Did you just pay Champagne prices for a sparkling wine that tastes like a disappointment in a bottle?
As you land on this page, we are so sure you did.
Introducing Italy’s beloved Prosecco, the Italian sparkling wine that’s affordable and delicious and totally worth exploring (we are not just consoling you, promise).
With its light, refreshing taste and wallet-friendly price tag, Prosecco is the perfect sparkling wine that every bubble-lover must try (at least lovers of Benchmark Wines do <3).
Did you know – In 2021, Italian Prosecco accounted for 43% of the top three categories for extra-EU exports of sparkling wine, with a whopping 273 million liters of sale?
But why is it adored so much?
Let’s know what it actually is…
What is Prosecco?
It’s a delightful sparkling wine that’s made from the Glera grape, which is mostly grown in Italy’s Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia regions. Unlike Champagne, Prosecco goes through a different process called the Charmat method. Instead of the second fermentation taking place in individual bottles, it’s done in large stainless-steel tanks. This process makes the wine lighter, fruitier, and less complex than Champagne, but with its own distinct flavor profile that’s simply delicious.
If you’re a fan of bubbly beverages, you should definitely buy sparkling wine Prosecco!
The Grapes Used in Prosecco
Prosecco is primarily made from the Glera grape, which is indigenous to northeastern Italy. The grape is known for its high acidity, delicate floral and fruity aromas, and low alcohol content, which make it ideal for producing sparkling wine. In addition to the Glera grape, Prosecco can also include up to 15% of other grape varieties, such as Verdiso, Bianchetta Trevigiana, and Perera. These additional grape varieties can contribute to the complexity and depth of the Prosecco’s flavor profile, adding notes of citrus, green apple, and minerality.
Why is Prosecco Worth Exploring?
If you’re a fan of bubbly drinks, you should definitely consider giving this Italian sparkling wine a try. Not only is it a delicious and refreshing option, but it’s also affordable and versatile, making it a great choice for any occasion.
Here are just a few reasons why you should explore the world of Prosecco:
Firstly, the price point is hard to beat. While Champagne can easily run upwards of $50 a bottle, you can snag a great bottle of Prosecco for $20 or less. That’s a significant saving without sacrificing taste!
Secondly, Prosecco is versatile and can be enjoyed in many ways. It’s perfect on its own, but also pairs well with a wide range of foods. And if you’re feeling creative, you can even mix it with some peach puree for a classic Bellini cocktail.
Lastly, Prosecco is known for its lighter, fruitier taste compared to Champagne, making it perfect for warmer weather or more casual gatherings. Whether you’re toasting a special occasion or simply enjoying a night in, Prosecco is a sparkling wine that’s definitely worth exploring.
Tap me to buy sparkling wine?
How is it Different from Champagne?
When it comes to sparkling wines, Prosecco and Champagne are two popular choices. While they both offer a bubbly, celebratory experience, there are a few key differences that set prosecco differently.
Firstly, the grapes used to make the wines are different. Prosecco is made from the Glera grape, while Champagne is made from a blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier grapes. This can lead to variations in flavor and complexity.
Secondly, Prosecco undergoes a quite different production method, i.e., the second fermentation of Prosecco takes place in large stainless-steel tanks using the Charmat method, while Champagne goes through its second fermentation in individual bottles using the traditional method. This difference in production can affect the wine’s texture and taste.
Thirdly, the flavor profile of the two wines can also differ. Prosecco is known for being lighter, fruitier, and less complex than Champagne, often boasting notes of apple, pear, and peach with a subtle sweetness. Champagne, on the other hand, tends to be more complex, with a yeasty, toasty flavor profile and notes of citrus, red fruit, and brioche.
Lastly, Champagne is typically much more expensive than Prosecco, which can be attributed to its traditional production method, longer aging time, and higher demand.
While Prosecco and Champagne have their differences, both are delicious in their own right and can be enjoyed for different occasions and preferences.
Related – Sparkling Wine: A Guide to Champagne, Prosecco, and More
Prosecco Food Pairing
Aperitif
Prosecco makes for a fantastic aperitif, either served on its own or accompanied by some light snacks. Think olives, nuts, or cheese. The bubbles and refreshing taste of Prosecco make it the perfect way to kick off an evening.
Seafood
The lightness of Prosecco is an excellent match for seafood dishes. Consider pairing it with grilled shrimp, oysters, or sushi. The bubbles in Prosecco can help to cut through the richness of the seafood, providing a balanced and refreshing pairing.
Salads
Prosecco is a great choice for salads, particularly those with light and fresh flavors. Consider pairing Prosecco with a salad of mixed greens, goat cheese, and sliced apples. The acidity of the wine can help to balance out the sweetness of the apples, making for a harmonious pairing.
Pizza
Prosecco might not be the first wine you think of when it comes to pizza, but it’s actually a surprisingly good match. Consider pairing it with a pizza topped with prosciutto, arugula, or mushrooms. The lightness and bubbles of the Prosecco complement the rich and savory flavors of the pizza, making for a delicious pairing.
These are just a few ideas for Prosecco food pairings. The light and fruity nature of Prosecco makes it a versatile wine that can be paired with a variety of dishes.
