Villa Crespia Novalia Brut: A Refreshing but Unremarkable Franciacorta Sparkling Wine
Villa Crespia Novalia Brut is a fresh, sharp, and not very original Franciacorta sparkling wine. It is the typical Chardonnay, which is all pulp and fruit with a hint of minerals.
If you are looking for a fairly savory sparkling wine that can accompany fish dishes, sushi, or Chinese takeaway food, even spicy food, keep it in mind, but don’t expect greatness.
In all honesty, we see way too many Franciacortas that are built rigidly like this. The entry level Villa Crespia had its peculiar spartan and abrupt style, but this Novalia is an anonymous wine.
How it is produced
The Villa Crespia brochure says that the vineyards are spread out over six “crus” with a high “vocational” value.
Each cru is made of its own grapes and then fermented in steel at a controlled temperature with a specific type of yeast.
Five months on the lees, fermentation in the bottle, and rest for 24 months in the bottle.
Organoleptic characteristics
straw-yellow magnolia leaf at the first full moon of the autumn.
Hard and green scents with lime and aromatic herbs, apple and rock, a drizzle of bread yeast, and white chocolate
Overall, the nose is intriguing and broad; it has an inviting and grumpy trait that bodes well.
On the palate, it is smooth and fresh, not very deep, but has rhythm.
The problems are not so much aesthetics and cosmetics as depth and persistence. It’s too thin and gaunt, and it lacks personality.
The persistence languishes, and the aromatic charge runs out quickly, leading to silence.
Price
17–18 euros: the price is in line with other Franciacorta sparkling wines from the competition, but this does not mean that it deserves to be bought.
Food Pairings
Chicken Cacciatore, Vitello Tonnato, truffle risotto, pasta alla carbonara, Pad Thai.