Disgorged in July 2013, the 2009 Franciacorta Saten Brut shows a light and mildly fragrant style with a luminous, crystalline appearance and persistent perlage. Yeasty notes wrap around the finish but you’ll also get pretty tones of stone fruit, spice and crushed flower. Bright acidity pins down the finish. Drink: 2014-2017. This historic estate suffered a huge loss this past August with the death of founder Gualberto Ricci Curbastro. He was among that tight group of visionaries who created Franciacorta. Today, his son Riccardo has embarked on many new projects to fulfill his father’s legacy. Among them is a special experimental vineyard dedicated to children in the local school system curious to learn more about the growing and production of wine grapes. Importer: Domenico Valentino Selections; www.domenicovalentino.com