Barone Pizzini Animante Franciacorta Extra Brut DOCG, Lombardy, Italy

Chardonnay 78%, Pinot Noir 18%, Pinot Blanc 4%. Vinification: Gentle pressing, fermentation in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks. Ageing: 6 months in stainless steel tanks. Vineyards: 25 vineyards in the municipalities of Provaglio d’Iseo, Passirano, Corte Franca, Adro. Soil type: Morainic enriched with glacial deposits. Straw yellow in color, with notes of flowers, citrus, acacia honey, apricot and dried fruit. Ending with savory creaminess. Barone Pizzini was founded in 1870 by the noble family of the same name. It is one of the oldest wineries in Franciacorta, and was the first winery in the region to promote biodiversity and natural farming methods. Animate is sourced from the estate’s 25 vineyards scattered in different locations across Franciacorta. They cover a total surface area of 47 hectares. The average elevation of the vines is 200/300 meters above sea level, with an average age of 20 years. Subsoils are complex in origin. Some are morainic in nature, while others are enriched by glacial river deposits. Franciacorta’s layered geological formations boast complex microclimates. Wines are defined by both a sub-Alpine and Mediterranean-type climate due to the proximity of Lake Iseo. Summers are tolerably hot and dry, while winters remain milder, contributing to freshness and complex aromas. Morainic soils are conducive to stone fruit flavors, spice and florality.