The Curtefranca DOC is the appellation for the still wines of Franciacorta, in the province of Brescia, in Lombardy. It was born in 1995 as Terre di Franciacorta and took its current name in 2008. The production area is the same as that of the Franciacorta DOCG; the change of name serves to distinguish it from the latter, which denotes a specific territory, method and wine. It has about 80 hectares, with an output of 5,870 hectolitres.
The Bianco
The Bianco is made from at least 50% Chardonnay and up to 50% Pinot Bianco and/or Pinot Nero, the latter vinified as a white. It is released from 1 February after the harvest, after about four months of ageing. With a vineyard designation, ageing rises to about eleven months, with release from 1 September.
The Rosso
The Rosso is a blend of Bordeaux grapes: at least 25% Merlot, at least 20% Cabernet Franc and/or Carmenère, 10 to 35% Cabernet Sauvignon and other red grapes up to 15%. It ages about eight months and is released from 1 July after the harvest; with a vineyard designation, ageing reaches about 22 months, with release from 1 September of the second year.
Still wines beside the bubbles
In Franciacorta, Chardonnay and Pinot Nero are also the grapes of the traditional-method sparkling wine: Curtefranca Bianco offers their still version. The appellation's minimum alcohol is 11%.
The Bianco goes with risottos, lake fish and fresh cheeses; the Rosso with manzo all'olio, cured meats and grilled meat; the vineyard-designated versions with roasts and aged cheeses. The province of Brescia is also home to Botticino, Cellatica and Capriano del Colle.
