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Berlucchi is an iconic house and pioneer in Italy: it was the first winery to release a metodo classico Franciacorta in the 60’s. It has, since then, become the most powerful premium sparkling wine brand in Italy. The Ziliani family also owns the Bolgheri estate of Caccia Al Piano. Certified Organic in 2016, Berlucchi’s own vineyards cover over 100 hectares. The three children of the late Franco Ziliani, lovingly referred to as “the father of Franciacorta,” now lead the estate.
The name Franciacorta comes from the terms Francae Curtes, name given during the feudal period to the communities of French Benedictine monks who settled in the region to cultivate the vine. These communities were exempted from the princely taxes in exchange for their services. Francae Curtes (franc de taxe in French) therefore means free of taxes. It then evolved through time to the Italian version Franciacorta.

Organic. Pinot nero (100%), grown in two high-density estate vineyards in Borgonato, the hillslope Quindicipiò vineyard and Brolo, with its view of Palazzo Lana Berlucchi. Fermentation in stainless steel, then the finest lots go to oak barrels, where they mature 6 months sur lie. The cuvée is assembled in the spring following the harvest with the highest-quality base wines, all 100% of the same growing year. The wine re-ferments and matures sur lie in the bottle for a minimum of 10 years, followed by a further 6 months after disgorging. RS 3g/l.

A bouquet of sweet smoke, crushed pear, chamomile and dusty dried flowers makes the 2011 Franciacorta Riserva Palazzo Lana extremely impossible to ignore. This balances soothing bubbles with salty minerals and ripe ginger-tinged apples to create a display of pure elegance on the palate. Despite its Extra Brut label, this finishes with a bone-dry sensation, leaving raw almond, hazelnut and citrus to linger on and on. The 2011 is complex, with fantastic depth and balance. It’s a total pleasure to taste.
93+ Vinous

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