Italian Bubbles and the Classic Method
Sparkling wines in Italy are produced in almost all regions, with the exception of Calabria which has no disciplinary, despite producing a series of bubbles for local and proper use. Among the most renowned areas we certainly find Franciacorta DOCG and the denomination of Trento DOC. Over time, Franciacorta has been able to promote and make itself known thanks to its great wines. Not only is it an area where festivals and meetings with international personalities are organised, but it is also one of the reference points for the production of quality Italian bubbles. Following the Lombard area we find the great sparkling wines of Trento doc which have been able to lead the way in the conquest of a precise and well-defined identity, which reflects the true essence of the territory. These two great names are flanked by centuries-old traditions relating to the production of sparkling wines located in the areas of Valle d'Aosta, the Marches, Campania, the Alta Langa and the Oltrepò Pavese area. Most companies dedicate space to international vines such as Pinot Noir and Chardonnay. Despite this there is a very large production of native Italian vines in sparkling quality.
What is the Classic Method..?
The Classic Method provides for the refermentation of a base wine in the bottle. The process is then followed by a more or less long period of aging on the lees of the same bottle. The refinement of the wine varies according to the disciplinary and the choices of the producer. In fact, it can vary from a few months up to three years or more. Before being placed on the market, the wine, between the various steps, is added, or not, of sugar. The quantity of sugar determines its classification in: Pas-dosè or Brut-nature, Extra brut, Brut, Dry, Demi sec, Doux, on a scale ranging from 0 to 50 g/l or more. Sometimes sparkling wines can be defined as "Cuvèe" that is, they are blended and subjected to refermentation of base wines from different vintages. They can often have a different maturation process (steel, wood, etc.) which gives life to a unique and recognizable style of the Cuvèe. In this way each producer can create his own Cuvèe and hand it down over time. If the label bears the definition "Millesimato" this will mean that the wines all come from the same vintage. The wines produced by the Classic Method are often complex, refined and intriguing. For a producer, following the evolution of his wine is like watching his own child grow and evolve. The passion that binds sparkling wine to the Italian territory is extraordinary and certainly proves it thanks to its bubbles that are more and more precise and elegant every year.
