Franciacorta 101: Italy’s Champagne Rival & When to Choose It Over Prosecco
Franciacorta is Italy’s best-kept sparkling wine secret, made in the traditional Champagne method. Learn how it compares to Prosecco and which bottles to try.
Contadi Castaldi Brut Franciacorta NV
There are many common mistakes and misconceptions you get to witness as a wine professional, and we always try to handle them with grace, but one hill I’m willing to die on is Italian bubbles:
Many wine lovers often refer to Prosecco as the “Champagne of Italy”, but this is a misleading comparison. While Prosecco is a widely popular sparkling wine, it is produced using the Charmat method, a bulk fermentation process that prioritizes freshness and fruit-forward characteristics. The wines are meant to be enjoyed young and often as an aperitif or in cocktails.
In contrast, Italy’s true answer to Champagne is Franciacorta — a sparkling wine made exclusively using the traditional method (Metodo Classico), the same labor-intensive process used in Champagne. Not only does Franciacorta have stricter production regulations than Prosecco, but in many cases, it rivals some of France’s finest Champagnes in complexity, aging potential, and terroir-driven expression. Despite its prestige at home, Franciacorta remains one of Italy’s best-kept secrets.
Image generated using Wine Maps Pro (http://www.winemapsapp.co.uk). Copyright ©️ Jon Lord (© OpenStreetMap contributors).
Franciacorta is located in Lombardy, in northern Italy, nestled between Lake Iseo to the north and the Po Valley to the south. The region spans approximately 2,800 hectares and is characterized by rolling hills and a temperate continental climate, heavily influenced by its proximity to Lake Iseo, which helps regulate temperatures. Cool breezes from the lake reduce the risk of extreme heat in the summer while also preventing frost in the colder months. This creates an ideal environment for growing high-quality Chardonnay, Pinot Nero (Pinot Noir), and Pinot Bianco (Pinot Blanc), the principal grape varieties used in Franciacorta production.
The soils of Franciacorta are diverse, largely due to the region’s glacial history. During the Ice Age, glaciers carved out the landscape, depositing mineral-rich morainic soils. These soils are generally Morainic (rich in sand, gravel, and mineral deposits, offering excellent drainage and contributing to the wines’ elegance and minerality) and Clay/Limestone (adds structure and depth — Limestone is found in all the greatest wine-producing regions).
How is Franciacorta Made?
Metodo Classico explained
Franciacorta is produced exclusively using the Metodo Classico, the same traditional method used in Champagne. This involves secondary fermentation in the bottle, a process that enhances complexity, texture, and longevity, as well as traps CO2 in the bottle to produce the bubbles. Grapes are harvested by hand, typically in late August to early September, to ensure optimal acidity. The grapes are then whole-cluster pressed to extract the juice without getting too much tannic influence (the skins, seeds, and stems will add to the drying mouthfeel some wines give). The juice will undergo its first fermentation in a large vessel (stainless, oak, or even concrete!). This process converts sugar into alcohol while preserving the fresh fruit and floral aromas.
The wine is then blended (the French refer to this process as Assemblage) from different base wines — maybe from different vineyards and often from different vintages (NV=“non-vintage”) in order to maintain a consistent style over the years. If the wine comes from a single production year, the Franciacorta may be labeled “Millesimato”.
The Assemblage is bottled with a mixture of yeast and sugar known as the Liqueur de Tirage. The yeast and sugar mixture triggers a secondary fermentation in the bottle in which the resulting carbon dioxide (fermentation 101: yeast+sugar = alcohol+CO2) is trapped inside the bottle creating natural effervescence.
Fun Fact: a sparkling wine cork starts its life looking much like a traditional cork. The mushroom shape forms because the pressure inside the bottle pushes against the cork, which is held in place by the muselet (wire cage).
The wine must then age on the lees (dead yeast cells) for a minimum of 18 months for standard Franciacorta DOCG, though many producers extend aging for greater complexity. During this time the bottles are rotated gradually (riddling) to move the yeast sediment toward the neck. The sediment is then frozen, the bottle opened, and the lees are expelled in a sometimes messy procedure known as disgorgement. A final dosage (mixture of wine and sugar) is added, depending on the desired sweetness level.
