13. Franciacorta Flashcards
In which region is Franciacorta located?
Lombardy.
The still white and red wines made in the same area are labelled as which DOC?
Curtefranca DOC
What is the name of the lake at the northern boundary of Franciacorta’s vineyards?
Lake Iseo.
What is the climate of Franciacorta?
Warm continental.
What are the two moderating effects of temperature in Franciacorta?
1) Lake Iseo
2) Cool air descends in summer from the alps that are in the north.
What is the vineyard topography of Franciacorta?
Vineyards are planted on gentle slopes.
What is the main weather hazard?
Spring frost.
In what two seasons does the majority of rain fall in Franciacorta?
Autumn and winter.
Rain can pose problems to which two stages of the vine’s growth cycle?
1) Flowering
2) Fruit set
What are the two main disease pressures?
1) Downy mildew
2) Botrytis
Is irrigation permitted?
Yes
How many soil types have been identified in Franciacorta?
Six.
What is the dominant grape variety planted in Franciacorta?
Chardonnay (75%)
Besides Chardonnay what two other varieties are planted?
1) Pinot Noir
2) Pinot Blanc
What are the two normal training systems?
1) Cordon with spur pruning
2) Head with replacement cane (Guyot)
What is the maximum permitted yield?
65 hL/ha
Whole bunch pressing is required by regulation for all wines except which style?
Pinot Noir for rose.
Fermentation is commonly in which vessel type?
Stainless steel.
For added complexity, Riserva and Millesimato wines may be fermented in what vessel type?
Old oak.
Non-vintage Franciacorta must spend a minimum term on lees of how many months?
18 months.
Non-vintage Franciacorta may have a maximum of what per cent of Pinot Blanco?
50%
Saten must spend a minimum term on lees of how many months?
24 months
Saten must have a maximum pressure of?
Five atmospheres.
Saten must be made in which style only? (Sweetness/dosage)
Brut.
Saten must be made only from black or white grapes?
White
Rose Franciacorta must be at least what per cent of Pinot Noir?
35%
How is colour introduced for rose Franciacorta? (3)
1) Direct pressing
2) Short maceration
3) Blending
Rose Franciacorta must spend a minimum term on lees of how many months?
24 months
Millesimato must spend a minimum term on lees of how many months?
30 months
Millesimato must be made from what per cent fruit from the declared vintage?
85%
What is a Riserva Franciacorta?
A Millesimato that has spent a minimum of 60 months on lees.
What is the name of the Franciacorta industry body?
Franciacorta Consorzio.
What is the trend of Franciacorta production?
Increasing (doubled between 2007-2016)
What per cent of Franciacorta is exported?
10%
What are the four principal export markets for Franciacorta?
1) Switzerland
2) Japan
3) Germany
4) USA
