Wine Advocate: 93 pts
Antica Fratta has produced a uniquely beautiful sparkling wine from Northern Italy. The 2007 Franciacorta Quintessence Extra Brut Riserva is stylized and sophisticated with forthcoming aromas of peach, baked bread, croissant and preserved lemon. The perlage is focused and tight, and the wine ends with a generous blast of honey-like intensity. A blend of 80% Chardonnay and 20% Pinot Nero, it delivers full intensity. Sur lies aging has been extended to five years. The first vintage of this Riserva was 2005.
Wine Enthusiast: 90 pts
A blend of 55% Pinot Nero and 45% Chardonnay, this opens with aromas of honey, beeswax, acacia, vanilla and toast. The rich palate shows some complexity, delivering bread crust, lemon, apple, hazelnut and candied ginger alongside vibrant acidity and a soft, persistent mousse.