Italian Sparkling Wines

Italy does not try to compete with Champagne but does boast a number of unique sparkling wines that are sure to please any wine enthusiast! From Veneto's Prosecco, which traditionally opens a meal, to sparklers like Murgo Brut that are made from indigenous southern varietals, Italy's diverse wine regions offer delightful options that display the character of the land and demonstrate the traditional styles of bubbly enjoyed by generations of Italians.

Col Vetoraz
Lying on a hill in the Veneto bearing this same name as the estate, Col Vetoraz practices careful vinification here in the soil of Valdobbiadene. The dedication and tradtion behind those in this estate are the essential ingredients helping Col Vetoraz to remain among the top producers of sparkling wine.

Col Vetoraz Prosecco: This effusively fruity, light-bodied offering gives off terrific floral notes and persistent effervescence, complemented by hints of pears, white wildflowers, and juicy peaches. On the palate green melons and citrus entice the senses. There is not much body in this crystal clean, pure, sparkling white. A clean, delicate finish. It is an ideal aperitif.

Murgo
The Murgo estate is situated in a privileged position southeast of Mount Etna and has been making wines traditional to this territory since 1850. In 1981 Baron Emanuele Scammacca del Murgo modernized the estate to optimize the quality of his wines, and his sons Michele, Pietro, and Matteo focus on that same goal in their daily work in the vineyards and cellar. The unique conditions created by the volcano make for wines with unusual finesse, aromatic complexity, and strong personality.

Murgo Brut: This Sicilian sparkler is made exclusively from the native Nerello Mascalese grape. Fine perlage rises through the pale yellow. A delicate melange of flowers, crisp apples, and yeast greets the nose. Fresh citrus and more yeast on the palate. Delightful as an aperitivo, with cheese, or after dinner.

Cavalleri
A major grower-producer in Italy's prime sparkling wine district of Franciacorta, this estate is located in the beautiful countryside near Lake Iseo. Their first cellar belonged to Paolo Cavalleri, mayor of the town of Erbusco, and was housed in the basement of the town hall where he lived. Today, the Cavalleri family get their grapes exclusively from their own vineyards and keep to a limited production that they believe preserves the artisanal quality of their wines. This range of sparklers has few equals.

Cavalleri Brut NV: Saten is a style of sparkling wine with a little less fizz. The result is a wine that is creamier and softer. The Pinot Noir that accompanies the blend’s Chardonnay adds a level of depth and complexity. Alluring tones of sweet apple and vanilla fill the palate. A solid aperitif that works equally well with light foods.

Cavalleri Rosé Collezione Millesimato: A sassy, salmon pink in the glass with rich red berries and buttered toast on the nose and palate. Crisp acidity, attributable to the Pinot Nero, makes this the perfect antipasti or dinner sparkler.

Tenuta Castellino
The Bonomi family creates some of Franciacorta's greatest wines at Tenuta Castellino. They focus exclusively on barrel fermented wines, and their outstanding results have drawn the attention of enologists who now travel to the estate to admire their vineyards. The estate is currently under the guidance of enologist Leonardo Valentini.

Castellino Franciacorta Satèn: Fresh citrus zest on the nose and palate with charred undertones. A bright wine, yet also lush.

Malvirà
A Piemontese specialty, Brachetto is both a wine and a grape. Usually produced as a sparkler, the grape also shows well in still and passito forms. Cheerful, refreshing and brimming with character, this delicate dessert wine is thoroughly compelling.

Malvirà NV Birbet: Vibrant ruby flecked with violet. The nose pops with a fragrant bouquet of roses and handfuls of bing cherries. The palate sports a delightful prickle and the essence of tiny field strawberries. The pleasant sweetness is boosted by mouthwatering acidity and a faint hint of tannin.