Franciacorta comes in several styles, each defined by aging requirements and permitted grape varieties.
1. Franciacorta DOCG
• Aging: Minimum 18 months on lees.
• Grapes: Chardonnay, Pinot Nero, up to 50% Pinot Bianco.
• Style: Fresh, elegant, and fruit-driven.
2. Franciacorta Satèn
• Aging: Minimum 24 months on lees.
• Grapes: Only white grapes (Chardonnay and Pinot Bianco up to 50%).
• Style: Softer, creamier, with lower atmospheric pressure (around 5 bars instead of 6).
• Exclusive to Franciacorta — no other region produces a Satèn-style wine!
3. Franciacorta Rosé
• Aging: Minimum 24 months on lees.
• Grapes: At least 35% Pinot Nero, blended with Chardonnay and/or Pinot Bianco.
• Style: Richer, with red fruit flavors and added structure.
4. Franciacorta Millesimato (Vintage Franciacorta)
• Aging: Minimum 30 months on lees.
• Grapes: Only from a single vintage (85% must come from the declared year).
• Style: More complex, with greater aging potential.
5. Franciacorta Riserva
• Aging: Minimum 60 months (5 years) on lees.
• Grapes: Strict selection from top vineyard sites.
• Style: Highly complex, with deep notes of brioche, toasted nuts, and yeast.
Regulations and Franciacorta DOCG Status
Franciacorta was granted DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) status in 1995, the highest designation in Italian wine. This guarantees strict production rules, including:
• Metodo Classico is mandatory — no other production method is allowed.
• Lower maximum yields than Champagne, ensuring higher-quality fruit.
• Hand-harvesting is required to maintain grape integrity.
• Extended aging requirements for each category of Franciacorta.
• No tank fermentation (Charmat method) permitted — this differentiates Franciacorta from Prosecco.
While Franciacorta is enjoyed year-round, its peak consumption occurs during celebratory occasions and festive periods, particularly:
• New Year’s Eve & Christmas: A go-to for toasts and festive gatherings.
• Weddings & Special Events: Seen as a high-quality alternative to Champagne.
• Summer Aperitivo Culture: Satèn, with its creamy texture, pairs well with light antipasti and seafood.
• Milan’s High-End Dining Scene: Given Lombardy’s proximity, Franciacorta is a staple in Milan’s best restaurants.
Unlike Prosecco, which is widely consumed as a casual, everyday drink, Franciacorta is associated with refinement and is typically enjoyed in more sophisticated settings.
Five Best Franciacorta Wines to Try in 2025:
1. Franciacorta DOCG (Standard Brut):
• Bellavista Alma Gran Cuvée Brut
Comprising mostly Chardonnay with a touch of Pinot Nero and Pinot Bianco, this cuvée undergoes 30 months of lees aging. It presents vibrant acidity complemented by hints of ripe apple and subtle brioche undertones.
2. Franciacorta Satèn:
• 1701 Franciacorta Satèn
Produced from 100% Chardonnay, this organic and biodynamic wine is aged for a minimum of 24 months on the lees. It showcases a creamy texture with delicate bubbles, offering flavors of white peach and a hint of vanilla.
3. Franciacorta Rosé:
• Contadi Castaldi Franciacorta Rosé
Comprising 65% Chardonnay and 35% Pinot Nero, this rosé undergoes 24 months of lees aging. It delivers fresh aromas of pomegranate and red currant, with a lively and refreshing palate.
4. Franciacorta Millesimato (Vintage):
• Bellavista Teatro alla Scala Brut
A vintage blend primarily of Chardonnay and Pinot Nero, aged for at least 30 months on the lees. It offers a refined bouquet of ripe fruits, honey, and subtle floral notes, with a persistent and elegant finish.
5. Franciacorta Riserva:
• Uberti Franciacorta Extra Brut ‘Comarì del Salem’ Riserva
Sourced from a single vineyard, this 100% Chardonnay Riserva is aged for a minimum of 60 months on the lees. It presents a sophisticated palate with nuances of citrus zest, toasted bread, and a lingering, crisp finish.
