Trento DOC, Franciacorta DOCG Flashcards
Sparkling wines
What is the main production objective of Trento DOC?
To produce high-quality, TRADITIONAL METHOD, sparkling wines.
Why are the wines of Trento DOC regarded as the finest and unique wines?
They are grown at high elevation in the Alpine region of Trentino-Alto Adige.
What nickname is given to Trento DOC wines?
“Bollicine di Montagna” - “Mountain Bubbles”.
Where is Trento DOC located?
In Trentino. NE of Italy. It borders the Northern end of Veneto and Lake Garda northern shores. It is named after Trento, the capital city of Trentino.
Where are the vineyards of Trento DOC found?
On the slopes of the Alps up to 800m ASL.
What does the climate and elevation give to the grapes and wines of Trento DOC?
Warm summer daytime air rises from the valleys and ensures the grapes ripen fully whilst the cool night air descends from the Alps and preserves the natural acidity of the grapes. (BALANCE).
What training method is used in Trento DOC vineyards?
The ‘Pergola” overhead method. Canopy is trained high above the ground along horizontal supports.
What is the unofficial name of Trento DOC adopted by the Consorzio and producers?
“TRENTODOC” - all one word which appears on the label.
Which grapes are used in making TrentoDoc wines?
Chardonnay, Pinot Nero, Pinot Bianco and Meunier.
Which method is used to make TrentoDOC?
The traditional method.
How long must wines of Trento be aged on lees for?
NV - at least 15 months on lees;
Vintage - 24 months on lees;
Riserva - 36 months on lees.
Note - most producers age for longer than required by rules.
What makes Trento DOC wine special?
High acidity, aromatic complexity derived from extended lees ageing. Leads to nervy wines with supple mouthfeel and notes of toast and biscuit.
What is the character of Trento DOC wines?
Body: medium;
Acidity - Pronounced;
ABV: medium
What are the common descriptors of Trento DOC wines?
Golden apple, white peach, citrus, biscuit, hazelnut.
What is the most common style of wine from Trento DOC?
White but there is some rose. Mainly Brut style.
Which DOCG is regarded as Italy’s answer to Champagne?
Franciacorta DOCG.
Where is Franciacorta DOCG located?
It is in Lombardia located at the south of Lake Iseo near Brescia.
What is the topography of Franciacorta DOCG?
The grapes are grown on a narrow band of gentle hills where the Alps meet the Padan Plains. It is a shallow bowl formed by a glacier.
What effect does Lake Iseo have on the vineyards of Franciacorta?
It moderates temperatures, mitigating summer highs and winter lows. Lakes also can protect against frost.
Which grapes are used to make Franciacorta wines?
Chardonnay, Pinot Nero, Pinot Bianco and Erbamat.
What are the ageing rules for Franciacorta wines?
NV - at least 18 months on lees;
Vintage - at least 30 months on lees;
Riserva - a minimum of 60 months on lees.
NOTE: They are more demanding than Champagne.
What styles of wine are produced in Franciacorta DOCG?
Both white and rose in Brut. Extra Brut and Brut Nature are also common.
What style is “Saten” from Franciacorta?
A “blanc de blancs” bottled with less pressure for a creamier silkier mousse.
What makes Franciacorta DOCG wines special?
Fully ripened grapes with lower acidity and full fruit flavours;
Extended lees ageing adds complexity;
What is the character of Franciacorta wines?
Body - Medium;
Acidity - medium to pronounced;
ABV - medium.
What are the common descriptors of Franciacorta DOCG wines?
Lemon, green apple, honeydew melon, yeasty, toasty.
