Party-favourite Prosecco continues to be one of the nation’s most loved sparkling wines. In fact, we Brits are responsible for importing over a third of all Prosecco shipped globally – more than 100 million bottles a year!
National Prosecco Day on August 13th is the perfect excuse to pop open a bottle (or two) of your favourite bubbly. Whether you're planning a sunny afternoon in the garden, a weekend festival or just toasting to the Italian favourite, we’ve rounded up our top seven bottles – and a few facts to impress your guests with!
Party-favourite Prosecco continues to be one of the nation’s most loved sparkling wines. In fact, we Brits are responsible for importing over a third of all Prosecco shipped globally – more than 100 million bottles a year!
With its light, fresh and fruity character, it’s easy to see why Italy’s signature sparkling wine is so popular. To help you find your favourite, we've compiled eight must-know facts followed by seven must-try bottles we're sure you’ll love.
Eight facts about Prosecco:
It's produced in Northeast Italy: The enormous Prosecco region encompasses nine provinces across the Veneto and Friuli-Venezia Giulia regions in Italy’s north-eastern corner. Here, the best wines are made on the hillside vineyards north of Trento.
The best Prosecco comes from the sub-region of Valdobbiadene: The town of Valdobbiadene is surrounded by hilly vineyards renowned for producing some of the most delicious and sought-after Prosecco. Strict regulations ensure the wine is of the highest quality.
The primary grape used in making Prosecco is Glera: This ancient grape variety has been cultivated in the region for hundreds of years and is known for its fruity and aromatic qualities. Prosecco was the original name for the grape – it was changed to Glera as part of a push to help protect the region and avoid imitation. Glera must make up at least 85% of the blend, with local indigenous grape varieties permitted for the rest.
It’s made using the Charmat Method: Unlike Champagne, which undergoes secondary fermentation in the bottle called Traditional Method, Prosecco is typically made using the Charmat method. This involves secondary fermentation in large stainless steel tanks, which helps preserve the fresh and fruity character of the wine.
While Prosecco has been produced for centuries, Rosé Prosecco has only existed since 2020: Pink sparkling wine is nothing new for the Prosecco region but it’s only recently that it’s been allowed to be called Rosé Prosecco. It’s made under strict rules that govern production methods, grape varieties and more.
Prosecco comes in two main quality levels: DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) and the top tier DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita). DOCG Proseccos, like those from Conegliano Valdobbiadene, are produced under stricter regulations to ensure superior quality.
It’s mainly produced in three sweetness levels: Brut, Extra Dry and Dry are all terms you’ll see on Prosecco bottles. Confusingly, Brut contains the least amount of residual sugar, and dry has the most. So if you’re looking for a ‘dry’ Prosecco, don’t go for Dry on the label!
Prosecco is the base for Italy’s most-loved cocktails: Prosecco's light flavour and delicate fizz make it an ideal candidate for imaginative mixing. Complimenting the bitter, citrus flavours of Aperol or Limoncello for the perfect summer spritz, it’s a stalwart in every bar and restaurant in Italy.
Our seven must-try Proseccos
Winner of The Drinks Business Prosecco Masters 2021 – proof that Bottega are not aiming for style over substance. Floral, fruity and citrusy aromas, with a touch of spice on the fresh finish.
Up until 2020, producers weren't allowed to label rosé fizz as Prosecco, but labelling laws have finally changed. This has charming floral aromas with fruity flavours of redcurrant and raspberry.
Pasqua 'Romeo & Juliet' Prosecco DOC Brut, Treviso
A tribute to the lovers who flock to ‘Juliet’s house’ – Verona's popular tourist attraction. The label shows the messages they write on her walls. Light, aromatic, fruity fizz.
Chosen by Majestic Prosecco DOC
This Prosecco hails from a family winery with the youngest owners in the esteemed area of Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore. It’s where some of the best Prosecco is made – and this is no different. Designed to be fresh, fruity and extremely easy drinking, it’s fully vegan and the ideal bottle to open at parties.
La Marca 'Extra Dry' Prosecco, Conegliano Valdobbiadene DOCG
Consider the Valdobbiadene DOCG to be the 'Grand Cru' of Processo. It’s fresh and fruity with a creamy, soft mousse.
La Gioiosa Prosecco Valdobbiadene DOCG
With a name translating to ‘joy’ you know it’s going to be good. Expect extra fine bubbles and an elegant flavour profile. This Prosecco is perfect for toasting on a warm summer day.
Maschio Rosé Spumante Extra Dry Millesimato Prosecco DOC
Full and harmonious but perfectly balanced between the freshness of Glera and the body of Pinot Noir fermented on the skins.
Or, why not try your hand at an Italian aperitivo with our Prosecco Party Cocktail Kit. It’s got everything you need to craft a range of delicious Prosecco cocktails – ideal for a party, an evening event or a casual get-together with friends. Just add 25ml of your chosen liqueur to a flute, top up with Prosecco, and enjoy.
Saluti!
