winery profile: Rizzini – Franciacorta, Italy

Rizzini – Masters of Single Vineyard Long-Aged Franciacorta Blanc de Blancs

Founded in 1985, Rizzini is a small, family-owned winery in the heart of Franciacorta, Italy, dedicated exclusively to crafting vintage Blanc de Blancs sparkling wines from their ‘single cru’ vineyard. Nestled at the base of the Monticelli Brusati hills, their two-hectare estate was replanted in 1995 and 2000, focusing entirely on Chardonnay — where they have been focused on producing the finest expressions of traditional method sparkling wine from their unique terroir each year.

Led by Guido Rizzini, the estate follows a philosophy of patience and precision. Unlike many producers, Rizzini exclusively produces vintage wines, never blending across years, allowing each harvest to fully express its unique characteristics. Central to their style is extended lees aging, with all wines resting on the lees for a minimum of 60 months, while reserve cuvées undergo over 10 years of aging before disgorgement. This lengthy maturation develops remarkable autolytic complexity, contributing layers of brioche, toasted almond, and pastry notes alongside bright citrus and mineral-driven freshness.

Rizzini’s Franciacorta Blanc de Blancs is distinguished by its exceptionally fine bubbles, intricate aromatics, and profound textural richness, resulting in wines of both elegance and intensity. Their unwavering dedication to quality and tradition places them among the most respected long-aged sparkling wine producers in Franciacorta, although their low production means you’re unlikely to find them widely available in your market, making them a rare gem alongside the big sparkling houses.

During a tasting at the estate winery in February I had the pleasure of tasting several of their vintage Blanc de Blancs. Here are my perspectives on a few of the wines tasted with winemaker Guido Rizzini.

2017 Brut. 13% ABV, 68 months sur lees. Disgorged November 2023. Fresh, delicious orchard fruit, crisp apple, flinty minerality. The palate repeats with great intensity, a streak of lime zest and mineral persisting on the long linear finish. 94 points. Tasted February 2025. Matt Steeves – http://www.quercusvino.ca

2016 Zero Dosage. 72 months sur lees. <1g/L. Disgorged March 2023. Impressive autolytic character, orchard fruit, zesty citrus. Very different aromatic profile compared to the 2017 Brut. 93 points. Tasted February 2025. Matt Steeves – http://www.quercusvino.ca

2010 Selezione Extra Brut. 12.5% ABV, 144 months (12 years) sur lees. 3g/L. Disgorged April 2023. There’s a richness which is counter balanced with exceptional refreshing citrus character. The nose shows baked apple, pear, honey, and floral notes. The palate is harmonious with all components singing in perfect harmony. Great acidity, the lime zest and minerality persisting with fine tannins adding textural complexity. This is a stunning expression showing the potential of single vineyard long lees aging Franciacorta. Enjoy over the next two decades. 96+ points. Tasted February 2025. Matt Steeves – http://www.quercusvino.ca

2005 Nature Riserva. 120 months sur lees. Disgorged May 2016. A masterclass in vintage sparkling wine, showcasing exceptional complexity and depth, this wine embodies the best of classic traditional method wine, with distinct Franciacorta DNA. Its expressive lees influence is beautifully apparent, with inviting aromas of toasted bread and rich, nutty almond character that deepen with each swirl. On the palate, it mirrors these notes with remarkable complexity, as the long aging process allows the wine to reveal layers of flavour with a creamy mousse texture. Vibrant and energetic, this single-vineyard beauty highlights the benefits of both extended lees aging and bottle maturation—nearly a decade of each has resulted in a wine with outstanding structure and balance. After two decades it’s in pristine shape – a perfect example of why investing in premium sparkling wines from cru vineyards will reward those with the foresight and patience. Highly recommended. 96 points. Tasted February 2025. Matt Steeves – http://www.quercusvino.ca

If you’re planning a trip to northern Italy, make sure to include a visit to the Franciacorta region, where their world-class sparkling wines are earning top accolades and the attention of savvy wine enthusiasts worldwide. Franciacorta is quickly gaining recognition as a major contender to Champagne. With its picturesque landscapes, close proximity to Milan, Verona, and especially Lake Garda, it’s the perfect addition to any northern Italy travel itinerary. A stop in this wine region offers a unique opportunity to taste some of Italy’s finest sparkling wines, showcasing impressive craftsmanship and elegance that rivals some of the best in the world. Check it out and see for yourself how Franciacorta is making its mark on the global sparking wine scene.