Wine Advocate: 92 pts
Who doesn't have a soft spot for rosé sparkling wine from Italy? I know I do. The 2014 Franciacorta Essence Brut Rosé Millesimato (with 20 months of lees' aging) is a polished and silky expression. The bouquet opens to fragrant tones of wild berry, cassis, sweet almond and garden herb. There is a touch of white licorice or crushed white pepper as well. The perlage is fine and persistent. This wine is a blend of Pinot Nero and Chardonnay. Some 50,000 bottles were made.