One of the emerging estates in Italy's booming sparkling wine sector. Roberto Gatti spent 20 years as cellarmaster and viticulturalist at Bellavista, one of the early pioneers of the Franciacorta region, before creating Ferghettina in 1990. A new winery and cellars, started in 2002, were completed in 2005 and sit in a magnificent location overlooking the beautiful Lake Iseo. Roberto is assisted by his daughter Laura, also an oenologist, shortly to be joined by his son Matteo. The Gatti's control production of Chardonnay and Pinot Noir, using only half of the grapes available for their production of 300,000 bottles. Meticulous attention to detail, skillful blending and long bottle maturation give wines of great finesse and individuality. The 'Italy's answer to Champagne' tag is unavoidable but these wines are much more than that.

Franciacorta Blanc de Noir Eronero is produced only in particularly hot years from the selection of grapes from two vineyards located in the municipality of Erbusco.

The whole bunch grapes are vinified with the use of the marmonnier press, an ancient pressing system that guarantees maximum respect for the characteristics of the Pinot Noir grape. Only the free-run must is extracted from the press. Alcoholic fermentation is carried out in steel tanks at a controlled temperature between 16 and 18 °C. The base wine rests in the tank until the spring following the harvest. Eronero is aged on its lees for 84 months.

The perfect pairing for a seared duck breast with a cherry and balsamic reduction. Alternatively enjoy with good conversation and some aged Parmesan and Comte.