Prosecco Wine 101: What is Prosecco? What You Need to Know

Are you a wine enthusiast who loves trying out new wines? If you haven't tried Prosecco yet, then you are missing out on something special. In this blog post, we will take you through everything that you need to know about what is Prosecco. We will cover its history, production process, types, and how to serve it best. You will learn about the difference between Prosecco and Champagne and understand what makes Prosecco unique. We will also list down some of the best high-quality Prosecco available in the market that you can try out. So sit back, pour yourself a glass of Prosecco and journey into our vineyards to become a Prosecco expert!

What is prosecco?

Prosecco is a type of sparkling wine that is mainly produced from the Glera grape, although other types may also be used. It can be fully sparkling or semi-sparkling and has gained popularity as an affordable alternative to Champagne.

Where is prosecco made?

Prosecco is a sparkling wine from the Glera grape, originating from the picturesque hills around Valdobbiadene in Italy's Veneto region. It can be either spumante (fully sparkling) or frizzante (semi-sparkling), and boasts light, fruity flavors of green apple, pear, and citrus that distinguish it from Champagne.

Is Prosecco same as Champagne?

No, Prosecco is not the same as Champagne. Prosecco is an Italian sparkling wine made primarily from Glera grapes, while Champagne is a sparkling wine from the Champagne region of France, produced using the traditional method and specific grape varieties (such as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier).

When comparing Prosecco and Champagne, it's important to understand that despite both being sparkling wines, there are significant differences. Prosecco wine has a lighter body compared to Champagne but still offers fruity notes such as green apple, pear, melon, and citrus aromas like lemon and grapefruit. The Brut variant is more popular than Extra Dry or Dry types. In contrast, Champagne comes from France’s Champagne region and is produced using traditional methods with Chardonnay and Pinot Noir grapes which results in an acidic flavor profile that includes toastiness.

The Production Process

Now that you know what is prosecco, let's discuss the production methods. The Prosecco production area includes the provinces of Treviso, Venice, Belluno, and parts of Padua, Vicenza, and Gorizia. Prosecco wine is produced using the Charmat method, which differs from the traditional method used for Champagne. The production process begins with the selection and harvesting of Glera grapes, the primary variety used in Prosecco. After the grapes are carefully picked, they undergo soft pressing to extract the juice, which is then transferred to a stainless steel tank for primary fermentation. During this stage, the grape juice is converted into still wine.

Next comes the crucial step of second fermentation, which gives Prosecco its characteristic bubbles. In the Charmat method, this fermentation takes place in a pressurized stainless steel tank called an autoclave. To initiate the secondary fermentation, a mixture of sugar and yeast, known as the "liqueur de tirage," is added to the still wine in the autoclave. As the yeast consumes the sugar, carbon dioxide is produced, but unlike in the traditional method, the carbonation is captured in the closed autoclave, resulting in the sparkling nature of Prosecco wine. After the desired level of effervescence is achieved, the wine is filtered and undergoes any necessary adjustments before bottling, offering a fresh and delightful sparkling wine ready to be enjoyed.

Grape Varieties

Prosecco's primary grape varieties are Glera and Bianchetta Trevigiana. Glera is widely cultivated for its high acidity; it delivers the signature lightness and aromatics of this sparkling wine that originates from northeastern Italy's Veneto region. Bianchetta adds a touch of complexity to the blend while other grape varieties can also contribute to creating a unique taste profile. Hand-harvested grapes undergo gentle pressing before fermentation in stainless steel tanks using the Charmat method resulting in its characteristic carbon dioxide bubbles.

Types of Prosecco

Just like white wine, there are different types of prosecco and understanding them is key to appreciating this delicious sparkling wine. To start with, always look for wines that have a DOC or DOCG designation which stands for denominazione di origine controllata e garantita). This means they meet strict quality standards and come from specific regions in Northern Italy where the grapes used to make the wine were grown. The labeling of prosecco is also based on sweetness levels:

Prosecco DOC

Prosecco DOC signifies adherence to specific regulations and area of production to label a sparkling wine as "Prosecco." This region is located in northeastern Italy, predominantly in Veneto and Friuli-Venezia Giulia regions. The high-quality designation within this region is Prosecco Superiore DOCG, which indicates the use of superior quality grapes produced under stricter production standards. Careful label reading is essential while selecting Prosecco wines for ensuring the desired style and quality.

Prosecco Superiore DOCG

Prosecco Superiore DOCG is an outstanding sparkling wine from northeastern Italy made according to strict production standards using traditional methods. This top-quality designation indicates that only the finest grapes were used in crafting this delightful beverage, resulting in a crisp and refreshing taste with high acidity levels. Prosecco Superiore DOCG is a light-bodied wine with flavors ranging from green apple and pear to honeysuckle and melon. It is an ideal aperitif or brunch drink, perfect for pairing with light foods or enjoying as a standalone beverage.

Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG

Produced amidst the hills of Valdobbiadene and Conegliano in northeastern Italy, Prosecco Superiore is an exceptional category of Prosecco wine that adheres to stringent production standards. With ideal growing conditions, including optimal soil quality, altitude, and climate, this sparkling wine is subjected to a rigorous quality-control process before being deemed worthy of its name. The highest quality denomination among Proseccos, Valdobbiadene Superiore di Cartizze DOCG surpasses all other varieties with its subtle aroma of honeysuckle and green apples that emerges from the Glera grape used in its production.

Asolo Prosecco Superiore

Asolo Prosecco Superiore or Asolo Prosecco DOCG is a premium sparkling wine produced exclusively in the hilly region of Asolo, located in the Veneto region of northeastern Italy. Made from the indigenous Glera grape variety, this delightful beverage boasts a light and refreshing flavor profile with a crisp acidity that makes it perfect for any occasion. With its bright citrus notes and subtle floral undertones, Asolo Prosecco Superiore pairs beautifully with seafood, light salads, and creamy pasta dishes.

Prosecco Frizzante

Prosecco Frizzante is a semi-sparkling version of Prosecco wine that's perfect for those who prefer a lighter and less bubbly option. Produced using the Charmat method, this sparkling wine undergoes secondary fermentation in stainless steel tanks to create its signature fizz. Unlike its Superiore counterparts, Prosecco Frizzante doesn't adhere to strict production standards and can be made from any grape variety. This makes it a more accessible and affordable choice for casual occasions or as an everyday drink.

Prosecco Spumante

Prosecco Spumante is a lively, effervescent version of Prosecco wine that's perfect for celebratory occasions. Made using the Charmat method, this sparkling wine undergoes secondary fermentation in stainless steel tanks to create its signature bubbles. Prosecco Spumante can be produced from different grape varieties, but Glera is the most commonly used grape for this type of wine. With its crisp and clean taste profile, Prosecco Spumante pairs beautifully with light appetizers and fruity desserts.

How to Serve Prosecco Wine

For the perfect prosecco experience, start by understanding what is Prosecco, then by follow the expert tips shared below:

• Serving Temperature: Prosecco is best served chilled, typically between 40°F (4°C) and 45°F (7°C). Keep the bottle in the refrigerator for a few hours before serving or use a cooler to maintain the desired temperature.
• Opening the Bottle: To preserve the effervescence, handle the bottle of prosecco wine with care. Remove the foil covering the cork, hold the cork firmly, and twist the bottle gently. The cork should ease out with a gentle pop.
• Glassware: Serve prosecco wine in flutes or tulip-shaped glasses. These glass styles help concentrate the aromas and preserve the bubbles for a longer duration. Avoid using wide-rimmed glasses, as they can cause the bubbles to dissipate quickly.
• Pouring: Tilt the glass at a slight angle while pouring prosecco wine to prevent excessive foaming. Start with a small amount in the glass, allowing the foam to settle, and then fill it up gradually.
• Toasting: Prosecco wine is often enjoyed for celebratory toasts. Raise your glass, make eye contact with your fellow toasters, and offer a short, heartfelt toast before taking a sip.
• Storing Opened Bottles: If you have leftover prosecco wine, reclose the bottle tightly with a wine stopper or a sparkling wine closure. Store it in the refrigerator, and consume it within a day or two to maintain the freshness and effervescence.

Pairing Food with Prosecco Wine

To elevate your dining experience while enjoying what is prosecco wine from Italy's Veneto region made from Glera grapes using the tank method for fermentation that produces carbon dioxide resulting in its signature bubbly texture and sparkly finish; there are several ways to pair it with different cuisines. Opt for dishes with complementary flavors such as pear and melon entrees or light seafood appetizers. The high acidity level in Prosecco wine complements acidic foods such as tomatoes and citrus fruits perfectly elevating their natural tartness. On the other hand creamy cheesy dishes get beautifully balanced out by Prosecco's effervescence which cuts through fat providing delightful sips every time.

List of The Best High-Quality Prosecco

While tastes and preferences may vary, here is a list of well-regarded Prosecco brands known for their quality and popularity:

1. Mionetto
2. Bisol
3. Valdo
4. La Marca
5. Villa Sandi
6. Ruggeri
7. Zonin
8. Adami
9. Bottega
10. Santa Margherita

Please note that this list is not exhaustive, and there are many other excellent Prosecco wine brands available in the market. What is Prosecco? It's a question that sparks curiosity and invites exploration. As you continue your journey through the world of what is Prosecco, it's always recommended to explore and try different brands to find the one that suits your personal taste preferences.

Conclusion

In conclusion, Prosecco is a sparkling wine that has captured the hearts of wine enthusiasts worldwide. Known for its fruity flavor profile, refreshing taste, and affordability, it has become a beloved choice for celebrations, gatherings, or simply enjoying a glass on a sunny day. Throughout this blog, we have delved into what is Prosecco, explored its production process, and provided tips on serving and enjoying this delightful wine. Whether you're new to Prosecco wine or a seasoned enthusiast, we hope this guide has shed light on the wonderful world of Prosecco wine and sparked your curiosity to further explore its diverse range of styles. So, raise your glass and toast to the pleasure of what is Prosecco.