Buy Prosecco: everything you need to know about the Italian sparkling wine gem at Ritschard Weine
Prosecco's origin and history
Prosecco comes from north-eastern Italy, more precisely from the regions of Veneto and Friuli-Venezia Giulia. The historical heart of Prosecco lies in the hills around the city of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene in the province of Treviso. This area enjoys a mild climate and offers ideal conditions for viticulture. The soils are rich in minerals and limestone, which gives Prosecco its characteristic freshness. Prosecco is often enjoyed as an aperitif because of its refreshing qualities.
The history of Prosecco goes back a long way, but its modern success story began in the 19th century. At that time, the Glera grape variety, which is now used almost exclusively to make Prosecco, was cultivated in this region. The name ‘Prosecco’ originally comes from a small village near Trieste, which is now in Slovenia. This is where the wine was first documented before it was introduced to the northern Italian regions.
Since then, Prosecco has continued to develop. In the 1960s, the Veneto region introduced the DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) system to protect the quality and origin of Prosecco. In 2009, Prosecco DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) was introduced, the highest classification for Italian wine, which guarantees strict quality controls and production standards.
Today, Prosecco comes in two categories: Prosecco DOC, which is produced in the larger production areas of Veneto and Friuli, and Prosecco DOCG, which comes from the traditional core areas of Conegliano-Valdobbiadene and Asolo.
What is Prosecco?
Prosecco is an Italian sparkling wine made from grapes grown mainly in the Veneto region of northern Italy. Prosecco is a protected designation of origin that can only be used if the quality criteria of DOC are met, vintage after vintage. The conditions for the cultivation and production area, the production and the grape variety are regulated. Prosecco is often served as an aperitif at various celebrations and special occasions.
Prosecco – the Italian sparkling wine
Prosecco is an Italian sparkling wine that comes from the picturesque region of Veneto. This popular wine is an integral part of many celebrations and special occasions. Made from the Glera grape, Prosecco is characterised by its sparkling freshness and fruity aromas. It is available in a range of different levels of dryness, including brut, extra dry and dry, making it a versatile companion for a wide range of tastes. Whether as an aperitif or to accompany a festive meal, Prosecco always brings a touch of Italian charm to your glass.
The grape varieties of Prosecco
The main grape variety used to make Prosecco is the Glera grape, which used to be known as the Prosecco grape. This white grape variety is known for its fruity aromas and high acidity, which give Prosecco its freshness. Glera accounts for at least 85% of the blend, while the remaining 15% may consist of other indigenous or international grape varieties such as Verdiso, Bianchetta Trevigiana, Perera, Glera Lunga, Chardonnay, Pinot Bianco and Pinot Grigio.
Glera is a high-yielding grape variety that thrives particularly well in the hilly vineyards of Veneto and Friuli. The grapes have large, loose bunches with thin skins, ensuring good ripening and corresponding results. The flavours of the Glera grape range from green apples and pears to citrus fruits and white flowers, which is what makes Prosecco so refreshing and accessible. The fresh and fruity characteristics of Prosecco make it an ideal aperitif.
The secondary varieties that may be used in Prosecco bring additional complexity and structure to the wine. Verdiso, an old grape variety from Veneto, gives Prosecco, for example, a pleasant acidity and a fresh, grassy note. Chardonnay and Pinot Bianco contribute to the fullness and creaminess of the wine, while Pinot Grigio often adds additional fruit flavours and a finer texture.
Special features of Prosecco
Prosecco has many special features that distinguish it from other sparkling wines. One of these is its versatility. Prosecco is available in different levels of sweetness, from brut (dry) to demi-sec (semi-dry), making it a suitable drink for a wide range of occasions. This versatility also makes Prosecco a popular choice as an aperitif.
Another distinguishing feature is the designation of origin. Prosecco DOC and Prosecco DOCG are protected designations of origin that guarantee that the wine has been produced according to strict rules in a specific geographical area. Prosecco DOCG is the highest quality category, comprising only wines from the traditional growing areas of Conegliano-Valdobbiadene and Asolo. These wines are characterised by their particular delicacy and elegance.
Another special feature of Prosecco is its suitability for cellaring. While most sparkling wines should be consumed relatively quickly, high-quality Prosecco DOCG, especially from the vintages, can be stored for several years without losing any of its quality. In the process, additional, complex aromas often develop, making the Prosecco even more interesting.
