Franciacorta DOCG Pinònero Riserva 2017 Contadi Castaldi

What type of wine it is

Pinònero Riserva by Contadi Castaldi is a Franciacorta made exclusively from Pinot Noir grapes grown on hillsides. Classified as Franciacorta, it stands out for its vibrant and elegant profile combined with a well-defined structure. The winemaking process follows the Traditional Method, with an initial fermentation in steel and barriques, where the wine partially undergoes malolactic fermentation. The long lees aging and very low dosage shape a meticulous and fresh style that conveys the grape variety’s purest expression.

Where it comes from

This wine originates in Franciacorta, Lombardy, from carefully selected hillside plots by Contadi Castaldi. The parcels feature vines around thirty years old, a choice that enhances aroma concentration and fruit clarity. The hilly environment ensures consistent temperatures and excellent ventilation, both essential for maintaining the grapes' natural acidity. In this territory, the varietal develops a vertical character, ideal for a Riserva meant to evolve for a long time.

How it is produced

Harvest takes place from mid to late August to preserve the integrity and freshness of the bunches. After a gentle pressing, the must ferments for twenty days between steel tanks and barriques. Once the initial vinification is complete and after seven months of early aging, the wine undergoes secondary fermentation in bottle, following the Traditional Method. It then remains on the lees for at least sixty months. After disgorgement, a further nine months of aging completes the process.

Tasting notes

To the eye, it displays a bright golden hue crossed by a fine and persistent perlage. On the nose, it opens with a sophisticated aromatic profile that intertwines lime citrus notes, hints of eucalyptus, and subtle cherry nuances, enriched by the long bottle aging. The palate offers a vibrant entry with notes of lemon zest that lead into a solid crescendo, enhanced by delicate toasted tones. The finish, dry and dynamic, leaves pleasant and consistent currant sensations.

Food pairing

The pronounced acidity and aromatic finesse make this Franciacorta ideal for pairing with refined seafood dishes. It harmoniously complements delicate shellfish such as scampi and lobster, and enhances both steamed or lightly sautéed preparations. In Italian culinary tradition, it perfectly accompanies a seafood risotto, balancing its soft textures. It's also a spot-on match with gratinated scallops, as the wine’s gentle toasted notes pair beautifully.

When to serve

This Franciacorta is suitable for elegant table occasions, from a seafood lunch to dinners centered around shellfish. It can be enjoyed immediately for its liveliness and dry profile, but it also has the backbone to sustain a maturation period in bottle. Its long aging guarantees remarkable longevity and stability. If served at a controlled cool temperature, you will fully appreciate the defined citrus aromas and the precise structure of its bubbles.