2018 Franciacorta DOCG Brut "Essence Rosé" (Deg.: 02/2022), Lombardy, Italy

Slightly smoky, herbal and delicately tobacco nose of pome fruits, citrus fruits and red berries, mushrooms and a hint of pepper. Fine, sweet fruit, nutty, hints of bacon and tobacco, fresh butter on the palate, very fine, moderate mousseux, good substance and persistence, red berry flavours, a hint of vanilla in the background, hints of ethereal spice, very good, again sweetish finish.

Best to drink: Bis 2023. What our ratings mean