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Set among the rolling hills of Brescia, the wine region of Franciacorta might be Italy's best-kept secret. Grapes have been cultivated here for centuries, producing a highly-prized sparkling wine largely undiscovered by wine enthusiasts, especially in the US.
Winemaking in Franciacorta
Franciacorta is the name of the wine itself and the area in Northern Italy where it's produced.
Winemakers handcraft the wine in the metodo classico, or classical method, in which wine is refermented directly in the bottle. In 1995, Franciacorta's sparkling wines attained DOCG status, the highest designation of quality in Italy.
Vineyards dot the hilly landscape between picturesque Lake Iseo and the city of Brescia as they have since ancient times. Still wine was produced for local consumption long before the sixteenth century when sparkling wine production began.
Winemakers produce Franciacorta several varietals, primarily using Chardonnay, Pinot Nero, and Pinot Bianco grapes. They employ the same traditional winemaking method that their French counterparts use to make champagne.
In this process, the second fermentation, which creates carbonation, occurs in the bottle. Winemakers place wine, yeast, and sugar into bottles, and each bottle ferments independently. The wine is aged in a horizontal position on the lees for 18 to 60 months. Then the bottles are turned upright and hand-rotated every day until ready.
By contrast, the second fermentation for Franciacorta's cousin Prosecco takes place in stainless steel tanks. Faster and less costly, this method allows for larger-scale production, but wines lack the complexity found in Franciacorta varietals.
Discovering the Franciacorta Wine Route
Though wine has been produced in the region for centuries, wine tourism is newer to the area. The Franciacorta Wine Route was created to help visitors discover and enjoy the 19 townships, 121 wine cellars, and countless other attractions in the region.
Winery visits
Though they range in size from small to large, the wineries of Franciacorta are family-run and open year-round. A visit usually includes a walk through the vineyards with an agronomist to experience the grapes up close, along with the beautiful natural setting. A tasting follows, often with the winemaker who will offer a slice of salami, chat with guests, and answer their questions.
Visitors can also arrange experiences that allow them to encounter wine in fun, unique ways. Through Sensory Tastings, Blind Tastings, and Tasting Courses, guests can discover the differences between a Satèn and a Franciacorta Rosé, a chardonnay and a pinot noir.
Active Holidays
Picturesque, romantic Lake Iseo sits just to the north of the Franciacorta region. Ringed with charming villages and natural areas, there's lots to see and do on and around Lake Iseo.
Riva Boat Tour
The legendary Riva motorboat, glamourously showcased in James Bond films, originated in a Lake Iseo shipyard in 1842. Discover the beautiful vistas around deep, green Lake Iseo. Or linger over a glass of Franciacorta and a fantastic meal as the sun sets on an evening cruise.
Water Sports
Windsurfing, kite surfing, canoeing, and sailing are just a few of the water sports available in this beautiful lake region.
Cycle Franciacorta
The Franciacorta Wine Route Consortium has developed five cycling routes through the region, some suitable for all riders and some more challenging. A sixth route for families will be introduced soon. Most routes take about two hours to complete. Guided bike tours are also available.
Golf
Tucked between the woods and vineyards, the Franciacorta Golf Club has three courses, each dedicated to a type of Franciacorta wine: the Brut Route, the Satèn Path, and the Rosè Route.
Explore the Vineyards
By horseback, vespa, quad, or on a simple hike, there are many ways to enjoy the vineyards and beautiful natural areas of the region.
Gastronomy
Franciacorta is a fantastic culinary region, with spectacular food to be found in trattorias, farmhouses, inns, and Michelin-star restaurants throughout the area.
Local Food Producers
Visit or tour a local producer and learn about some of the regional specialties, including Montezala, a local salami, sardines, and cow and goat cheese.
Grappa Tasting
Almost every winery produces its own grappa to sample, or visitors can visit the Distillerie Franciacorta, established in 1901.
Cooking classes
These are held in chef's restaurants, farmhouses, or wine cellars. Cook along with the chef or sip a glass of wine while you watch a cooking demonstration. Classes typically include a final tasting of the prepared dish paired with a Franciacorta.
Historic Sites
Palaces, villas, and historic homes - tour or stay in one of these beautiful, historic residences. Centuries-old and beautifully preserved, some of these homes are still family-owned.
Monastero San Pietro in Lamosa - this thousand-year old monastery is a peaceful respite adjacent to the Torbiere peat bog nature reserve.
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