Last Updated on March 12, 2024 by Lydia Martin
Regarded as the most famous sparkling wine produced in the region of Veneto, Italy, Prosecco is a widely popular and budget-conscious liquor. Discover what sparked its popularity and what makes this fine bottle of Italian bubbly wine special.
Our team spent almost two days researching the great Prosecco wine and its prices.
Prosecco Wine: An Overview
Prosecco wine is one of the sparkling wines made from Glera or Prosecco grapes.
Prosecco originates from the region of Veneto, Italy, while Champagne comes from Northern France.
Champagne is usually made from three kinds of vine fruit, while Italy’s Prosecco is made from green-skinned Glera grapes.
This Glera grape wine is a Denominazione Di Origine Controllata or DOCG.
If liquor is labeled with these terms, they are considered the best of what Italian wines could offer.
Read: Popular Champagnes For Mimosas
How It’s Made
The process of making Prosecco sparkling wines from the region of Veneto, Italy, differs from the method used in making bottles of Champagne. Instead of doing its second fermentation in a bottle, it’s fermented in tanks with sugar, yeast, and other ingredients.
This method is called Charmat. The best Prosecco bottles don’t need to be fermented for a long time as liquors that go through the Charmat method are meant to be drunk young. But does Champagne really freeze?
Base Ingredients
Italian Prosecco is made with Glera or Prosecco grapes [1]. However, it’s not usually made with 100% Glera from Veneto, Italy. Most Prosecco sparkling wines are made from 85% Glera, which has a higher sugar level than other types of this vine fruit.
The rest of the 15% could be from Pinot Bianco, Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and other kinds from Veneto, Italy, which gives off a crisp taste. Some use sugar to make sweeter variants and provide a specific yeast to create carbon dioxide.
Production & Bottling
After fermenting for the second time in tanks, including the Presa di Spuma or the sparkling method which creates the bubbles, the Italian Prosecco will be bottled. The allowed time of fermentation and transferring to a bottle is important as it helps maintain its quality.
Usually, makers from Veneto, Italy bottle the Prosecco from March to April. The temperature during spring is mild, so it doesn’t hurt the completion of the wine’s sparkling process in a bottle.
Afterward, the bottles are placed in a case to be distributed not just in the region of Veneto, Italy but worldwide. However, they need to be checked first to be labeled DOC or DOCG.
What is the Charmat Method?
Charmat means that the liquor is fermented twice in tanks instead of bottles. This process utilized by the makers in Veneto also includes natural yeast intended for Prosecco making.
Using pressurized steel vats, the winemakers can monitor the pressure, the perfect temperature, and the wine’s organoleptic properties. This usually takes a month up to six months.
But what’s the best Prosecco for an Aperol Spritz?
Terms Used To Describe Prosecco
Valdobbiadene Superiore di Cartizze DOCG
This term is used if a product is made of vine fruit grown on Cartizze hill – a specific region in Veneto, Italy. