2021 Nino Franco Nodi Prosecco DOCG

A Prosecco with spark and polish! This is the kind of Prosecco that sets the bar high. It’s super dry and carries fresh, zesty fruit characters locked in tight with brisk acidity. Lemon sorbet, citrus, grapefruit pith scents lift with green apple and Asian pear. There is great drive, line and length to the palate with a delectable lemon character running strong. A touch of almond skin mixes with quince, citrus and a tart lemon zestiness. Prosecco gets serious and this is a reminder of just how good it can be, not to mention, delicious.

This is simply one of the most serious bottles of Prosecco I have ever encountered and it shows that the region can play in the big leagues of sparkling wine. The price certainly puts it in the same batting line-up as many of the better non-vintage champagnes, let alone top Aussies and others, so it has to be good. Pale straw in colour, we have aromas weaving throughout spices, citrus notes, pears, oatmeal, peaches and figs. There is good intensity and impressive length, while it remains well balanced at every stage. There is a hint of toast and lemon butter on the finish. I’d be inclined to be drinking it now and over the next five years, though it will undoubtedly handle a few years beyond that. The question of age might be one that separates it from the top champers, but it is really only relevant for purists and those who like the character of aged sparklers. An example that will stand alongside many bottles from France’s most famous fizz region in that respect.