# Franciacorta Rosé DOCG Brut (NV)

- **Producer:** Contadi Castaldi
- **Colour:** rosé
- **Type:** sparkling
- **Grapes:** Chardonnay, Pinot Nero
- **Region:** Lombardia, Italy
- **Style:** Classic
- **Alcohol:** 12.5%
- **Average price:** €22
- **Contains sulphites:** Yes
- **When to drink:** Now or Later
- **Serving temperature:** 6–8 °C
- **Aromas & flavours:** raspberry, strawberry, cherry, apple, rose, bread, brioche, toast, butter, dried cranberry, almond

## About this wine

Contadi Castaldi is a modern, dynamic winery founded in the late 1980s by Vittorio Moretti in the heart of Franciacorta, Lombardy. Housed in a beautifully restored former brickyard in Adro, the estate is celebrated for its innovative approach to sparkling wine production. This Rosé represents a contemporary expression of the region, blending Pinot Nero and Chardonnay to capture the vibrant energy, mineral complexity, and rich history of the Franciacorta morainic hills.

## Interesting facts

- The winery is housed in a beautifully repurposed 19th-century brick factory, offering perfect natural temperature control for aging.
- Contadi Castaldi was founded by Vittorio Moretti, who also established the iconic Bellavista estate.
- The name 'Contadi' refers to ancient counties, while 'Castaldi' were the lords who managed these agricultural estates.

## Food pairing

The vibrant acidity and fine effervescence of this Franciacorta Rosé cut beautifully through rich, fatty textures like salmon or duck, while its delicate red fruit notes complement savory, umami-rich dishes. The structural weight from the Pinot Nero allows it to bridge the gap between light seafood and heavier meat-based appetizers.

## Wine making process

Crafted using the Metodo Classico (traditional method). The grapes undergo gentle pressing and a short cold maceration on the skins for the Pinot Nero to extract its delicate pink hue. Primary fermentation occurs in stainless steel tanks, with a small portion in barriques. The wine is then blended and undergoes secondary fermentation in the bottle, aging on its lees for a minimum of 24 months before disgorgement and a light dosage.