Following in the footsteps of his famous grandfather, Angelo Maci, Francesco Fortunato Maci is the newest winemaker at Cantine Due Palme. This three-time Italian Winery of the Year makes our best-selling southern Italian reds (like Pillastro), but Francesco wanted to prove they could also craft a fine sparkler to rival Prosecco. Thus, Altestelle Spumante was born.

Unique among sparkling wines, Altestelle is crafted from Negroamaro, a red grape with high acidity that imparts unparalleled vibrancy and structure to the bubbly. (The wine is white in color, because Francesco doesn’t let the red grape skins mingle with the juice.) Offering more complexity and finesse than Prosecco, it has delicate bubbles, wonderful freshness plus ripe apple, pear and lemon flavors. It’s already won a coveted gold medal from leading wine guide Gilbert & Gaillard, too. Judges wrote:

“Crisp nose of juicy white fruit, with a floral dimension (acacia). Harmonious on the palate, entirely devoted to fruity expression, in a simple, friendly, gourmet style. A supple, charming Extra Dry.”

Extra Dry, by the way, is a smidge sweeter than a “Brut” sparkling wine, but still delightfully dry and fresh. Enjoy a glass on its own or pair it with hors d’oeuvres, seafood, creamy pastas and more.

Altestelle means “high stars,” as Francesco and his team always aim sky-high when crafting their top-quality wines. Order your share today, then let us know if you give Altestelle “high stars” with an online review.