Franciacorta is the jewel in the crown of Italian sparkling wine, and Ronco Calino is one of the finest boutique producers in this esteemed region. "Ronco Calino" means "The place where one's heart rests," and once you visit, you understand why. In 1996, Paolo Radici purchased the magnificent former villa of the acclaimed pianist Arturo Benedetti Michelangeli. Inspired by the stunning vistas and the potential of the surrounding land for the newly created Franciacorta DOCG, Paolo set about establishing 10 hectares of organic Pinot Nero and Chardonnay vines, sourced from Burgundy clones, and building a state-of-the-art underground cellar.
Ronco Calino takes exceptional care in both the vineyards and winemaking. The vineyards, facing north-northwest, benefit from breezes from the Adamello Park and grow in pebble-rich morainic soils. Handpicked clusters are chilled, gently pressed, and fermented in stainless steel tanks and French oak barrels.
Ronco Calino Brut DOCG Franciacorta NV
Vineyards
The vines for this cuvée are a mix of Burgundy clones, cultivated across various vineyard plots in Calino, including Sottobosco, Palazzo, Pianura, Cima Caprioli, and Anfiteatro. These sites, with east to south-west exposures, benefit from morainic, pebble-rich soils. The vines are trained using guyot and spurred cordon, at a density of 6,000 vines per hectare.
Winemaking
80% Chardonnay, 20% Pinot Noir. The grapes are hand-harvested and gently pressed. Chardonnay undergoes fermentation in thermo-controlled stainless steel tanks, with 20% fermenting in aged French oak barrels to add complexity. The Pinot Noir is also vinified with care in thermo-controlled stainless steel tanks , contributing structure and depth. The blend then undergoes secondary fermentation in the bottle following the Franciacorta method, with an extended lees aging of 30 months, resulting in a refined texture and persistent mousse.
Appearance
Light straw yellow with greenish highlights and a fine, persistent perlage.
Nose
Aromas of unripe pineapple, apple, pear, and Durone cherry, accented by floral notes of acacia blossom and wild rose jam. Hints of balsamic, crusty bread, and vanilla add complexity.
Palate
Balanced with a bright acidity. Flavours of nutty unripe fruit, white flowers, and candied citrus peel emerge, followed by subtle vegetal and vanilla undertones. The wine finishes long and complex, with lingering notes of honey and spices. 13% ABV.
Food Pairing
Ideal for an apéritif, or paired with pasta, fish dishes with delicate sauces, and light fried fish.
Serving Suggestions
Serve at 6-8°C to appreciate its fine perlage and evolving flavours.
Scores
- Falstaff 93 points
- Wine Advocate 91 points
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