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, it shows a refined, elegant mousse with a luminous golden hue and fine, persistent bubbles. The nose is layered and complex, with notes of ripe citrus, white flowers, toasted bread, hazelnut, and subtle hints of orchard fruit and spice.\n\nOn the palate, it is dry, focused, and beautifully structured, with the richness of Pinot Noir balanced by vibrant freshness and a savory, mineral finish. The long aging brings added complexity and depth, and this Riserva has the concentration and balance to continue evolving gracefully over time.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eProduced in the rolling hills of Franciacorta in Lombardy, where the cool climate and mineral-rich soils help preserve freshness and aromatic precision, this wine comes from a meticulous selection of Pinot Noir grapes. Harvesting is done by hand to ensure only the healthiest bunches are used, followed by traditional sparkling-wine vinification and extended bottle aging to build texture, complexity, and finesse.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis Franciacorta pairs beautifully with refined dishes such as shellfish, oysters, sashimi, roast poultry, risotto, and aged hard cheeses. Serve chilled at around 8–10°C, and consider brief decanting only if you want to gently open its more complex aromatic layers—though it is generally best enjoyed straight from the bottle.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCastello Bonomi is one of the standout names in Franciacorta, known for combining precision winemaking with a deep respect for the character of the region. The estate has built a strong reputation for producing some of the area’s most awarded sparkling wines, including multiple top Italian wine-guide recognitions, and Lucrezia has become one of its flagship expressions.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Castello Bonomi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255150170449,"sku":"XW-56955","price":86.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/castello-bonomi-franciacorta-etichetta-nera-extra-brut-riserva-lucrezia-2011_56955_1_7764348b-1bbf-43f1-91e2-9b38d3bab113.webp?v=1783456704"},{"product_id":"castello-bonomi-franciacorta-riserva-extra-brut-lucrezia-etichetta-bianca-2009","title":"Castello Bonomi Franciacorta Riserva Extra Brut Lucrezia Etichetta Bianca 2009","description":"\u003cp\u003eCastello Bonomi Franciacorta Riserva Extra Brut Lucrezia Etichetta Bianca 2009 is a refined sparkling wine from the heart of Lombardy, crafted to express both power and elegance in the glass. Made from Pinot Nero and Chardonnay, this Franciacorta offers an ever-evolving aromatic profile and a structure built for longevity. As a Riserva Extra Brut, it sits at the pinnacle of the Franciacorta quality pyramid, showcasing the region’s ability to rival the world’s greatest traditional-method sparkling wines.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, this Franciacorta shows a luminous straw-gold hue with subtle copper reflections and a fine, persistent mousse. The bubbles are delicate yet energetic, forming a continuous, elegant bead that speaks to careful, extended maturation. On the nose, the wine is complex and constantly unfolding: layered notes of citrus zest, ripe orchard fruits, and white flowers mingle with hints of toasted brioche, hazelnut, and subtle spice. As it opens, additional nuances of honey, dried herbs, and mineral tones gradually emerge, keeping the bouquet intriguing from first pour to last sip.\n\nThe palate is dry and precise, with a taut, vibrant acidity that immediately conveys depth and structure. Flavors of lemon curd, green apple, and pear interplay with more evolved notes of pastry cream, roasted almonds, and a touch of salinity. The texture is creamy yet focused, supported by a firm backbone from Pinot Nero and the finesse of Chardonnay. The finish is long, savory, and chalky, leaving impressions of citrus, toasted nuts, and fine minerality. Thanks to its vivid acidity and concentrated fruit, this 2009 Riserva has excellent aging potential and will continue to develop greater complexity and tertiary notes over the coming years.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCastello Bonomi sits in the hilly subzone of Lombardy’s Franciacorta area, where vineyards benefit from a combination of limestone-rich soils, good drainage, and cooling breezes from nearby lakes and foothills. These conditions help preserve acidity while allowing Pinot Nero and Chardonnay to ripen slowly and evenly. Grapes destined for this Riserva are typically harvested by hand, with strict selection to ensure only the healthiest and most expressive clusters are used. The wine is produced using the traditional method: after an initial fermentation, the base wines are blended and bottled for the secondary fermentation, where they mature for an extended period on the lees to develop complexity, fine bubbles, and rich autolytic character. The Extra Brut dosage keeps the wine firmly on the drier side, emphasizing terroir, structure, and purity over sweetness.