Prosecco is a renowned sparkling wine that holds a special place in the world of winemaking. As a wine enthusiast, you are likely to be familiar with this delightful bubbly sparkling wine from Italy. Let us discuss the fascinating world of Prosecco and discover what makes this effervescent wine so unique.
Understanding Prosecco
Originating from the Prosecco region in Northeastern Italy, Prosecco primarily uses Glera grapes. Unlike its cousin Champagne, which uses Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier. While Champagne undergoes secondary fermentation in the bottle, Prosecco's bubbles are created through the Charmat method. This involves fermenting the wine in steel tanks, keeping it under pressure to maintain its signature fizz. The result is a wine that is not only refreshing and light but also exhibits a delightful fruitiness.
Prosecco Vs Champagne
Prosecco and Champagne are both sparkling wines, yet they have distinct differences. Champagne, from the Champagne region in France, is produced using the traditional "méthode champenoise". This method involves a secondary bottle fermentation, which gives Champagne its complexity and depth. Prosecco, however, has no aging on the lees in the bottle. Its secondary fermentation occurs in large tanks. This results in Prosecco having a fresher, more fruit-forward profile compared to the toastier, more complex flavors of Champagne.
Champagne and Prosecco: Key Differences
The nuances between Prosecco and Champagne extend beyond their origins. These sparkling wines differ in production methods, grape varieties, and taste profiles. Prosecco is known for its light, frothy bubbles, with flavors ranging from apple and pear to honeysuckle. It comes in various sweetness levels, from Brut (dry) to Dolce (sweet). Champagne, on the other hand, usually features finer bubbles and a richer taste profile, including notes of citrus, almond, and brioche.
The Flavor Profile of Prosecco
Prosecco is revered for its bright and lively taste. Depending on the sweetness level, its flavor profile can vary significantly. Dry (or Brut) Prosecco is crisp and floral, with green apple flavor and aromas, while sweeter versions of Prosecco highlight a lush fruitiness. This sparkling wine's refreshing acidity and light body make it a fantastic choice for several occasions.
Keeping Prosecco Fresh with Coravin Sparkling
Maintaining the freshness of Prosecco is crucial for enjoying its full flavor. The Coravin Sparkling® device provides an innovative solution to preserve the effervescence and taste of Prosecco (Champagne, Cava, or Sparkling Wine) after opening. This device seals the bottle and maintains pressure. And the Sparkling® charger ensures that each glass of Prosecco retains its sparkling characteristics, even up to 4 weeks later, by replenishing the bottle with CO2 gas. It is an essential tool for those who want to savor their Prosecco over multiple occasions.