BARONE PIZZINI, FRANCIACORTA ROSÉ EXTRA BRUT
LOMBARDY, ITALY 2018
Why Buy: If you’re looking for complex and age-worthy sparkling wine that rivals vintage Champagne – but at a fraction of the price – look no further than the rosés from Lombardy’s Franciacorta, which the great British wine critic, Tom Stevenson, has declared "world class." More specifically, zero in on Barone Pizzini, the standard-bearer of the region, which produces extraordinary bottlings, like this one, that deliver far more than crisp, light refreshment. Their 93-point 2018 rosé is a terroir-focused wine of great finesse and depth of character.
What They're Saying: "The moment the cork pops the wine is alive with cranberry, strawberry and wild berry tart aromas, all equally energetic and present," wrote The Wine Enthusiast. "The palate is playful and serious at the same time, with vibrant tart red fruits framed by amazing structure and taut lines ... The wine finishes with a bright pop of acidity and a continuous stream of tight bubbles."
The Story: Most Italians don't drink Prosecco – when they want a sparkling wine, they tend to reach for Franciacorta. For that reason, sadly, most of these wines stay behind in Italy. In saying "most," by the way, we are not saying "a lot." Production is low, by design. And the best producers are keenly conscientious about preserving tradition and hewing to the time-honored methods of old. The 153-year-old Barone Pizzini remains a staunchly minimal-intervention operation, and made history when it became the first organic-certified producer in the region.
Specs: The wine was produced with 100% Pinot Noir grapes, and aged for 30 months on the lees.
Our Tasting Notes: The burst of berries out of the gate will seize your attention, but what seduces are the notes of toasted almonds, dried herbs, and salt, the delicate mousse, the polished tannins, and the dry but lively finish.
ABV: 12%
Fun Fact: The Barons Pizzini von Thurberg were a noble family, and counted themselves friends of Mozart.
What to Pair It With: Lobster, in all its many preparations, is the obvious match, but you'll find gorgeous harmony, as well, with shrimp salad, quiche, crepes with a mushroom cream sauce. Goes great, too, with an herbed roast chicken.
Our Guarantee: We always buy and source direct, so rest assured: your whiskey will arrive in your hands with pristine provenance. Secure your order today!
*Offer NOT valid in-store. This offer is made pre-arrival, with wines estimated to be delivered to your preferred store in Winter 2023 (Dec. 21st - Mar. 20th, 2024). All sale prices are the lowest available at Total Wine & More and ONLY valid through Concierge Sales. No further discounts or coupons may be applied. Offer not valid in MI, NY or TN. This offer is for ONE WEEK, or until sold out, and will expire on Sunday, August 27th, 2023.