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis Franciacorta Riserva Extra Brut is a superb match for refined seafood dishes such as oysters, scallops, lobster, and delicate white fish, as well as sushi and sashimi where its acidity and minerality provide perfect contrast. It also pairs beautifully with aged cheeses, truffle-accented dishes, poultry, and creamy risottos, particularly those featuring mushrooms or shellfish. Serve chilled at around 8–10°C (46–50°F) to highlight its freshness while allowing the complexity to emerge as it warms in the glass. Decanting is not essential, but opening the bottle a few minutes before serving and pouring into larger white wine or sparkling wine glasses will help the aromas unfold more fully.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCastello Bonomi is a respected estate in the Franciacorta region, known for combining historical charm with meticulous, quality-driven winemaking. The property, centered around a picturesque castle, has become a benchmark producer in Lombardy for traditional-method sparkling wines that express both place and vintage. Over the years, Castello Bonomi has earned recognition for its focus on low yields, careful grape selection, and long lees aging, all of which contribute to wines of notable depth and finesse. Its Franciacorta Riservas, such as the Lucrezia Etichetta Bianca, underscore the estate’s reputation as one of the key names helping elevate Franciacorta’s status on the international fine wine stage.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Castello Bonomi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255150203217,"sku":"XW-52642","price":71.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/castello-bonomi-franciacorta-riserva-extra-brut-lucrezia-etichetta-bianca-2009_52642_1_bb048dcc-9815-473e-a9be-06869375346e.webp?v=1783456705"},{"product_id":"castello-del-poggio-oltrenero-oltrepo-pavese-pinot-nero-metodo-classico-brut","title":"Castello del Poggio Oltrenero Oltrepo Pavese Pinot Nero Metodo Classico Brut","description":"\u003cp\u003eCastello del Poggio Oltrenero Oltrepò Pavese Pinot Nero Metodo Classico Brut is a refined sparkling wine from one of Italy’s most respected Pinot Noir regions. Made in the traditional method, it brings together finesse, elegance, and the hallmark freshness that has made Oltrepò Pavese a benchmark for quality sparkling wines in Lombardy.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePale straw in colour with a fine, persistent mousse, this Brut shows a bright and polished appearance in the glass. The nose is fresh and expressive, with notes of green apple, citrus peel, white flowers, and subtle hints of brioche and almond from bottle ageing.\n\nOn the palate it is crisp and well balanced, with lively acidity, delicate fruit, and a clean mineral finish. The Pinot Noir character adds structure and depth without overwhelming the wine’s freshness. Enjoy now for its energy and precision, though it can also develop a little more complexity with short-term cellaring.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSourced from the Oltrepò Pavese area in Lombardy, a historic terroir especially well suited to Pinot Noir, this sparkling wine reflects cool-climate conditions and a long tradition of method-classic production. Grapes are typically harvested by hand to preserve freshness and quality, then vinified with a second fermentation in bottle, followed by ageing on the lees to build texture, aromatic complexity, and a refined mousse.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIdeal as an aperitif, this Brut also pairs beautifully with oysters, prawns, sushi, light seafood dishes, and delicate risottos. Serve well chilled at 6–8°C to showcase its freshness and finesse. Decanting is not recommended; simply open shortly before serving to enjoy its liveliness at its best.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCastello del Poggio is a well-known Italian producer with a strong reputation for approachable yet carefully made wines that highlight regional character. Its wines from Lombardy and other Italian regions reflect an emphasis on quality, style, and consistency, with the Oltrepò Pavese sparkling wines standing out as a particularly distinctive expression of the estate’s range.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Bottle Hero","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255150301521,"sku":"XW-29684","price":25.