Who makes it?

Duca Diseo is one of Italy’s Champagne inspired sparkling wines from the Lombardia region of Franciacorta. It has one of a very extensive range of sparkling wines made by Cantina Chiara Ziliani. The Cantina is a family owned estate founded in 2001. The estate shares its name with the founder’s daughter, Chiara. 

The estate also grows Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot and two Northern Italian natives, Nebbiolo and Barbera. They make a still red wine with this blend.

How do they make it?

Franciacorta has a special place in Italy in amongst the huge presence of Prosecco and Asti alternatives.  The region produces ripe and rich traditionally made sparkling wines using international grape varieties rather than native or endemic Northern Italian. 

The Duca Diseo is a fizz sourced from the vineyards of Provaglio d’Iseo using the traditional Champagne duo. It is no surprise then that it is a blend of 75% Chardonnay with Pinot Noir making up the rest. It has spent 24 months on lees in its bottle. 

What does it taste like?

The Duca Diseo is a dry fizz. It is perfumed with pear and peach with plenty of cream and biscuit. It is remarkably fresh. However, it is a big mouthful as many Franciacorta sparkling wines are. The finish is long and lingering.

Is this a good value alternative to Champagne? Yes. But Franciacorta is well worth searching out as curvaceous and mouthfilling sparkling wine in its own right.

What to drink it with?

There is enough complexity and depth to make this wine a great match with a wide range of food.  From the Italian traditional dishes such as risotto, chicken and pesto pasta, to a cheese roulade or white fish stew through to roast chicken salad.

Cheese

Soft bloomy cheeses that are a traditional match with Champagne such as Brie and Camembert. Also fresh tangy cheese such as feta and chevre.

Quickie review « This is a great entry into Franciacorta offering mouthfuls of fruit and creamy biscuit. »

Country of Origin: Franciacorta DOCG, Italy
Tasting Date: March 2023
Price:  UK £20 | €16   
Needs food: no
Source: purchase

If you like Franciacorta wines, why not check out:
Majolica Franciacorta Brut

Visit cantinachiaraziliani.it for more.