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Introduction: Franciacorta’s Hidden Still Wines
While Franciacorta sparkling wines rightfully steal the spotlight as Italy’s answer to Champagne, few wine lovers know that the same prestigious terroir also produces elegant still wines under the Curtefranca DOC designation. These whites, built on Chardonnay, and reds, often led by Merlot and Cabernet blends, deliver refinement at a fraction of the price of sparkling Franciacorta. For travelers and collectors alike, Curtefranca represents a hidden gem of Lombardy—a chance to taste the quiet side of one of Italy’s most famous wine regions.
What Makes Curtefranca Different from Franciacorta Sparkling?
The key distinction lies in style and designation.
- Franciacorta DOCG: Sparkling wines made via the traditional method, aged on lees for months or years.
- Curtefranca DOC: Still wines (both white and red) made from the same vineyards, emphasizing terroir purity rather than bubbles.
This split became official in 1995 (with the original Terre di Franciacorta designation) and was renamed Curtefranca in 2008 to avoid consumer confusion.
👉 Related reading: Franciacorta DOCG: Italy’s Premier Sparkling Wine
Curtefranca Wine Styles and Grape Varieties
Curtefranca Bianco (White Wines)
- Minimum 50% Chardonnay
- Up to 50% Pinot Bianco and/or Pinot Nero (vinified as white)
Style: Crisp and refined with citrus, white flowers, and a mineral backbone.
Curtefranca Rosso (Red Wines)
- At least 25% Merlot
- 20–35% Cabernet Franc and/or Carmenère
- 10–35% Cabernet Sauvignon
- Up to 15% other approved red grapes
Style: Ruby-colored, medium-bodied, fruit-forward with subtle spice and herbal lift.
👉 Explore more: Italian Chardonnay Wines | Best Lombardy Red Wines*
Best Curtefranca Producers and Wineries
Although Curtefranca wines are less famous than their sparkling counterparts, top Franciacorta houses also bottle impressive still wines:
- Ca’ del Bosco – Known for structured, vineyard-designated Bianco.
- Bellavista – Elegant, age-worthy Bianco and Rosso selections.
- Contadi Castaldi – Modern, approachable styles for everyday drinking.
- Barone Pizzini – Organic pioneer producing balanced still whites.
- Guido Berlucchi – Historical producer offering value-driven Curtefranca.
Value Analysis: Why Choose Curtefranca?
For wine explorers, Curtefranca offers serious value:
- Pricing: Typically €10–30 per bottle (premium “Vigna” bottlings higher).
- Comparison: Far less expensive than Franciacorta sparkling or Barolo, yet crafted by the same producers and terroir.
- Travel Angle: Available widely at cellars across Franciacorta, often included in tasting flights for visitors.
How to Serve and Pair Curtefranca Wines
- Bianco: Best served chilled with freshwater fish, creamy risotti, or alpine cheeses.
- Rosso: Ideal with roasted poultry, ossobuco, or Brescian specialties like casoncelli (stuffed pasta).
👉 Pair with: Lombardy Food & Wine Guide
FAQ on Curtefranca DOC
- Q: What is the difference between Franciacorta and Curtefranca?
A: Franciacorta refers exclusively to sparkling DOCG wines, while Curtefranca covers still whites and reds. - Q: What does “Vigna” on a Curtefranca label mean?
A: It indicates a single-vineyard bottling with stricter yields and longer aging. - Q: Is Curtefranca rare outside Italy?
A: Yes—exports are limited, making it a rewarding find for adventurous wine lovers.
Fun Fact & Cultural Note
The name “Curtefranca” originates from curtes francae—medieval monastic farms exempt from taxes. This centuries-old connection underscores the region’s deep agricultural heritage.
Call to Action
Curtefranca may not yet be a household name, but that’s precisely its charm. Next time you explore Franciacorta’s rolling vineyards, look beyond the bubbles and ask for a Curtefranca Bianco or Rosso.
👉 Join our newsletter for curated Italian wine discoveries and insider travel tips—or share your Curtefranca tasting experience with the Drink Italian community.
Have fun to learn more about Italian Wines and Spirits! Explore also the non-alcoholic beverages
Send us an email if you want to suggest edits, or if you are looking for more info, at
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If you are in the mood for a good book, you can try:
– The Modern History of Italian Wine by Walter Filipputti
– Hidden Gems of Italy: An Insider’s Secret Formula To Find Top-Class Italian Wines At Value Prices And Taste La Dolce Vita by Tony Margiotta
Additionally, you can discover the other wines from Piedmont.