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/castello-del-poggio-oltrenero-oltrepo-pavese-metodo-classico-brut_29684_1.jpg?v=1783456708"},{"product_id":"castello-di-cigognola-per-papa-2016","title":"Castello di Cigognola Per Papa 2016","description":"\u003cp\u003eCastello di Cigognola Per Papa 2016 is a refined, terroir-driven Nebbiolo that shines a spotlight on Lombardy’s ability to rival its more famous Piedmont neighbors. Crafted in limited quantities, it’s a deeply expressive red that balances structure, elegance and aromatic complexity. Named “Per Papa” as a tribute wine, it encapsulates both personal heritage and the historic soul of the estate’s hillside vineyards.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, Per Papa 2016 shows a luminous garnet core with brick-orange highlights along the rim, a classic hue for well-developed Nebbiolo. The nose opens with rose petals, dried violets and sour cherry, followed by layers of blood orange, sweet tobacco, leather and a subtle hint of licorice and underbrush.\n\nOn the palate, this is a noble, finely etched wine: medium-bodied yet firm, with precise acidity and polished, long-grained tannins. Flavors of red cherry, wild strawberry and dried raspberry intertwine with notes of cedar, balsamic herbs, spice box and a touch of earthy minerality. The finish is long, savory and persistent, promising further complexity with cellaring. While already approachable with proper aeration, the 2016 vintage still has several years of positive evolution ahead, rewarding careful aging for another 6–10 years, depending on storage conditions.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCastello di Cigognola sits among the rolling hills of Oltrepò Pavese in Lombardy, an area blessed with calcareous-clay soils, good elevation and a strong diurnal shift that suits Nebbiolo beautifully. Grapes for Per Papa are typically hand-harvested at optimal ripeness to ensure precise selection in the vineyard, preserving both aromatic purity and structural integrity. After gentle crushing, the must undergoes a controlled fermentation with extended maceration on the skins to extract color, tannin and the varietal’s signature perfume. The wine is then aged in carefully chosen oak—often a mix of larger casks and\/or barriques—to refine the tannins and add subtle spice, without overwhelming the grape’s floral and mineral-driven character. Bottling follows a period of rest in the cellar, allowing the elements to knit together before release.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003ePer Papa 2016 is a versatile food wine, ideal with classic Northern Italian dishes such as braised veal shank (ossobuco), slow-cooked beef cheeks, or rich ragù over fresh egg pasta. It also marries beautifully with mushroom risotto, truffle-based dishes, aged hard cheeses and game birds like duck or guinea fowl. Serve at 16–18°C (60–64°F) to highlight its aromatics and balance. Decanting for 1–2 hours is recommended, especially in its youth, to soften the tannins and allow the more delicate floral and spice notes to fully emerge.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCastello di Cigognola is an historic estate in Lombardy’s Oltrepò Pavese, centered around a medieval castle that has watched over vineyards for centuries. In recent decades, the property has undergone a qualitative renaissance, with a strong focus on terroir expression and meticulous vineyard work, positioning it as one of the key quality-driven players in the region. The winery is known for elevating local varieties and demonstrating that Oltrepò Pavese can produce reds of real finesse and longevity. Through cuvées like Per Papa, Castello di Cigognola has gained increasing recognition in Italy and abroad, helping to redefine Lombardy’s image as a serious source of distinctive, site-specific Nebbiolo.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Castello di Cigognola","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255150760273,"sku":"XW-35965","price":40.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/castello-di-cigognola-per-papa-2016_35965_1.jpg?v=1783456714"},{"product_id":"cherubini-subsidium-brut-nature","title":"Cherubini Subsidium Brut Nature","description":"\u003cp\u003eCherubini Subsidium Brut Nature is a refined Lombardy sparkling wine that showcases the elegance and precision for which the region is increasingly admired. With its zero-dosage style, it offers a pure, bone-dry expression that highlights freshness, structure, and a distinctly food-friendly profile.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, this Brut Nature typically shows a bright, pale straw color with a lively, delicate mousse. The nose is clean and focused, with notes of citrus, green apple, white flowers, and a subtle mineral edge.\n\nOn the palate, it is crisp and linear, with taut acidity, fine bubbles, and a dry finish that emphasizes freshness over fruit sweetness. The absence of added dosage gives it a particularly transparent, high-definition style. While enjoyable young for its vitality, well-made Brut Nature sparkling wines can also gain complexity with short-term cellaring.