With 12,312 grape growers, 1,189 wine makers and 360 sparkling houses in the Prosecco DOC regions – between the Dolomites and the Adriatic coast - the UK’s favourite sparkling wine has far more range and complexity than some might assume. Prosecco DOC and Prosecco DOC Rosé are both available, with typologies ranging from Dry (the sweetest) to Brut Nature (the driest). Indeed, Prosecco DOC winemakers are producing some outstanding wines that need our proper attention.
Prosecco DOC is made using at least 85% of the Glera grape, a variety indigenous to north-eastern Italy.
Prosecco DOC offers lovely apple, peach, pear and white flower notes with a hint of citrus. Whereas Prosecco DOC Rosé is a combination of Glera and Pinot Nero grapes (between 10% and 15%) which are vinified red and give an added hint of raspberry to the wine’s floral, fruity and citrus notes. Wines have been produced in the regions for 2,000 years, but modern wineries in the area are choosing sustainable production techniques that meet every demand, from biodynamic and organic to vegan.
Both Prosecco DOC Rosé and Prosecco DOC are produced using the Martinotti/Charmat fermentation method, that occurs in large stainless steel pressurised tanks, with controlled pressure and temperature levels for the second natural fermentation, to preserve the freshness and aroma of the grapes and the persistent bubbles.
As well as providing the perfect terrain for delicious and accessible wines, the Prosecco DOC Dreamland in the North-East of Italy is the most fabulous destination to visit, offering stylish cities including Venice and Treviso, Padova and Trieste, the foothills of the Dolomite mountains, gorgeous lakes and lush countryside.
Dine out with Prosecco DOC
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In the UK we so often drink Prosecco DOC on its own, but traditionally in Italy, it’s drunk alongside food. There are so many ways to enjoy a glass of Prosecco when dining out with friends, especially as we love to drink it all year round. A glass of Prosecco will pair with any part of your meal, it’s just about choosing the right glass for your dish.
As a general suggestion, Extra Brut or Brut wines work well with savoury dishes and Dry or Extra Dry match best with sweet, but again, it’s all about preference.
The bubbles of Prosecco lend themselves perfectly to food. Excellent with creamy risotto with pink prawns or spicy and aromatic dishes as well. You may even choose a glass of Prosecco DOC when eating fish and chips or pizza. We are starting to see some more bone dry Extra Brut styles coming into the UK, bone dry styles which are great to cut through spicy foods and batters whilst still getting the Prosecco freshness coming through.
Six pm is aperitivo time in Italy. It’s a time to stop what you’re doing, enjoy a glass of Prosecco alongside some quick, easy and delicious nibbles. Some gorgeous chunks of cheese perhaps, olives, crackers or even sushi! Your options are endless.
And let’s not forget cocktails. Prosecco DOC is perfect for cocktails whether you’re in the mood for a fruity Bellini, or a more complex Negroni topped with Prosecco. All the typologies work beautifully in cocktails, the variety and versatility are immense.
Prosecco parties and events
Prosecco DOC is the perfect drink for gatherings and events, whatever the scale. It’s an accessible luxury that makes every occasion feel like a party, and it has such wide appeal that everyone will be happy.
Supremely versatile, Prosecco DOC is delicious poured straight from the chilled bottle at drinks parties with canapes. It’s a great pairing partner at a more formal dinner, and at a cocktail party, Prosecco DOC comes into its own as the basis for some of the most popular cocktails in the world.
For those with a creative bent, you can develop your own unique cocktails with Prosecco DOC designed specifically for the event.
Prosecco at home
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When choosing Prosecco to enjoy at home look for the government seal on the neck of the bottle. It is a sign of provenance, authenticity and traceability. Any good local wine store or grocery retailer will have excellent choices and there’s a dazzling array that you can buy online.
A platter of wonderful Italian meats and cheeses makes for effortless entertainment, made all the more special as you crack open a bottle of Prosecco DOC.
To perfect the experience, make sure the bottle is nicely chilled before serving, and the right tulip shaped glasses really do complete the experience.
Salute!
Know somebody who loves Prosecco DOC? They might like one of these Prosecco gifts.
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