Fratelli Berlucchi Franciacorta ‘Brut 25’ NV, Lombardy, Italy

Franciacorta along with Trento and Alta Langa is the source for Italy’s best bottle fermented sparkling wines. Franciacorta’s vineyards are located just west of Lake Garda, and north of the city of Brescia.

The Berlucchi family are the largest land owners in the zone, with 70 hectares, and only use their own fruit; no grapes are bought in from other growers.

‘Brut 25’ is 100% Chardonnay and rests on its lees for 25 months before disgorging.

An ideal alternative to Champagne; small evenly rising bubbles lead to a nose of toast and almonds and a clean citrus and brioche palate.