Bellavista - Franciacorta Brut "Alma Grande Cuvée"

Deep in the heart of Franciacorta lies Bellavista, a testimony to Vittorio Moretti's deep love for the land and what it offers. Driven by memories of carefree childhood summers spent in the countryside of his maternal grandparents, Vittorio's adventure in winemaking began modestly – a few hectares, a family home and an attached cellar. But it wasn't just about producing wine; it was about creating exceptional wine, a dream further fueled by his travels to France, where he drew inspiration from renowned masters and wine-oriented communities.

Making wine at Bellavista is both an art and a science. The old saying, “the grape is made in the vineyard, but the wine is made in the cellar,” is especially true here. From the gentle pressing of the grapes to the careful and labor-intensive vinification processes, every step is a dance between tradition and modernity. Each grape variety, each essence of the vineyard, is carefully preserved, with the must undergoing careful fermentation either in oak or steel - choices driven by the attentive listening and intuition of the winemakers. Each harvest brings a new challenge, a new song to write, ensuring that while the wine may vary with the season, it consistently captures Bellavista's unmistakable style.

Formed during the geological glaciation of the Secondary and Tertiary periods, Franciacorta's landscape offers a rich tapestry of diverse soils, each uniquely contributing to the cultivation of vines. Recognized since ancient times, this region experienced a renaissance in the 1970s, transforming into Italy's stronghold for premium sparkling wines. Pioneers like Vittorio Moretti envisioned a perfect blend of wine, landscape and identity, echoing the harmonious symphony of passions that defines Franciacorta today.

Enter the “Alma Grande Cuvée” Franciacorta Brut – a culmination of Bellavista's commitment to excellence. Made primarily from Chardonnay, accompanied by Pinot Nero and a touch of Pinot Bianco, this cuvée is a harmonious blend of various harvest selections, including some prized "reserve" wines from previous vintages. Part of its distinctive character comes from fermentation in small white oak barrels, which lends complexity and intensity.

Visually, the "Alma Grande Cuvée" Franciacorta Brut enchants with its straw yellow hue, interrupted by vibrant green reflections and a continuous, fine perlage. The nose is treated to a symphony of aromas: from sun-drenched fruits such as apples and pears to delicate blossoms, underlined by refined hints of vanilla and fresh bakery pastries. On the palate, this sparkling gemstone really sings. The bold citrus flavors blend seamlessly with subtle almond notes, all elevated by fresh, vibrant acidity. The finish is both long and harmonious, with nuanced roasted notes.

Pairing such an elegant wine requires thoughtfulness. Its sharpness and depth make it a perfect match for seafood entrees, especially oysters and scallops. The subtle creaminess of the wine complementeert the rich risottos and pasta dishes, especially those with white sauces or fresh seafood ingredients. For those who prefer meat, light poultry dishes, perhaps a lemon-herb roast chicken, would be delicious. And for brunch or an early afternoon treat, try it alongside a gourmet eggs benedict. Every sip promises to elevate your dining experience, making every meal feel like a special occasion. Cheers to Bellavista's promise of perfection in a bottle!