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eProduced in Lombardy, a region well suited to sparkling wine thanks to its cool climate and varied soils, Subsidium Brut Nature is crafted to express precision and purity. Harvesting is typically done by hand to preserve grape integrity, and vinification focuses on maintaining freshness, with careful fermentation and secondary bottle fermentation to build finesse and texture while keeping the style completely dry.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis wine pairs especially well with oysters, shellfish, sushi, light white fish, tempura, and delicate poultry dishes. Serve well chilled at around 6–8°C, and decanting is not recommended; instead, open it just before serving to preserve the wine’s delicate mousse and freshness.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCherubini is a Lombardy producer associated with elegant sparkling wines that reflect both regional character and a modern, quality-driven approach. While detailed historical background on the estate is limited, the winery’s style aligns with the growing prestige of Lombardy as one of Italy’s most respected sparkling wine regions.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Cherubini","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255156887889,"sku":"XW-55097","price":49.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/cherubini-subsidium-brut-nature_55097_1_aff1f286-25f6-4a33-9e66-29f9fdee082c.webp?v=1783456775"},{"product_id":"cherubini-exceptis-blanc-de-noirs-dosaggio-zero","title":"Cherubini Exceptis Blanc de Noirs Dosaggio Zero","description":"\u003cp\u003eCherubini Exceptis Blanc de Noirs Dosaggio Zero is a refined Lombardy sparkling wine crafted in a pure, uncompromising style with no dosage, allowing the character of the fruit and the finesse of the bubbles to shine through. Made as a Blanc de Noirs, it offers the depth and structure you expect from black grapes, while maintaining a clean, precise, and elegant profile that appeals to lovers of dry, mineral-driven sparkling wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, it typically shows a bright pale straw color with a persistent, fine mousse. The nose is fresh and focused, often suggesting citrus peel, green apple, white flowers, and subtle toasted or bready nuances from lees ageing.\n\nOn the palate, it is crisp, dry, and linear, with lively acidity and a taut mineral finish. The lack of dosage keeps the wine especially pure and expressive, making it a great choice for those who enjoy a more serious, gastronomic sparkling style. It should drink beautifully now, while its structure and freshness may also reward short-term cellar ageing.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eProduced in Lombardy, a region known for its diverse terroirs and strong tradition of quality sparkling wine, this Blanc de Noirs reflects careful vineyard selection and restrained winemaking. Dosaggio Zero indicates that no sugar was added after disgorgement, highlighting the wine’s natural balance, precision, and terroir expression. The style suggests a production method focused on harvesting healthy, perfectly ripe grapes and vinifying the base wine with great attention to purity and detail.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis wine is excellent as an aperitif and also pairs naturally with oysters, sushi, seafood crudo, tempura, light white meats, and delicate risottos. Serve well chilled, ideally around 6–8°C, and decanting is not recommended; instead, open shortly before serving to preserve freshness and mousse.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCherubini is a Lombardy producer associated with sparkling wines that emphasize precision, elegance, and regional character. While detailed historical information is limited, the house is represented here by a style that reflects the growing reputation of Lombardy as one of Italy’s most important areas for high-quality sparkling wine, particularly in refined, dry expressions.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Cherubini","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255156920657,"sku":"XW-55095","price":51.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/cherubini-exceptis-blanc-de-noirs-dosaggio-zero_55095_1_921a0d92-51fa-455f-bb93-f27385be7301.webp?v=1783456775"},{"product_id":"cherubini-sui-generis-brut-nature","title":"Cherubini Sui Generis Brut Nature","description":"\u003cp\u003eCherubini Sui Generis Brut Nature is a refined Italian sparkling wine crafted from 100% Chardonnay in the heart of Lombardy. Dry, precise, and elegantly expressive, it’s designed for those who appreciate purity of fruit and a clean, mineral-driven style. With zero dosage (no added sugar), this Brut Nature highlights the character of its terroir and the meticulous approach of Cherubini.