Grave di Stecca Spumante Brut 2010

Grave di Stecca is Nino Franco’s renowned single-vineyard Prosecco, sourced from the only walled vineyard in the entire Prosecco region, echoing the prestigious "Clos" system found in Burgundy and Champagne. This vineyard, with its limestone-rich soil, produces an atypical yet highly expressive wine. Made entirely from Glera grapes, Grave di Stecca demonstrates Nino Franco’s commitment to showcasing terroir-driven wines with complexity and depth that defy traditional expectations of Prosecco.

Vineyards

The Grave di Stecca vineyard is an extraordinary site in Valdobbiadene, distinguished by its limestone-rich soils and unique walled structure, akin to the “Clos” vineyards of Burgundy and Champagne. The vineyard’s enclosure creates a distinct microclimate, enhancing the precision and intensity of the wine’s flavours. Vines here are trained in a cordon style and farmed sustainably. The early harvest ensures lively acidity, while the vineyard’s location and composition contribute to the wine's rich minerality and complexity.

Winemaking

Grave di Stecca undergoes traditional vinification in stainless steel tanks, followed by secondary fermentation in a pressurised tank (cuve close) using the Charmat method. With only 7 grams per litre of sugar, the wine retains its freshness while showcasing the terroir’s natural expression. Extended lees contact adds depth and texture, while the early-picked grapes contribute to the wine's vibrant acidity and clean finish. Despite its unconventional style, the family has opted not to submit this wine for DOCG designation to preserve its distinct character.

Appearance

Pale straw yellow, with fine, persistent bubbles.

Nose

The nose reveals a captivating mix of crisp orchard fruits, delicate floral notes, and a distinctive mineral core. Subtle spices enhance the aromatic profile, with pear and white peach adding layers of complexity.

Palate

On the palate, Grave di Stecca is both elegant and complex, with orchard fruits, a touch of spice, and a strong mineral backbone. The wine’s texture is rich yet balanced by juicy acidity, leading to a long, mineral-driven finish. Its structure allows for aging, enhancing its depth and nuance over time.

Food pairing

Grave di Stecca pairs beautifully with a wide variety of dishes, from seafood and shellfish to roasted poultry and grilled vegetables. Its minerality and freshness make it a versatile choice for sophisticated pairings.

Accolades

93 points from Michael Franz in 2013, 91 points Falstaff.

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.