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 Satèn Brut DOCG Franciacorta NV
Grapes: 100% Chardonnay
ABV: 13%
Vineyards:
This elegant Franciacorta is crafted from Chardonnay sourced from Sottobosco and Palazzo vineyards in Calino, Cazzago San Martino, nestled on east and north-east facing hills. The pebble-rich morainic soils and cool breezes from the Adamello Park create an ideal microclimate for cultivating vines. These vineyards are cultivated using guyot and spurred cordon methods, with a density of 6,000-8,000 vines per hectare, promoting concentration and character in the fruit.
Winemaking:
After a careful hand-harvest in August, the grapes are delicately soft-pressed. 30% of the must ferments in French oak barrels, while the rest undergoes fermentation in thermo-regulated stainless steel tanks. Following the Franciacorta method, the cuvée undergoes secondary fermentation in the bottle, with an extended lees aging period of 36 months. The result is a refined perlage and complex, creamy texture.
Appearance:
Pale straw yellow with greenish highlights, featuring a persistent and fine perlage, forming a compact froth.
Nose:
An expressive bouquet opens with notes of unripe tropical fruit such as pineapple, Williams pear, and vineyard peach, accompanied by subtle herbal and balsamic accents like basil and chamomile. Aromas of white flowers (magnolia, citrus, and acacia) lead into delicate hints of pan brioche and Genoese cake, with a lingering touch of sweet almond, acacia honey, and spices like coriander and pink pepper.
Palate:
Luxuriously creamy and refined, the palate showcases layers of fresh fruit, balanced by vibrant acidity and a supple mineral backbone. Subtle notes of honey, candied citrus peel, and spices evolve across the palate, underscored by its long, rich finish. The fine mousse contributes to the wine's silky texture, with an aftertaste of almond, citrus, and a delicate hint of toast.
Food Pairing:
Perfectly suited for fish starters, seafood platters, and sushi. It also pairs wonderfully with light Mediterranean cuisine, including grilled vegetables and delicate fish dishes.
Serving Suggestions:
Serve at 6-8°C to enjoy the full expression of its creamy mousse and nuanced flavours.
Scores:
- Wine Advocate: 92 points
- Wine Enthusiast: 90 points
- Falstaff: 90 points
More from Ronco Calino
