In episode 222 of The Drinking Hour Podcast, host David Kermode explores the wines of Franciacorta with Renato Della Bartolomea of Freccianera Fratelli Berlucchi, a winery that took the IWSC’s Wine Producer Trophy for the region in 2025.
The pair discuss what makes Franciacorta special and what sets it apart from Prosecco and Champagne, including the grape varieties, winemaking methods and ageing approach that make it unique. Della Bartolomea explains how shifting tastes amongst Italian wine drinkers means there’s an increasing demand for metodo classico wines in the country and why Franciacorta’s quality and versatility makes it worth seeking out, whether for the dining table or a party.
To read more about the what impressed judges at the inaugural IWSC in-situ judging in Franciacorta earlier this year, including a tasting note for Freccianera’s 95-point Casa delle Colonne, read Essi Avellan’s story here.
