Tasting

What does Franciacorta taste like? A non-vintage Brut smells of lemon, green apple and fresh pastry, often with a hint of almond. On the palate it stays lean, with a fine mousse and an acidity that keeps the mouth feeling fresh. It's the perfect entry point, as it shows exactly what sets Franciacorta apart from Prosecco.

Satèn is the soft one. It tastes of ripe pear, white blossoms and bread crust, and its gentler fizz makes it feel almost velvety on the palate. Bellavista produces it from Chardonnay, and cellar master Mattia Vezzola, who joined the house in 1981, is considered one of its pioneers.

Rosé smells of raspberry and cherry, yet isn't sweet. Its Pinot Nero share of at least 35 percent gives it a hint of tannin and fullness rarely found in white wines. It's the most powerful of the three styles and suits anyone who also enjoys red wine.

Examples of denser, longer-aged cuvées include the Cuvée Annamaria Clementi from Ca' del Bosco, named after the founder's mother, and the Alma Gran Cuvée from Bellavista. Both show just how much depth Lombard sparkling wine can achieve after long lees aging.

Franciacorta is served at about 8 to 10°C in a tulip glass, which captures the aromas and guides the bubbles beautifully. A shallow coupe lets both escape. When opening, hold the cork firmly, turn the bottle rather than the cork, and let the gas hiss out gently.