A few years ago, I discovered Franciacorta in a Masterclass hosted by IEEM. I also remember hearing for the first time that Ricardo Ricci Curbastro was the president of the FEDERDOC at that time. He spoke eloquently, and his character transcended the podium, making an impression on me. His appearance and presence impressed me, as if he had seen much but could be humble and remain calm and aware of himself all the time. Therefore, I left with that image and will always remember his name, persistence, and many layers of his Sparkling Traditional Method wines produced in the same region that bears his name: Franciacorta DOC.
Years later, when I received an invitation to a press trip organized by IEEM, with a visit to Ricci Curbastro Winery as the first part of the engagement, I was brimming with anticipation. The name and the Franciacorta wines were etched in my memory. I was thrilled to finally get to know firsthand the winery of the remarkable man who had left a lasting impression on me in New York.
Franciacorta is located in the upper thigh of the Italian boot, about 40 miles south of Milan. Once, it was a region that didn’t belong to Italy; it was the “Free Courts,” i.e., freeways, that belonged to the Catholic Church.
Franciacorta is a wine region that produces high-quality sparkling wines. These Sparkling Wines use the traditional method. The main types of wine produced in Franciacorta are Franciacorta DOCG, which includes non-vintage, vintage, and rosé sparkling wines. These Sparkling Wines are elegant, complex, and with refined bubbles, making them popular among wine connosieurs. The grapes used in the Franciacorta production are primarily Chardonnay, Pinot Nero, and Pinot Blanc. White and red still wines are produced in the region but in a minor quantity.
The Ricci Curbastro winery is a beacon of excellence in sparkling wine production in the heart of Franciacorta, Italy. The founder, Gualberto Ricci Curbastro, played a pivotal role in shaping the Franciacorta DOC and establishing the region’s reputation for world-class wines.
In 1967, the same year the Franciacorta DOC was established, Gualberto Ricci Curbastro embarked on a journey to modernize the family’s existing winery and vineyard. His forward-thinking approach and unwavering commitment to quality laid the groundwork for the winery’s future success.
Gualberto’s influence extended far beyond his estate. He was a driving force behind the creation and development of the Franciacorta DOC, championing strict production standards and the use of traditional methods to ensure the highest quality sparkling wines. His leadership and advocacy helped elevate Franciacorta’s standing on the global stage.
The family also has a Wine Museum, and the pioneering spirit embraced them to join this artistic endeavor. Different rudimentary tools used in different farm areas before they evolved into a winery, such as food production, farming tasks, and other rural endeavors, were preserved and continue to be a testament to where they were. It was a delightful moment to start touring the Wine Museum as it was taken from the book. Moreover, Ricardo Ricci Curbastro was a lovely host; his character and personality shined throughout the visit, and he shared facts about the area, his family, silk production, and even the origins of denim.
Today, the Ricci Curbastro winery remains a family affair, with Gualberto’s sons carrying on his legacy. Ricardo Ricci Curbastro upholds the winery’s commitment to excellence, producing exceptional Franciacorta wines that reflect the region’s unique terroir. This commitment to quality is not just a promise; it’s a guarantee.
At the same time, he is involved in this business’s commercial and winemaking side. He is passing on the tradition and cultural heritage to the 18th generation of this family. His son Gualberto is in charge of the commercial side. His younger son is learning the ropes of the winemaking side. This strong family legacy makes you feel connected to a tradition of excellence. Moreover, during our visit to the winery, seeing the treatise between the two was good. Despite being fully focused on the business, a sense of familiarity is only found in family affairs.
Ricci Curbastro’s wines are some of the best expressions of Franciacorta. They are consistent on the production of elegant and fine Franciacorta. They are crafted using the traditional method, with secondary fermentation taking place in the bottle, resulting in a fine and persistent perlage. The winery’s portfolio includes a variety of styles, from the crisp Brut to the rich Saten, catering to diverse palates.
After the Wine Museum visit and a walk around the winery and cellar location, we headed to a magnificent vertical tasting. I wish I could have drink them all but my Sommelier ethics always hits. Good for your to know that we had so many unique vintages available in the US through wine.com, for instance.
Particularly, I was in awe by the finesse of Franciacorta Extra Brut DOCG (2020). There was character on the bubbles, persistent but soft and small, with tertiary notes of brioche and crisp great to pair with food. I brought just one bottle home, which was not enough. This was also my first time trying a still red wine from the Franciacorta region: Curtefranca Rosso D.O.C. It was a Bordeaux blend with Burgundy character. If that’s even possible, it had to be in Franciacorta. In plain words, it is a bold red wine with the acidity and easy-to-drink characteristics of a Burgundian wine. Another great surprise was the still Pinot Nero from the region.
The Ricci Curbastro family’s dedication to sustainable practices is not just a commitment; it’s a way of life. They embrace of organic farming methods and various initiatives to minimize environmental impact. Their collective efforts are a testament to their unwavering commitment to the land and the future.
During our visit, we were aware of how much attention the family had to put into the weather, ventilation, and sun throughout the production chain. They are the first B Corp certified in Franciacorta. The certification attests to their compromise on the engagement towards natural resources and safeguarding the employees and their company. This dedication reflects their profound respect for the land and their desire to preserve it for future generations, inspiring others in the industry.
The Ricci Curbastro winery exemplifies the passion, dedication, and innovation that have made Franciacorta a globally recognized wine region. The influence of its founder, Gualberto Ricci Curbastro, continues to resonate today, not only in the winery’s exceptional wines but also in the high standards and prestige of the Franciacorta DOC itself.
If you can visit Franciacorta, include a visit to the Ricci Curbastro winery on your itinerary. You’ll savor their exceptional wines and experience this remarkable family’s rich history and heritage. Moreover, you will be a witness of their contribution to the world of sparkling wine. More information at https://www.riccicurbastro.it/
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