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, Sui Generis Brut Nature shows a bright, pale straw-yellow hue with fine, persistent bubbles that form a delicate mousse. The nose is vibrant and focused, offering notes of green apple, lemon zest, white flowers, and subtle hints of fresh bread and chalky minerality.\n\nOn the palate, it is dry and linear with a taut, refreshing acidity that keeps everything in perfect balance. Flavors of crisp pear, citrus, and green almond unfold alongside delicate brioche and a saline, stony edge typical of quality Lombardy sparkling wines. The finish is long, clean, and mouthwatering, emphasizing its Brut Nature style. Best enjoyed within a few years of release for its freshness and energy, though a short period of bottle aging can add extra complexity and creaminess.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCherubini Sui Generis Brut Nature is born from Chardonnay vines rooted in Lombardy’s mineral-rich soils, where a mix of calcareous and morainic deposits, along with a temperate climate, lends natural freshness and structure to the grapes. Harvesting is typically done by hand to ensure only healthy, perfectly ripe berries are selected, preserving delicate aromatics. After gentle pressing, the base wine undergoes a controlled fermentation to retain purity and tension, followed by a traditional secondary fermentation in bottle. It then rests on its lees to develop texture and subtle autolytic notes, before being disgorged without dosage, resulting in a Brut Nature that is both precise and terroir-driven.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis Brut Nature is a superb choice as an aperitif and pairs beautifully with oysters, crudo, sushi, and delicate seafood dishes such as scallop carpaccio or steamed shellfish. It also works well with fresh goat cheese, lightly fried appetizers, and vegetable-based starters where you want a wine that refreshes without overwhelming. Serve well-chilled at around 6–8°C (43–46°F). Decanting is not necessary, but opening the bottle a few minutes before serving and using quality flutes or white wine glasses will help the aromatics unfold.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eCherubini is an Italian producer based in Lombardy, a region that has become one of Italy’s benchmarks for high-quality sparkling wines. Drawing on the area’s cool climate and diverse soils, Cherubini focuses on crafting characterful, precise expressions of Chardonnay and other classic varieties. While relatively small in scale, the estate emphasizes careful vineyard work and thoughtful cellar practices, positioning itself among the new-wave producers elevating Lombardy’s reputation for premium, traditionally made sparkling wines.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Cherubini","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255157018961,"sku":"XW-51192","price":35.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/cherubini-sui-generis-brut-nature_51192_1_34f090b3-0a95-49fa-80fb-4ead16587d93.webp?v=1783456776"},{"product_id":"contadi-castaldi-franciacorta-blanc-extra-brut-2020","title":"Contadi Castaldi Franciacorta Blanc Extra Brut 2020","description":"\u003cp\u003eContadi Castaldi Franciacorta Blanc Extra Brut 2020 is a refined, modern expression of Lombardy’s iconic sparkling wine, crafted from Chardonnay and Pinot Blanc with a focus on purity, precision, and balance. The name ‘20\/37’ captures its philosophy beautifully: a wine shaped by careful selection and by vineyards that have given their fruit for decades, resulting in a Franciacorta that feels both contemporary and deeply rooted in time-honored craftsmanship.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, this Blanc Extra Brut shows a bright, elegant profile with a fine, persistent mousse and a luminous straw-yellow color. On the nose, it leans toward fresh citrus, green apple, white flowers, and delicate mineral notes, with subtle hints of almond and pastry adding complexity.\n\nThe palate is crisp and incisive, with a dry Extra Brut style that highlights tension, clarity, and a clean, refined finish. Chardonnay brings finesse and structure, while Pinot Blanc adds lift and softness, creating a wine that balances freshness with depth. It has excellent appeal now for its precision and poise, while the underlying structure suggests it can develop further in bottle over the next few years.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eProduced in Franciacorta, Lombardy, this wine draws on carefully selected vineyards, including older sites that contribute concentration and character to the blend. The ‘20\/37’ concept reflects a meticulous approach to harvesting, with multiple selections made to ensure only the best fruit is used, emphasizing the dialogue between skilled winemaking and mature vineyard material. Vinification is guided by the pursuit of purity and complexity, resulting in a sparkling wine that combines mineral freshness with layered detail.