Tasting this wine in 1999 was one of the inspirations to establish Sommelier's Choice. It quickly redefined the Prosecco category in the UK as it gained access as a pouring wine in fine dining restaurants. Remarkable quality and truly versatile.
Vineyards
Rustico is crafted entirely from Glera grapes, sourced from Nino Franco’s own vineyards as well as long-term partnerships with local growers. These vineyards are located on the rocky slopes of Valdobbiadene, where the steep hills and mineral-rich soils are shaped by both maritime influences and altitude. The result is grapes with vibrant acidity and a distinct freshness that defines this Prosecco. Organic principles are upheld across all vineyard sites, ensuring a pure expression of the region’s terroir.
Winemaking
The base wines for Rustico are vinified in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve the bright fruit flavours typical of Glera. Secondary fermentation takes place in autoclaves using the Charmat method, helping to maintain the wine’s fresh, lively character. A low dosage is applied to enhance the natural expression of the fruit and terroir. Rustico also benefits from extended lees contact, which adds depth and texture while preserving the hallmark elegance of this wine.
Appearance
Brilliant straw yellow, with fine, persistent bubbles.
Nose
The nose reveals classic aromas of William’s pear, white flowers, and a hint of citrus zest, underpinned by a touch of minerality that reflects the Valdobbiadene terroir.
Palate
On the palate, Rustico is soft and fresh, with a creamy texture that balances flavours of green apple, pear, and light citrus. The vibrant acidity and subtle minerality lead to a long, crisp finish, making this Prosecco both refreshing and elegant.
Food pairing
Rustico is the perfect apéritif but also pairs beautifully with cicchetti, oysters, sushi, and light salads. Its versatility allows it to complement a wide range of appetisers and lighter dishes, whether for a formal occasion or casual gathering.
Accolades
Nino Franco Rustico was awarded the prestigious title of Best Value Wine in the World by Wine Enthusiast in 2019. It consistently receives high praise from critics, with scores typically ranging from 90 to 95 points, reaffirming its exceptional quality and consistency.
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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