Prosecco production and qualities
The production process of Prosecco
The secret of Prosecco lies not only in its origin, but also in its production process. Prosecco is mainly produced using the so-called Charmat method (or Metodo Martinotti), which differs from the classic bottle fermentation (as with champagne). In the Charmat method, the second fermentation, which is responsible for the formation of carbon dioxide, takes place in large stainless steel pressure tanks and not in the bottle.
The process begins with the harvest of the Glera grapes, which usually takes place at the end of September. After pressing, the must is converted into wine through a first fermentation. For the second fermentation, the wine is placed in pressurised tanks, where sugar and yeast are added. This process takes about 20 to 30 days. The resulting carbonic acid remains dissolved in the wine, giving the Prosecco its sparkling lightness. After the second fermentation, the Prosecco is filtered to remove the yeast and bottled. One advantage of the Charmat method is that it preserves the fruity aromas and freshness of the Glera grape better than the bottle fermentation. Prosecco therefore retains its characteristic lightness and fresh, fruity taste, making it an ideal aperitif.
In addition, this process is cheaper and faster than the traditional method, making Prosecco an affordable pleasure.
Every Prosecco sparkling wine, sparkling wine or still wine is a quality wine. It bears the designations:
- DOC (Denominazione di origine controllata), or
- the even higher DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) or
- the new DOP (Denominazione d'Origine Protetta).
Serving temperature and tips
To enjoy the full flavour, we recommend serving Prosecco Spumante at a temperature of 6-8°C and Prosecco Frizzante at 8-10°C. Prosecco is typically served in a tulip glass as an aperitif. Due to its refreshing properties, Prosecco is often served as an aperitif.
Light and spicy-savoury dishes such as Asian and Thai dishes, cured white meat, Parma ham, melon, asparagus, seafood and sushi go well with Prosecco. Prosecco can also be used in cocktails such as Bellini, Aperol Spritz, Hugo and Elderflower Gin Fizz.
Prosecco and food: the perfect combination
Prosecco is not only an excellent aperitif, but also a versatile companion to food. Thanks to its light, fruity character, it goes well with a variety of dishes, from appetisers to desserts. Its versatility makes it an excellent aperitif for a range of dishes.
As an aperitif, a dry Prosecco, such as a Prosecco DOCG Extra Dry, is ideal because its fresh aromas of green apples and citrus fruits refresh the palate and whet the appetite. It goes extremely well with light snacks such as crostini with salmon or prosciutto.
For starters such as antipasti or seafood, we recommend a Prosecco Brut, which, with its dry, mineral character, highlights the flavours of the food without covering them up. A Prosecco DOC Brut from the Conegliano-Valdobbiadene region goes particularly well with fish carpaccio or a light lemon pasta.
For main courses such as grilled fish, white meat or vegetarian dishes, a Prosecco DOCG Extra Dry from Asolo is an excellent choice. The slightly higher residual sweetness of this wine brings out the flavours of the food and ensures a harmonious balance.
Prosecco is also a wonderful accompaniment to desserts. A Demi-Sec Prosecco, which is slightly sweeter, goes extremely well with fruity desserts such as fruit salad or a lemon tart. A particularly successful way to round off a meal is to combine Prosecco and tiramisu – the light, sparkling wine perfectly balances the creamy sweetness of the dessert.
The difference between Prosecco and sparkling wine, Sekt and Champagne
Although Prosecco is often referred to as a sparkling wine, there are some important differences between Prosecco, Sekt and Champagne. These differences lie in the origin, the grape varieties used and the production process. Prosecco's light and refreshing nature also makes it a popular aperitif.
Origin: Prosecco comes exclusively from Italy, more precisely from the regions of Veneto and Friuli-Venezia Giulia. Sparkling wines such as Sekt, on the other hand, can be produced in various countries, with German Sekt being produced in Germany. Champagne, on the other hand, may only be produced in the French Champagne region and is subject to strict production regulations.
Grape varieties: Prosecco is mainly made from the Glera grape, while a blend of different grape varieties is used for champagne and sparkling wine. Champagne is usually based on the grape varieties Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. Sekt can consist of a variety of grape varieties, including Riesling, which is very popular in Germany.