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis is an excellent aperitif wine, but it also pairs beautifully with oysters, shellfish, sashimi, tempura, light seafood pastas, and delicate white meats. Serve well chilled at around 6–8°C to preserve its crispness and fine mousse; decanting is not recommended for sparkling wine.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eContadi Castaldi is one of Franciacorta’s most recognizable producers, known for combining modern energy with the traditional method that defines the region. Based in Lombardy, the winery has built a strong reputation for expressive, meticulously made sparkling wines that highlight both elegance and regional identity. Its wines are widely appreciated for their balance of freshness, structure, and consistency.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Contadi Castaldi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255158821201,"sku":"XW-54817","price":30.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/contadi-castaldi-franciacorta-blanc-extra-brut-2020_54817_1_56b63236-9b4f-4fad-ac6d-7d45f45b9f9e.webp?v=1783456800"},{"product_id":"contadi-castaldi-franciacorta-brut","title":"Contadi Castaldi Franciacorta Brut","description":"\u003cp\u003eContadi Castaldi Franciacorta Brut is a vibrant Italian sparkling wine from Lombardy, crafted in the traditional method and designed to bring energy and elegance to the glass. Blending Chardonnay, Pinot Bianco and Pinot Nero, it captures the brightness and finesse that have made Franciacorta Italy’s most prestigious sparkling wine region. This non-vintage cuvée is a signature expression of the estate’s philosophy: interpreting the local terroir through meticulous blending to create a wine that is both refined and joyfully expressive.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, this Franciacorta Brut shows a bright straw-yellow hue with fine, persistent bubbles forming a delicate, continuous mousse. The nose opens with fresh citrus—lemon zest and grapefruit—alongside green apple, white flowers and hints of almond and brioche, reflecting its time on the lees.\n\nOn the palate, it is dry, crisp and well-balanced, with a lively acidity that lifts flavors of pear, golden apple, citrus and subtle stone fruit. Notes of toasted bread, hazelnut and a gentle creaminess add depth without weighing the wine down, leading to a clean, mineral-driven finish. As a non-vintage Franciacorta, it is crafted for immediate enjoyment but can comfortably evolve for a few years in bottle, gaining a touch more complexity and softness over time.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThe grapes for Contadi Castaldi Franciacorta Brut come from carefully selected vineyards in Franciacorta, in Lombardy, where the rolling hills and mineral-rich glacial soils give natural freshness and structure to the fruit. Chardonnay forms the core of the blend, supported by Pinot Bianco for finesse and Pinot Nero for backbone and subtle red-fruit nuance. The grapes are typically harvested by hand to ensure only healthy, perfectly ripe bunches reach the winery. After gentle pressing, the base wines ferment separately in stainless steel (and in some vintages partly in oak) before being blended to achieve the house style. The second fermentation takes place in the bottle, following the traditional method, with an extended period of aging on the lees to build texture, complexity and the fine bead that characterizes quality Franciacorta. After disgorgement, a carefully judged dosage results in a balanced Brut expression.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis Franciacorta Brut is an excellent aperitif and pairs beautifully with a wide range of dishes. Try it with oysters, shellfish, sushi and sashimi, or delicate fish crudo; it also works well with light antipasti, tempura, fresh goat cheese, and simple pasta or risotto based on vegetables or seafood. Its freshness and fine bubbles make it a versatile choice for canapés and celebratory occasions. Serve well-chilled at around 6–8°C (43–46°F). Decanting is not necessary, but opening the bottle a few minutes before serving and pouring into proper sparkling wine flutes or tulip-shaped glasses will help the aromas fully express themselves.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eContadi Castaldi is a respected producer in Franciacorta, based in the heart of Lombardy’s premier sparkling wine region. The estate’s name recalls the area’s historical roots, when local lands (le “contadi”) were managed by noble land stewards (i “castaldi”), underscoring the deep connection between vineyard, landscape and people. Established with a modern, quality-focused vision, Contadi Castaldi has become known for its precise, contemporary expressions of Franciacorta, especially its expertly blended non-vintage cuvées. By combining traditional-method craftsmanship with careful vineyard sourcing and an innovative approach to blending, the winery has helped to elevate Franciacorta’s reputation both in Italy and internationally as a serious alternative to Champagne.