Franciacorta Food Pairings:
1. Franciacorta DOCG — Crisp and Classic: A fresh vibrant style with bright acidity and fine mousse.
Oysters and Raw Shellfish: the briny salinity of oysters and delicate sweetness of shrimp or scallops complement the Franciacorta’s crisp acidity.
Sushi & Sashimi: the clean minerality of Franciacorta’s limestone soil enhances the umami in fresh fish without overpowering delicate flavors.
Soft Cheeses: try with burrata, ricotta, or fresh goat cheese. The bubbles cut through the richness, creating a balanced bite.
VEGANS! Try it with Hearts of Palm Ceviche: the bright acidity of the wine complements citrus marinated hearts of palm (and mushrooms!), mimicking the texture and brininess of seafood.
2. Franciacorta Satèn — Creamy & Elegant: with softer bubbles and a silkier mouthfeel, Satèn is a luxurious, Chardonnay-driven style perfect for creamy or delicate dishes.
Lobster, Crab, and Buttered Shellfish: the wine’s creamy texture mirrors the buttery richness of lobster, crab, or shrimp scampi.
Truffle Risotto: earthy truffles and rich, creamy risotto are beautifully complemented by the subtle toasted notes of Satèn.
Brie & Triple-Crème Cheeses: the smooth bubbles enhance the creamy, buttery texture of cheeses like Brie, Camembert, or Saint-André.
Roast Chicken with Lemon & Herbs: the citrusy, nutty nuances of Satèn bring out the flavors of roasted poultry with fresh herbs. (VEGANS! Do a roasted cauliflower version: the roasted umami of the cauliflower pairs well with the wine’s citrus and nuttiness)
3. Franciacorta Rosé — Fruity & Structured: with a higher proportion of Pinot Nero (Pinot Noir), Franciacorta Rosé delivers bright red fruit flavors and more structure, making it ideal for richer or slightly spiced dishes.
Grilled Salmon & Tuna Steaks: the wine’s berry flavors complement the meatiness of seared salmon or tuna.
Charcuterie & Aged Cheeses: works beautifully with aged Parmigiano-Reggiano, Manchego, or a mixed charcuterie board.
Spiced Dishes (Mild Curry, Moroccan Tagine): the fruitiness helps balance mild heat and warm spices.
VEGANS! Try with Charred Watermelon Steaks and Tajin: the wine’s fruitiness balances the warm spice and sweetness of the watermelon while retaining acidity.
4. Franciacorta Millesimato (Vintage) — Complex and Ageworthy: aged longer on the lees, Vintage Franciacorta develops deeper, more complex flavors, making it a great match for richer, umami-driven dishes.
Wild Mushroom Pasta & Truffle Dishes: Earthy, savory notes in aged Franciacorta compliment umami-rich mushrooms and truffles.
Aged Comté or Gruyère Cheese: a match made in heaven, as both develop nutty, caramelized complexity over time.
VEGANS! Pair with Seitan in a lemon-caper sauce: the briny capers and the texture of the seitan will match the wine’s bright acidity and citrus notes.
5. Franciacorta Riserva — Deep & Luxurious: with at least 5 years of lees aging, Riserva Franciacorta is the most structured, complex, and ageworthy, making it perfect for refined dishes.
Aged Wagyu Beef or Filet Mignon: the depth and umami of aged beef harmonize with Riserva’s toasty, brioche notes.
Slow-Braised Short Ribs: the long-aged complexity of the wine mirrors the deep, slow-cooked flavors of braised meats.
Black Truffle Pasta or Fondue: the richness of melted cheese and the earthiness of truffles work beautifully with an aged Franciacorta.
Dark Chocolate with Sea Salt: the wine’s nuttiness and long finish contrast the bitterness of high-quality dark chocolate.
VEGANS! Pair with grilled King Trumpet mushrooms with a miso glaze: the umami brings out the wine’s nutty and toasty character.
Franciacorta stands as Italy’s premier traditional method sparkling wine, offering a level of craftsmanship, terroir expression, and prestige that rivals Champagne. With its stringent regulations, meticulous production methods, and unique styles, it has carved out a distinguished reputation in both Italian and international markets. As more consumers seek out premium sparkling wines, Franciacorta continues to gain traction beyond Italy’s borders, proving that Italy can produce world-class méthode traditionnelle wines with their own distinct identity.