Production process: The biggest difference between Prosecco, Sekt and Champagne lies in the production process. Prosecco is mainly produced using the Charmat method, in which the second fermentation takes place in pressurised tanks. Champagne, on the other hand, is produced using the traditional method (Méthode Champenoise), in which the second fermentation takes place in the bottle. This process is more elaborate and results in a finer perlage and more complex aromas. Sparkling wine can be produced using either method, although sparkling wine made using the traditional method is of a higher quality.
These differences also explain the different price categories. While Prosecco is often cheaper, Champagnes are more expensive due to the more elaborate production process and the stricter production specifications.
Prosecco as a type of sparkling wine
Prosecco is a sparkling wine made from grapes grown mainly in the Veneto region of northern Italy. Prosecco is a protected designation of origin. This means that only wines that meet the DOC quality criteria can be called Prosecco. The conditions for the cultivation and production area, as well as for the production and grape variety, are regulated. Prosecco is often chosen as an aperitif because it is light and refreshing.
Very high-quality Prosecchi Spumante from a DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) come from the home of Prosecco around Conegliano and Valdobbiadene in the hinterland of Venice. They all foam and tingle, but the Prosecco Frizzante has rather coarse bubbles and often the bubbles quickly dissipate due to the low carbon dioxide content, and the sparkling wine (Prosecco Frizzante) then tastes stale instead of fruity and tangy.
This is different from the aged version, Prosecco Spumante, which is clearly the more popular and favoured version in Switzerland. Prosecco is usually produced by tank fermentation, a process that is less elaborate than the bottle fermentation traditionally used for champagne or cava, for example.
Buy Prosecco online
The Ritschard Weine online shop offers a wide selection of high-quality Prosecco for every occasion. Whether you are looking for a classic Prosecco Spumante or a gently sparkling Prosecco Frizzante, you will find the right offer here. Ritschard Weine places a high value on the quality of its products and guarantees that each Prosecco is carefully selected. Prosecco is also a popular choice as an aperitif for various occasions.
Thanks to fast delivery, you can enjoy your favourite prosecco in no time. In addition, you benefit from regular special offers and promotions that make the shopping experience even more attractive. Order your prosecco conveniently online and look forward to excellent enjoyment delivered directly to your home.
Our Prosecco Wines
Our Prosecco wines at Ritschard Wines are of the highest quality and come from the renowned Prosecco region in north-eastern Italy. These wines delight with their finely balanced fruitiness and pleasant acidity, which ensures a refreshing taste experience. Whether as an aperitif, with a delicious meal or just to toast – our Prosecco wines are perfect for any occasion. Discover the variety and enjoyment that our carefully selected Proseccos offer.
Frequently asked questions about Prosecco sparkling wine
What exactly is Prosecco?
It owes its name to the village of the same name near Trieste. Prosecco is made from the native Glera grape variety and is mainly offered as a sparkling wine under the name Prosecco Spumante. The less common Prosecco Frizzante is a semi-sparkling wine with only a light sparkle.
What is the difference between Prosecco and sparkling wine?
A frequently asked question is: what is the difference between sparkling wine and Prosecco? In short, sparkling wine is a carbonated drink made from wine that foams up a lot when opened. Prosecco, on the other hand, is a wine-based drink with a protected designation of origin in Italy.
Is Prosecco stronger than sparkling wine?
Prosecco must have at least 10.5% alcohol for Frizzante and at least 11% for Spumante. Sekt, on the other hand, has a minimum alcohol content of 10%, although most Sekts are usually between 11 and 12%.
How do you drink Prosecco?
Prosecco is best enjoyed at a temperature between 6 and 8 degrees. To do this, you can chill the bottle in the refrigerator for a few hours, but you shouldn't leave it there for too long. Alternatively, you can bring the Prosecco to the right temperature in a champagne cooler with a mixture of cold water and ice cubes.
Which glass should you use to serve Prosecco?
So what is the perfect glass for Prosecco? Contrary to popular belief, neither goblets nor champagne flutes are ideal. The best glass is a stemmed glass with a shape reminiscent of a ‘diamond’. The long stem allows you to hold the glass between your fingers without touching the wine, thus keeping its temperature stable.
How should Prosecco be stored, lying down or standing up?
Prosecco should always be stored in a cool, quiet and dark place, ideally upright rather than lying down. This helps to avoid cork taint and reduces pressure loss. Cellars or special wine fridges are ideal for storage.