Ca' del Bosco

Ca' del Bosco is a prestigious winery located in the Lombardy region of Italy, specifically within the Franciacorta area, which is renowned for its high-quality sparkling wines. Founded in the 1960s by Maurizio Zanella, Ca' del Bosco has grown to become one of the leading producers of Franciacorta, contributing significantly to the appellation's reputation on both a national and international level.

History[edit | edit source]

The story of Ca' del Bosco began in the late 1960s when Annamaria Clementi Zanella purchased a small house, surrounded by chestnut woods, in the Franciacorta region. Her son, Maurizio Zanella, was inspired by the potential of the land and, after a trip to Champagne, France, decided to focus on the production of high-quality sparkling wines. The winery was officially established in 1968, and over the years, it has been at the forefront of innovation and quality in the Franciacorta DOCG.

Viticulture and Winemaking[edit | edit source]

Ca' del Bosco's approach to viticulture is characterized by a commitment to sustainability and the meticulous care of its vineyards. The winery practices organic farming, although it is not officially certified as organic. The grapes are handpicked, and a unique washing and drying system for the grapes, known as the "berry spa," is one of the innovative techniques employed to ensure the quality of the wine.

The winemaking process at Ca' del Bosco is a blend of tradition and innovation, with a strong emphasis on preserving the purity and character of the grapes. The winery is known for its Franciacorta sparkling wines, which are produced using the traditional method, similar to that used in Champagne. This involves a secondary fermentation in the bottle, followed by extended aging on the lees to develop complexity and depth.

Products[edit | edit source]

Ca' del Bosco's portfolio includes a range of Franciacorta wines, from the non-vintage Cuvée Prestige to the vintage Cuvée Annamaria Clementi, named in honor of the founder's mother. The winery also produces still wines, including Chardonnay, Pinot Nero, and a Bordeaux-style blend, reflecting the diversity of the Franciacorta terroir.

Awards and Recognition[edit | edit source]

Over the years, Ca' del Bosco has received numerous accolades for its wines, underscoring its status as a benchmark for quality in the Franciacorta region. The winery's commitment to excellence has been recognized by wine critics and competitions around the world.

Visiting Ca' del Bosco[edit | edit source]

Ca' del Bosco welcomes visitors for tours and tastings, offering a glimpse into the meticulous process behind the creation of its wines. The winery's architecture, with its modern design and integration into the surrounding landscape, reflects the innovative spirit of Ca' del Bosco.

Conclusion[edit | edit source]

Ca' del Bosco stands as a testament to the vision of its founder, Maurizio Zanella, and the potential of the Franciacorta region. Through a combination of tradition and innovation, the winery continues to produce sparkling wines that are celebrated for their quality and character, making it a cornerstone of the Franciacorta appellation.