Some say that no other drink defines the Italian philosophy of "La dolce vita" quite like Prosecco. It's now the best-selling sparkling wine in the US and Europe – and for good reason: it's refreshing, flavorful and very well priced. But that's not all, here are other elementary reasons you need to know about this iconic product:
It can only be produced in certain areas of Italy.
Prosecco is produced exclusively in certain parts of northeastern Italy. While Prosecco DOC can be grown in 9 provinces in the Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia regions, Prosecco Conegliano Valdobbiadene Superiore DOCG can only be made in the Treviso province of Veneto, in the hills between the towns of the same names. And Asolo Prosecco DOCG Superiore – also known as Colli Asolani Prosecco Superiore DOCG – is also produced in Treviso, between the towns of Cornuda and Asolo.
The difference between Prosecco DOC and Superiore DOCG.
Wines produced under DOCG regulations are the most strictly controlled in Italy. DOCGs are generally considered the most prestigious wines in the country, and this is also true for Prosecco. The DOCG Prosecco Conegliano Valdobbiadene Superiore area has long been appreciated for the quality of its grapes.
Here, as in the lesser-known and smaller Asolo DOCG, grapes are grown exclusively in hillside vineyards, where yields are naturally lower than dryland grapes. On the other hand, Prosecco DOC is grown over a much larger area, and grape cultivation is not limited to the hills, but can be almost anywhere in the growing area. The more flexible rules for Prosecco DOC allow for much higher grape yields compared to Prosecco DOCGs.
The most famous Prosecco vineyard.
The most famous wine-growing area for Prosecco is Cartizze, in the commune of Valdobbiadene. Cartizze Prosecco Superiore DOCG generally has more complexity and depth of flavor than most other Proseccos.
"Prosecco" is no longer the name of the grape.
In 2009, to stop imitators around the world from using the name Prosecco, Italy regulated and protected the name Prosecco under its DOC and DOCG regulations. As part of its efforts, the Italian government also officially changed the name of the grape from Prosecco to Glera.
Glera must be at least 85% Prosecco. Other grapes commonly added to Glera include the native varieties Verdiso, Bianchetta Trevigiana, Perera, Glera Lunga and the international grapes Chardonnay, Pinot Bianco and Pinot Grigio.
It's not always frothy, bubbly.
While the iconic Prosecco is sparkling, both the DOC and DOCG versions can be made in sparkling, semi-sparkling and even still versions.
It's sparkling wine, not champagne.
Not only does Champagne come from different grapes and exclusively from the Champagne region of France, but to get its bubbles, Champagne must be made by re-fermenting the wine in the bottle, known as the méthode Champenoise (classical method in Italian). Prosecco, on the other hand, is made by re-fermenting the wine in steel tanks, a method known as the Charmat method (also called the Italian method).
How to drink Prosecco?
If you are wondering when and how to drink Prosecco, the answer is simple: you can drink it every day. Prosecco should be enjoyed young and fresh. It is perfect for all occasions and is ideal for every day.
It is a very versatile wine and is excellent to be enjoyed during a lunch or dinner with friends. The bubbles make it easy to drink, while the crisp flavors are perfect with a variety of foods.
Serving temperature
Prosecco should be served chilled between 6 and 8 degrees. To reach this temperature it can be placed in an ice bucket or refrigerated for a few hours before serving.
What glasses are used for Prosecco
Prosecco is usually served before the meal, well chilled, in tall glasses - flutes, which keep the optimal temperature longer and enhance the perlage.
What foods does it go with
Prosecco goes well with seafood, salty cheeses, charcuterie and fruit. You can also try it with different sweet or savory appetizers. Prosecco is also delicious with Asian dishes such as Thai noodles or sushi.
How to store bottles of Prosecco
Bottles should be kept horizontally and stored in a cool, dry place at a constant temperature and away from heat and light - between 12 and 14 degrees.
Store bottles on their side in a horizontal position. Keep them away from light, either artificial or natural, and away from any heat source. Do not store Prosecco in the fridge or freezer. Both are too cold and risk spoiling the wine.