Contadi Castaldi Brut, Franciacorta DOCG, Italy

"Venetian Vines: The Lively Elegance of Contadi Castaldi Brut"

History and Pedigree: Contadi Castaldi Brut, a sparkling jewel in the crown of Franciacorta, embodies the rich tapestry of history and viticulture that defines this esteemed Italian wine region. The name Contadi Castaldi pays homage to the land's deep-rooted legacy, where the synthesis of 19 municipalities converges into a singular vocation for exceptional agriculture. Tracing back to the 1500s, amidst the Venetian Republic's grandeur, Franciacorta's bounty graced the tables of nobility and affluent merchants, with Venice serving as the pivotal marketplace for its revered wines. This sparkling wine is a tribute to centuries of cultivated excellence, where tradition and innovation blend seamlessly.

Production Highlights: The Contadi Castaldi Brut is crafted from a meticulous selection of grapes—80% Chardonnay, 10% Pinot Nero, and 10% Pinot Bianco—sourced from the diverse terroirs of Franciacorta. Embracing both Guyot and Casarsa cultivation systems within a plantation density of 3000 to 5000 vines per hectare, the vineyard yields are kept at 100 quintals per hectare to ensure the highest quality. The winemaking process is equally precise, from soft pressing and cold settling to fermentation and ageing that spans months in both steel and barrique, culminating in a minimum of 20 to 26 months ageing on the lees. This meticulous attention to detail ensures a wine of unparalleled complexity and finesse.

Product Details:

• Region: Franciacorta, Italy
• Varietal Composition: 80% Chardonnay, 10% Pinot Nero, 10% Pinot Bianco
• Color: Yellow with greenish reflections
• Ageing on the Lees: 20 to 26 months
• Disgorgement: From December
• Ageing after Disgorgement: 3 to 4 months
• Dosage: 6 g/l

Sensory Perception: In the glass, Contadi Castaldi Brut dazzles with its yellow hue and greenish sparkle, animated by a fine and persistent pérlage. The bouquet is a fresh fusion of lime floral notes, citrus undertones, white peach, and a hint of green pepper, crafting a sensory language that is both vibrant and accessible. On the palate, it presents a tight and crisp freshness, a full-bodied elegance, and a refined finish that resonates with enjoyable persistence.

Pairings and Occasions: The versatility and balanced style of Contadi Castaldi Brut make it a perfect companion for a wide array of dishes. Its crispness and full-bodied nature pair wonderfully with seafood, light pastas, and poultry, elevating each meal with its refined complexity. Ideal for celebrations or simply as an accompaniment to a sophisticated dinner, this Brut is a testament to the celebratory spirit and agricultural prowess of Franciacorta, ready to grace modern tables just as it did in the era of Venetian splendour.