PROSECCO
Italy’s Sparkling Signature
Prosecco is Italy’s beloved sparkling wine, known for its light, fresh character and approachable charm. Produced primarily in the Veneto and Friuli-Venezia Giulia regions, it offers a delightful alternative to more complex sparkling wines, making it a favorite for both casual sipping and festive occasions.
Key Characteristics
Prosecco is typically light-bodied with vibrant acidity and delicate bubbles. Its flavor profile includes notes of green apple, pear, melon, and white flowers, often with a hint of sweetness.
Style
Sparkling (Spumante), Semi-sparkling (Frizzante), Still (Tranquillo)
Body
Light
Acidity
Medium to high
Primary Grape
Glera (minimum 85%)
Typical Flavors
Green apple, pear, white peach, honeydew, citrus, acacia
Origin & History
Named after the village of Prosecco in northeastern Italy, this wine's history dates back centuries. The Glera grape, formerly known as Prosecco, has been cultivated in the region for generations. In 2009, Prosecco received DOC status, and the superior DOCG designation was granted to the Conegliano Valdobbiadene and Asolo regions, recognizing their exceptional quality and traditional production methods.
How It’s Made
Prosecco is produced using the Charmat method (also known as the tank method), where the secondary fermentation occurs in stainless steel tanks rather than individual bottles. This process preserves the wine's fresh and fruity characteristics, resulting in a more affordable and approachable sparkling wine compared to those made with the traditional method.
Notable Regions
Prosecco is crafted across several distinct appellations, each offering its own character and quality level.
Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG
The heartland of Prosecco production, known for its high-quality wines and picturesque vineyards.
Asolo Prosecco Superiore DOCG
A smaller, yet esteemed area producing elegant and refined Proseccos.
Prosecco DOC
Encompasses a larger area across Veneto and Friuli-Venezia Giulia, offering a wide range of styles and expressions.
Food Pairings
Prosecco's crisp acidity and subtle sweetness make it a versatile partner for various dishes:
Appetizers
Prosciutto-wrapped melon, bruschetta, light salads
Seafood
Shrimp cocktail, sushi, grilled fish
Cheeses
Fresh mozzarella, burrata, ricotta
Desserts
Fruit tarts, almond biscotti, panna cotta
How to Serve It
Glassware
Tulip-shaped sparkling wine glass to capture aromas and maintain bubbles
Temperature
6–8°C (43–46°F)
Storage
Store upright in a cool, dark place; consume within a year of purchase for optimal freshness
Fun Fact
Prosecco's popularity has soared in recent years, making it one of the most exported Italian wines. Its approachable price point and versatile nature have contributed to its global appeal, often being the base for popular cocktails like the Bellini and Aperol Spritz.
Try This If You Like
Cava
Spain
A Spanish sparkling wine made using the traditional method, offering more complexity and a drier profile.
Franciacorta
Italy
A premium Italian sparkling wine from Lombardy, known for its richness and depth.
Crémant
France
French sparkling wines from regions outside Champagne, providing excellent quality at a more accessible price point.
Recommended Producers
These producers reflect the breadth of Prosecco styles, from crisp and casual to refined and terroir-driven.
Bisol / Desiderio Bisol & Figli
One of the most respected names in Valdobbiadene, crafting elegant Proseccos with mineral tension and floral nuance. Their range spans lively everyday bottles to complex DOCG selections like “Crede.”
Franzie & Cratzi
A playful, approachable producer offering Proseccos that are easy to enjoy—ideal for casual sipping, gatherings, or gifting. Known for their bright, fruit-driven style.
Venice Asolo
Representing the smaller, elevated Asolo DOCG region, this producer focuses on structured, dry Prosecco with a distinctive mineral core and a more serious character.
Recommended Pours
Venice Asolo - Prosecco Superiore Brut 2020 — A dry, elegant Prosecco from the hills of Asolo, offering notes of golden apple, white peach, and a touch of almond. Clean and refined with a lingering mineral finish; a great pick for those seeking a more structured sparkling wine.
Bisol - Desiderio Jeio Prosecco Brut NV — A lively Italian sparkling wine known for its crisp acidity and notes of green apple and pear.
Desiderio Bisol & Figli - Brut Prosecco di Valdobbiadene Crede 2022 — A refined DOCG Prosecco with notes of pear, white peach, and wildflowers. Elegant and dry, with fine bubbles and a crisp mineral finish; classic Valdobbiadene finesse.
Franzie & Cratzi, Prosecco NV — Crisp, light, and easygoing with notes of green apple and lemon zest; an ideal everyday sparkler.