1701 Franciacorta

Giulio Salti & the Stefini Family — Lombardy

1701 Franciacorta is a pioneering estate in Italy's premier sparkling wine region. Led by winemaker Giulio Salti and proprietors Federico and Silvia Stefini, the winery has become a beacon for biodynamic viticulture and non-interventionist winemaking. Founded in 2011, it holds the distinction of being the first and only certified biodynamic producer in the Franciacorta DOCG, with both organic and Demeter certifications. Their wines are a pure and honest expression of their unique terroir, challenging the conventional image of Franciacorta with their vibrancy and natural purity.

A Philosophy of Life and Terroir

The philosophy at 1701 Franciacorta is rooted in a deep respect for the land. They believe in cultivating a balanced ecosystem and allowing the grapes to express their inherent character without manipulation. The estate's name, "1701," refers to a year of significance in the history of winemaking on their property.

• Biodynamic Farming: The entire 10-hectare estate is farmed biodynamically. They enrich the sandy, loamy soil with humus and microbiological life, meticulously managing their vineyards to promote a healthy ecosystem.

• Low Intervention: In the cellar, they practice "light oenology," minimizing manipulation to allow the grapes to express their character and the authenticity of the terroir.

• No Dosage: The majority of their wines are pas dosé, meaning no sugar is added after disgorgement. This practice is a statement of their confidence in the quality of the grapes and a commitment to producing wines that are pure and unadulterated.

The Vineyards and Terroir

The vineyards are located on morainic soils in the heart of Franciacorta, a terroir formed by glacial activity that imparts a distinctive mineral quality to the wines.

• Location: Cazzago San Martino, in the Franciacorta DOCG, Lombardy.

• Vineyard Area: 10 hectares.

• Grape Varieties: The domaine's focus is on the classic grapes of Franciacorta: Chardonnay (8 hectares) and Pinot Noir (2 hectares).

• Soils: The soils are sandy and loamy with a morainic origin. This unique geological composition contributes to the wines' elegance, finesse, and distinct minerality.

Winemaking and Process

The winemaking at 1701 Franciacorta is a precise and thoughtful process, designed to preserve the purity of the grapes.

• Indigenous Yeast Fermentation: All grapes are fermented with native yeasts, which are prepared from a pied de cuve to ensure a healthy and spontaneous fermentation. Each vineyard parcel is fermented separately.

• Aging on Lees: The wines are aged on their lees for an extended period, well beyond the DOCG minimum. Most wines spend at least 30 months on the lees, while some vintage releases age for a minimum of 40 months. This long aging process develops complex aromas and a refined texture.

• Experimental Vintages: The winery also engages in experimental projects, such as a Sullerba Pet-Nat and a Chardonnay aged entirely in terracotta amphorae, showcasing their creative and forward-thinking approach.

Address & Contact

1701 Franciacorta is a working winery. Visits are by appointment only.

• Address: Via Cantone 11, 25046 Cazzago San Martino (BS), Italy.