Lake Iseo, or Sebino, forms the backdrop to a wine-growing landscape where water, hills and the Pre-Alpine ranges create conditions that are particularly favourable for vine cultivation. The area stretches from the shores of the lake to the surrounding hillsides, encompassing diverse wine-growing regions that are united by a strong sense of local identity. The presence of the lake moderates temperatures, softens temperature fluctuations and contributes to a balanced microclimate, whilst the air currents descending from the valleys promote ventilation in the vineyards and the gradual ripening of the grapes.
In the southern part, the hills of Franciacorta are shaped by ancient glacial deposits, with morainic, fluvioglacial, lacustrine and alluvial soils composed of pebbles, sand, silt and clay. This variety of soil types, together with the different exposures and altitudes, results in wines characterised by freshness, aromatic finesse, savouriness and complexity. On the hills of the Bergamo area, meanwhile, soils of eluvial and marl-clay origin are found, suitable for the production of white, red and passito wines.
The most representative grape varieties include Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Blanc, which are the stars of the sparkling cuvées produced through secondary fermentation in the bottle and prolonged ageing on the lees. Alongside the sparkling wines, there are still wines made from Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Pinot Noir and Moscato Giallo, as well as interpretations of Sebino and Valcalepio. Red wine production often involves processing the varieties separately, followed by blending and periods of ageing in oak and in the bottle; for sweet wines, the grapes are left to dry, thereby concentrating the aromas and sugar content.
The winemaking tradition, attested to by historical records and the centuries-old presence of monastic and farming communities, continues today through meticulous vineyard management and an increasingly careful interpretation of the terroir’s diverse expressions.