Franciacorta Guido Berlucchi

 

Guido Berlucchi: The Pioneers of Franciacorta Sparkling Wine

Founded in 1961, Guido Berlucchi is widely recognized as the birthplace of Franciacorta, Italy’s premier traditional-method sparkling wine. The estate, located in Cortefranca in the heart of the Franciacorta DOCG zone in Lombardy, was established by the visionary collaboration between Guido Berlucchi and oenologist Franco Ziliani. This pioneering partnership transformed the Italian sparkling wine industry, and today, Berlucchi is among the most celebrated names in the Franciacorta world, producing over 4.5 million bottles annually.

Terroir and Vineyards

Berlucchi’s vineyards are spread across 515 hectares in the Franciacorta region, an area with a unique geological history. The vineyards are planted on morainic soils, which were formed by ancient glaciers. These soils, rich in minerals and calcareous deposits, are known for their excellent drainage, making them ideal for growing the Chardonnay, Pinot Nero (Pinot Noir), and Pinot Bianco (Pinot Blanc) that form the backbone of Franciacorta wines. The climate is moderated by nearby Lake Iseo, which creates a temperate microclimate, essential for maintaining the acidity and freshness needed for high-quality sparkling wine production​.

The estate’s key vineyards, including Arzelle, Rovere, San Carlo, and Ragnoli, are managed with extreme care. These sites are densely planted, with 10,000 vines per hectare, which encourages lower yields and enhances the concentration of flavors in the grapes. Berlucchi’s emphasis on vineyard management is clear in the quality of their wines, which express the minerality and terroir of the region​.

Sustainable and Organic Winemaking

Berlucchi has taken significant steps toward sustainability, implementing organic farming practices across all its vineyards. They minimize the use of chemicals, opting for organic composting and green manure to maintain soil health. Furthermore, Berlucchi uses renewable energy in its production processes and emphasizes water conservation and biodiversity. In 2017, the estate was awarded Equalitas certification for its efforts in sustainable viticulture and production.

The commitment to sustainability is reflected in their wines, particularly in the Franciacorta ’61 Nature range. These zero-dosage wines are crafted with minimal intervention, allowing the natural characteristics of the grapes and the terroir to shine through. Aged for up to five years on the lees, these wines have a fine perlage, a creamy texture, and a refreshing, mineral-driven finish.

Signature Franciacorta Wines

  • Franciacorta ’61 Brut: This wine honors the year of Berlucchi’s first Franciacorta production. A blend of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, it is aged for 24 months on the lees, offering vibrant fruit flavors, notes of fresh bread, and a crisp, balanced finish.
  • Franciacorta ’61 Rosé: A lively rosé made predominantly from Pinot Noir, with a touch of Chardonnay, this wine has aromas of red berries, rose petals, and a hint of citrus. It is aged for at least 24 months, developing complexity and elegance
  • Palazzo Lana Riserva Extrema: This prestige cuvée is a showcase of Berlucchi’s finest vineyards and winemaking skill. Made entirely from old-vine Pinot Noir, it is aged for at least 7 years, developing rich, complex layers of red fruit, spices, and toasty notes, with a long, refined finish

    Awards and Recognition

    Berlucchi’s commitment to quality has earned it numerous accolades over the years, including the prestigious Gambero Rosso Winery of the Year 2022 award. Their Franciacorta Nature 61 and Palazzo Lana Riserva are particularly lauded, recognized for their exceptional finesse, structure, and aging potential​.