Sparkling wine enthusiasts may turn their noses up at the mention of Prosecco, the world’s leading sparkling wine in terms of volume sold (160 million bottles sold), but like many things in Italy, to every rule there is an exception. What is true is that the Prosecco region has grown at a disturbing pace…
Cellar Visit: La Montina in Franciacorta
Upon arriving at La Montina winery you find the 17th century Villa Baiana in front of you, once home to the estate’s founder, Benedetto Montini. Montini, a noble from Brescia and a descendant of Pope Paul VI, built the estate in 1620. There is a life-sized statue of Pope Paul VI in the cellar…
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Franciacorta: Champagne’s younger sister
Franciacorta, located to the west and south of Lago d’Iseo in Lombardia, is a sea of neatly arranged rows of green covering 6,000 hectares. It is a peaceful oasis in which grows Italy’s answer to Champagne. Great wine is often grown in areas of great beauty and Franciacorta is no exception. There are 80…
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Why is Champagne expensive?
I thought I loved Champagne before I was properly introduced to it. Now knowing the complexity of its production, I have a deeper respect and value it even more. I managed to secure an invitation to a Champagne blending master class hosted by the Ordre des Coteaux de Champagne and taught by Mr. Stanislas Thienot…
