Franca Contea – Satèn Millesimato (Franciacorta DOCG) is one of the most elegant, “silky” styles in Franciacorta. Satèn is made exclusively from white grapes (here 100% Chardonnay) and bottled at a lower pressure than standard Franciacorta. This creates a softer, creamier mousse and a velvety mouthfeel—hence the name Satèn.
This is also a millesimato (vintage-dated wine), meaning it reflects the character of the year more clearly and often shows a more focused, serious profile. Part of the base wine (around 20%) is fermented in oak, adding extra structure and a discreet nutty depth without taking over. After the second fermentation in bottle, the wine spends extended time on the lees (around 48 months), building complexity and delivering that beautiful balance of freshness and roundness that top Satèn should have.
In the glass it shows a shimmering straw-yellow colour with golden highlights and a soft, fine mousse. The nose is clean and nuanced, with herbal notes, lightly toasted hints, and fresh fruit leaning toward pineapple, citrus, and almond. The palate is medium-bodied and elegant, with beautifully integrated bubbles, yellow-fruit flavours, and a subtle, appetising gentle bitterness that adds tension and length. The finish is long and harmonious—creamy in depth, yet still bright and fresh.
Serving & food pairing
Serve at 8–10°C and give it a minute in the glass to open up. Satèn is superb as an aperitif when you want something extra smooth and refined, but it also shines with oysters, shellfish, white fish, sushi, and dishes with a touch of creaminess—such as risotto, pasta with delicate sauces, or poultry. The silky mousse makes it highly food-friendly, while the acidity keeps everything fresh and clean.
About the producer – Franca Contea
Franca Contea is a family-run producer in Franciacorta focused on precision and a clean, pure expression. From vineyard to cellar, the work is meticulous, aiming to craft sparkling wines that feel elegant, balanced, and clearly shaped by their origin. The estate’s style blends craftsmanship with modern technique, resulting in fresh fruit, fine structure, and a clear sense of quality in both mousse and overall harmony.
