Which grape variety is used to produce the sparkling wine Franciacorta?

Franciacorta is a prestigious sparkling wine from the Lombardy region of Italy, and its production is primarily based on specific grape varieties, most notably Chardonnay. This grape is well-suited for sparkling wine production due to its ability to express a range of flavors and acidity, which is crucial for the complexity and balance sought in sparkling wines.

The method used to produce Franciacorta is similar to that of Champagne, where fermentation occurs in the bottle (known as the méthode champenoise or traditional method). Chardonnay contributes to the freshness and vibrant acidity in Franciacorta, making it an ideal choice for this style of wine. Additionally, Pinot Noir and some other varietals are also permitted in the blend, but Chardonnay is the dominant grape, renowned for its ability to provide richness and finesse in the final product.

The other grape varieties listed are either not used in the production of Franciacorta or are less prominent compared to Chardonnay when it comes to quality sparkling wine. Sangiovese and Merlot are typically associated with red wine production, and Pinot Grigio, while widely used in white wines, does not have the same profile for sparkling wine that Chardonnay possesses.