Franciacorta

There are few things I love more than a Chardonnay-based Champagne, so it’s no surprise I adored this Contadi Castaldi Brut Franciacorta. Made with 80% Chardonnay, 10% Pinot Nero, and 10% Pinot Bianco, it’s 1000% worth its $27.99 price tag and scored 92/100 points from James Suckling. Even the dogs were into it!

First things first, what is Franciacorta?
It’s a traditional method sparkling wine from Brescia, Italy.

If I’m going to drink an Italian sparkling wine, I always choose Franciacorta, because it’s made like Champagne: the second fermentation that creates the bubbles, happens in the bottle, not a big vat. I love the complexity and elegance of traditional method (or Champagne method) sparkling wines.

This Franciacorta had fine- yet vibrant- fizz, with a creamy, toasty, nutty nose. I got hints of lemon cream, citrus, stone, some baked apple, and a little chalk. We had it with appetizers: lemon dill hummus, carrots & pumpernickel pretzels. We also enjoyed it during dinner: Hello Fresh curried chickpea bowls (recipe here). It would be great on its own, but I’d love it with shrimp, lobster, or scallops. It would also be gorgeous with any number of white cheeses on a charcuterie board—from salty and sharp to gooey and rich.

Contadi Castaldi Franciacorta is a great affordable option, if you’re looking to try a new kind of bubbly this Valentine’s Day. They also make a Chardonnay-based rosé. <3

Chin!