Prosecco Cartizze represents the pinnacle of Prosecco production, sourced from the highly sought-after Cartizze area of Valdobbiadene. This is a sparkling wine that expresses the unique qualities of this prized microzone, combining exceptional elegance with complexity. Made entirely from Glera grapes, Prosecco Cartizze is known for its balance between bright fruit, minerality, and a touch of sweetness, making it one of the most refined expressions of Prosecco.
Vineyards
The Cartizze vineyard is located in a small, precious area of Valdobbiadene, where steep slopes and mineral-rich soils provide the perfect conditions for growing Glera grapes of exceptional quality. The vineyard is farmed sustainably, and the cool maritime breezes and limestone-rich soils ensure that the grapes develop vibrant acidity and intense flavours. Cartizze is known for producing Prosecco with a higher level of complexity and finesse, showcasing the very best of Valdobbiadene’s terroir.
Winemaking
Cartizze is crafted using the Charmat method, with fermentation taking place in stainless steel tanks to preserve the wine’s delicate fruit and floral notes. The secondary fermentation is conducted in pressurised tanks, ensuring a fine, persistent mousse. With a gentle residual sugar of around 23 grams per litre, Prosecco Cartizze offers a harmonious balance between sweetness and acidity, giving it a rich, luxurious mouthfeel while retaining freshness.
Appearance
Pale straw yellow with brilliant reflections and fine, persistent bubbles.
Nose
The nose is refined and expressive, with aromas of white flowers, ripe apples, and hints of pear, balanced by subtle notes of almond and citrus zest.
Palate
On the palate, Cartizze is elegantly structured with a creamy texture and delicate sweetness. Flavours of green apple, peach, and a touch of honey are complemented by a refreshing acidity and a long, clean finish. The wine’s minerality adds complexity and depth, making it a luxurious and harmonious expression of the Cartizze terroir.
Food pairing
Traditionally, Cartizze is paired with desserts like Panettone, Colomba, cakes, and fruit tarts, as well as strawberry and vanilla ice cream. It also makes for a wonderful apéritif when paired with cheese like Gorgonzola. For savoury pairings, sushi and shellfish complement its freshness and complexity beautifully, making it an exceptionally versatile choice for a range of dining occasions.
Accolades
None yet, but usually 90-95 points.
Background story
Founded in 1919 by Antonio Franco, Nino Franco is one of the most prestigious Prosecco producers from Valdobbiadene, Veneto. Over the past century, the Franco family has been dedicated to refining Prosecco’s reputation, evolving it from a simple apéritif to a wine celebrated in Michelin-starred restaurants around the world. When Primo Franco took over in the early 1980s, he shifted the winery's focus toward producing quality-driven Proseccos, embracing single-vineyard cuvées and more sustainable practices. His work redefined what Prosecco could achieve, turning it into a wine that rivals the finest sparkling wines.
Nino Franco’s wines reflect the unique terroir of Valdobbiadene, with its steep hillsides and mineral-rich soils contributing to their freshness and complexity. Consistently praised by critics such as Robert Parker, Antonio Galloni, and Tom Stevenson, Nino Franco has also won more Gold Medals at the Champagne and Sparkling Wine World Championships than any other Prosecco producer. Their philosophy is simple: “great Prosecco starts with great wine.” By combining time-honoured traditions with modern innovation, Nino Franco consistently delivers wines that showcase the depth and diversity of the region, standing out on the global stage.
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