Ca’di Frara, Oltre Il Classico Brut (100% Pinot Nero)

Ca’ di Frara is a respected family-owned winery in Lombardy, specialising in expressive wines that highlight the region’s unique terroir. Founded in 1905, the estate is located in the heart of the Oltrepò Pavese, Italy’s premier area for Pinot Nero (Pinot Noir) sparkling wines. With a focus on tradition and sustainability, Ca’ di Frara crafts elegant, terroir-driven wines that showcase the finesse and complexity of Pinot Nero.

Oltre Il Classico Brut is made using the Charmat method, undergoing a slow secondary fermentation in stainless steel to enhance its crispness and refine its perlage. The Oltrepò Pavese’s limestone-rich soils and cool climate provide the perfect conditions for Pinot Nero, preserving its acidity while allowing delicate aromatics to develop. A brief period of lees ageing adds depth and texture, creating a sparkling wine that balances freshness with elegance.

Appearance: Pale golden yellow with soft copper reflections, a signature of Pinot Nero. The perlage is fine and persistent, forming a continuous stream of tiny bubbles that enhance its elegance in the glass. The mousse is delicate yet lively, hinting at its well-crafted structure.

Aroma: Fresh and inviting, with vibrant notes of green apple, pear, and white peach. Floral hints of acacia and citrus blossom add elegance, while subtle brioche and almond notes from lees ageing bring extra depth. A delicate minerality, reminiscent of wet stone, completes the aromatic profile.

Taste: Crisp and refreshing, yet beautifully balanced. Ripe orchard fruits lead, with notes of lemon zest and a touch of redcurrant adding brightness. The fine bubbles create a creamy mouthfeel, while a subtle nutty and toasty character from the lees ageing adds complexity. A backbone of zesty acidity keeps the wine lively and precise.

Finish: Clean and refined, with lingering citrus, green apple skin, and a light saline note that enhances the mineral-driven freshness. A gentle yeasty richness lingers, leaving an elegant and refreshing impression.

Food Pairing: A versatile sparkling wine that pairs beautifully with fresh seafood, such as oysters or smoked salmon, where its acidity and bubbles enhance the dish’s delicacy. It also complements creamy burrata with basil and olive oil, balancing richness with freshness. For a plant-based option, try it with a citrus and fennel salad, highlighting the wine’s crisp, mineral-driven character.