Franciacorta, not Prosecco, is Italy’s answer to Champagne, where the wines are produced via the same technique, with the same varietals in a similar, cool climate on limestone rich soils. The Barboglio family inherited the estate in 1836, though the cellars on their property date back to the 16th century. With the introduction of the Franciacorta DOC in 1968, Emanuela Barboglio, fourth generation winemaker, began the estate’s focus on sparkling wine. Now run by the 5th gen, her children Giulio and Lucia, Il Mosnel is cultivated and certified organic. Their non-vintage wine is a blend of Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier, from high density, low-yielding vines that are hand harvested, gently pressed, are fermented partly in oak, partly in stainless. The wine rests on its fine lees until the following spring when the arduous task of tasting and blending takes place to determine the final composition. The second fermentation takes place in bottle. The wines are disgorged with a low dosage. Il Mosnel is delicate, light and lean with fine, persistent bubbles, subtle citrus notes and a hint of toasty brioche. Pairs wonderfully with cheese and charcuterie, shellfish or Tiramisu!