Marchese Antinori Franciacorta Cuvee Royale
Marchese Antinori Franciacorta Cuvee Royale is a dry, medium-bodied sparkling from Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Blanc (Franciacorta, Italy), in the sparkling style. Acidity is fresh; oak influence is none. Good with roast chicken, salmon, creamy pasta, duck. Drink now or within 10 years (to about 2036). No need to decant. Critic score 93/100 (merchant-reported). Cheapest offer £34.98 at 8wines UK.
| Wine | Sweet | Body | From | |
|---|---|---|---|---|
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| Antica Fratta Franciacorta Essence Saten 2020 Antica Fratta · Lombardy | £27.19 | |||
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Drink it now or cellar for up to 10 years. No need to decant. The Marchese Antinori winery is one of the most renowned in Italy and abroad, with a long history and winemaking tradition spanning approximately 600 years. In addition to its various estates in Tuscany and Umbria, Marchesi Antinori began producing sparkling wines in the Franciacorta region in 1999. Marchese Antinori's Cuvée Royale is produced with select Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Blanc grapes from the Montenisa Estate, located around the hamlet of Calino, in the heart of Franciacorta. Here, the vineyards surrounding the Maggi family villa benefit from the microclimate created by nearby Lake Iseo. The first fermentation takes place in stainless steel. The second fermentation takes place in the bottle according to the Classic Method, and the wine remains on the lees for three years. The result is a harmonious, expressive, and extremely elegant wine. In the glass, it displays a light straw color enhanced by a fine and persistent perlage. Its aromatic profile is delicate and fragrant with fresh fruity and floral notes followed by hints of bread crust and yeast, thanks to the long lees aging. On the palate, it is silky and lively with a well-integrated acidity and a long, delicate, and refreshing finish. It's an excellent aperitif on its own or with seafood or vegetarian appetizers.