Region

Conegliano Valdobbiadene DOCG is located in the foothills of the Alps in the north-eastern Veneto region. It is most famous for representing the highest-quality expression of Prosecco available. Prime vineyard sites in this area are so steep that they can only be hand pruned and harvested. The rich diversity in geology and microclimates contribute to the complexity and depth of these wines.

Variety

This wine is 100% Glera and is the primary grape of the region. Non-vintage Prosecco such as this is made by skillfully mixing Glera grapes from the various micro-zones of the area, creating “cuvées” that act as ambassadors for each winery’s distinctive winemaking philosophy, much like in Champagne.  Except here, the wine undergoes its secondary fermentation in a closed tank which produces a wine that is refreshing, delicate and complex, and meant to be consumed when young and fresh. 

Producer

Nino Franco winery was founded in Valdobbiadene in 1919 by Antonio Franco, who set out right from the start to make a quality product. With his son Nino, who carried on the tradition, the winery continued to grow and evolve. Nino’s son, Primo, took over and modernized the winery in 1982 after earning his diploma at the Conegliano Veneto school of enology, Primo focused his work on a precise quality model he had got to know during his study. He became a pioneer of Prosecco, successfully introducing a different sparkling wine than Champagne to International markets and became one of the first to export prosecco outside of Italy. He was also one of the first producers to bottle a single vineyard designated wines. Currently, the winery is still family-owned, and Primo’s daughter Sylvia, is responsible for the next phase of Nino Franco.

Serving

6° – 8° degrees, cold enough to remain refreshing and keep the bubbles fine, but not so cold that the aromas and fruitiness are muted. Serve in a white wine glass or even better, a fairly large tulip glass  which helps preserve the fine bubbles longer and the opening at the tops of the glass helps to collect and showcase the wine’s floral aromas (a flute will not express the delicate aromas to their potential). 

The Nose

White flowers, pear, citrus   

Tasting Notes

Notes of pear, candied citrus and a lovely minerality. There is a slight fruity sweetness, balanced out by a mouthwatering acidity. The bubbles are fine, refreshing and continuous.

Food Pairings

Restaurant: Albacore tuna crudo, meyer lemon, baby dill, watercress.

Home: Light hors d’oeuvre, delicate dishes, charcuterie, vegetables, delicate pasta dishes + mushroom risotto

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Why We Like It

These bubbles never disappoint. The perfect start to any meal and a great value alternative to Champagne.