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Contadi Castaldi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255158853969,"sku":"XW-1253","price":19.5,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/contadi-castaldi-franciacorta-brut_1253_1_b3101c8e-8e9a-4910-bdac-c6fa8095eea2.webp?v=1783456800"},{"product_id":"contadi-castaldi-franciacorta-brut-race-ducati-corse","title":"Contadi Castaldi Franciacorta Brut Race Ducati Corse","description":"\u003cp\u003eContadi Castaldi Franciacorta Brut Race Ducati Corse is a dynamic Italian sparkling wine that brings together the precision of winemaking and the thrill of motorsport. Crafted in partnership with Ducati Corse, it celebrates the spirit of innovation, speed, and Italian excellence in every fine bead of bubbles. This Franciacorta offers the finesse of traditional-method sparkling wine with a bold, contemporary edge that mirrors Ducati’s racing heritage.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eTasting Notes\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eIn the glass, this Franciacorta shows a bright straw-yellow hue with delicate, persistent bubbles forming a fine, creamy mousse. The nose opens with fresh notes of green apple, pear, and citrus zest, layered with hints of white flowers, brioche, and a subtle mineral touch.\n\nOn the palate, it is crisp and vibrant, balancing lively acidity with a supple, rounded texture. Flavors of lemon curd, crunchy orchard fruit, and a trace of stone fruit are supported by gentle toasty nuances from time spent on the lees. The finish is clean, refreshing, and distinctly dry, leaving a lingering sense of citrus and chalky minerality. Best enjoyed within a few years of release for its energy and freshness, though it can develop additional complexity over 3–5 years of careful cellaring.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProduction\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eSourced from carefully selected vineyards in Lombardy’s Franciacorta region, the grapes benefit from a cool climate, well-drained morainic soils, and significant day–night temperature swings that help preserve acidity and aromatic purity. Chardonnay brings elegance and fragrance, Pinot Nero adds structure and depth, while Pinot Bianco contributes finesse and a subtle floral lift. Grapes are generally harvested by hand to ensure optimal selection and gentle handling in the cellar. After a soft pressing, the base wines ferment in temperature-controlled stainless steel, and in some cases partially in oak, before being blended to achieve the house style. The wine then undergoes its second fermentation in the bottle following the traditional method, maturing on the lees for an extended period to build complexity, texture, and fine, persistent bubbles before disgorgement and dosage.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eFood \u0026amp; Serving\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eThis Franciacorta Brut is a versatile partner at the table, ideal as an aperitif but also excellent throughout a meal. Pair it with fresh seafood such as oysters, shrimp, ceviche, or sushi, as well as delicate fish dishes, risotto with shellfish, and light poultry preparations. It also complements charcuterie, soft cheeses, and crisp vegetable tempura. Serve well-chilled at around 6–8°C (43–46°F). Decanting is not necessary; simply open the bottle a few minutes before serving to allow the aromas to unfurl in the glass.\u003c\/p\u003e\u003cp\u003e\u003cstrong\u003eProducer\u003c\/strong\u003e\u003cbr\u003eContadi Castaldi is one of the key names in Franciacorta, born from a vision to reinterpret this prestigious sparkling wine region with a modern, exploratory spirit. The winery takes its name from the ancient ‘contadi’ (counties) and ‘castaldi’ (stewards) who once oversaw these lands, a nod to its roots in Lombardy’s agricultural and cultural history. Today, Contadi Castaldi is recognized for its innovative approach, meticulous vineyard work, and a style that emphasizes freshness, precision, and drinkability. Collaborations like the Ducati Corse edition underline the estate’s commitment to contemporary Italian culture, bringing together two icons of craftsmanship—fine wine and racing engineering—from the heart of Italy.\u003c\/p\u003e","brand":"Contadi Castaldi","offers":[{"title":"Default Title","offer_id":54255158886737,"sku":"XW-54808","price":24.0,"currency_code":"EUR","in_stock":true}],"thumbnail_url":"\/\/cdn.shopify.com\/s\/files\/1\/0874\/0614\/9969\/files\/contadi-castaldi-franciacorta-brut-race-ducati-corse_54808_1_c3f127fa-ca36-42a0-a33d-4ad5251cc156.webp?v=1783456802"}],"url":"https:\/\/bottlehero.com\/collections\/lombardy.oembed?page=3","provider":"Bottle Hero","version":"1.0","type":"link"}