Where is the Best of Prosecco Made?
The Conegliano Valdobbiadene region in Veneto and the Asolo Prosecco Superiore region, also located in Veneto, are considered the best areas for producing Prosecco. The steep hills and cool climate in these regions provide ideal growing conditions for the Glera grape, resulting in high-quality Prosecco with a complex flavor profile. These regions also have strict regulations for the production of Prosecco, ensuring that only the highest quality wines are labeled as Prosecco DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita).
Related – Keeping Up with the Recent Trends in Italian Wine Industry
Why Is Prosecco So Affordable?
The Charmat method used to produce Prosecco is a more cost-effective process because it involves a second fermentation of the wine in large stainless-steel tanks, instead of individual bottles, which reduces the production time and cost.
In contrast, Champagne is produced using the traditional method, which involves a second fermentation of the wine in the bottle, a longer aging period, and more labor-intensive production, making it a more expensive sparkling wine.
Which Prosecco Should I Buy?
Look for the Prosecco Superiore label
Prosecco Superiore is a label that designates a specific category of high-quality Prosecco wines. To receive the Prosecco Superiore label, the wine must meet certain strict criteria in terms of grape variety, origin, and production method.
The grapes used to produce Prosecco Superiore must come from specific areas in northeastern Italy, namely the Conegliano Valdobbiadene and Asolo regions. These areas are recognized for their unique terroir, which contributes to the exceptional quality of the grapes grown there. The soil, climate, and altitude of these regions all play a role in shaping the flavor profile of the grapes.
In addition to using high-quality grapes, Prosecco Superiore wines must also be produced using specific methods. For example, the wine must be fermented using the Charmat method, which involves a secondary fermentation in stainless steel tanks rather than individual bottles. This method preserves the fresh and fruity character of the wine and helps to produce a clean and elegant final product.
All these factors make Prosecco Superiore label a significant choice for Prosecco lovers.
Consider the Sweetness Level
Prosecco can be produced in different sweetness levels, which are determined by the amount of residual sugar left in the wine after the second fermentation. The sweetness levels are typically indicated on the bottle label and range from driest to sweetest as follows:
Extra Brut: This is the driest style of Prosecco, with less than 6 grams of residual sugar per liter. It has a very crisp and refreshing taste, with high acidity and minimal sweetness.
Brut: This is the most common style of Prosecco, with less than 12 grams of residual sugar per liter. It is still considered a dry wine, but it has a slightly higher sweetness level than extra brut. It has a balance of acidity, fruitiness, and a subtle sweetness that is not overwhelming.
Extra Dry: Despite the name, this style is actually slightly sweeter than brut, with 12-17 grams of residual sugar per liter. It has a delicate sweetness that is still balanced by crisp acidity and citrus notes. It pairs well with salty and savory foods.
Dry: This style has 17-32 grams of residual sugar per liter and is noticeably sweeter than the previous styles. It has a fruitier and rounder flavor, with less acidity. It pairs well with spicier dishes and desserts.
Demi-Sec: This is the sweetest style of Prosecco, with 32-50 grams of residual sugar per liter. It has a more pronounced sweetness and fruitiness, with lower acidity. It pairs well with desserts and can also be enjoyed on its own as a dessert wine.
Check the Vintage
Prosecco is generally meant to be consumed when it is young and fresh. This is because the Charmat method used to produce Prosecco results in a wine that is less complex and has fewer tannins, meaning it does not benefit as much from aging as other wines. In addition, the fruity and floral flavors and aromas that are characteristic of Prosecco tend to dissipate over time.
It is therefore recommended to choose a Prosecco that is no more than a few years old. Most Prosecco bottles have a vintage date, which indicates the year the grapes were harvested. Prosecco is typically made to be consumed within two years of the vintage date, although some higher-end Proseccos may be able to age for a few more years. It is also worth noting that Prosecco is usually produced in large quantities, which means that it is readily available and can be enjoyed year-round without worrying about vintage variation.
Ask for Recommendations
If you’re new to the world of Prosecco or you’re unsure about which bottle to choose, don’t hesitate to seek recommendations from a wine expert or your local wine shop Singapore. These professionals can provide valuable insight into the different Prosecco varieties and help you find a bottle that suits your tastes and preferences. They may ask about your budget, preferred sweetness level, and food pairing options to suggest a bottle that meets your needs. Additionally, they may be able to provide information about specific producers or vineyards, as well as offer tasting notes or ratings from reputable sources to help you make an informed decision. By seeking out expert recommendations, you can feel more confident in your Prosecco selection and discover new and exciting bottles to try.
Ciao!
Prosecco is a great option for those who love sparkling wine but are looking for a more affordable and versatile option. Its unique flavor profile and lighter body make it a refreshing choice for warm weather or casual occasions, and its popularity is only increasing worldwide. Whether you’re celebrating a special occasion or just enjoying a casual evening at home, Prosecco is definitely worth exploring.
You can buy sparkling wine Prosecco from Benchmark Wines, a very popular wine shop Singapore that is a go-to destination for premium Italian sparkling wines. From classic Proseccos to unique varietals and limited editions, our collection has something for everyone to fulfill the needs of sparkling wine Singapore.
Cheers to being classy on a budget!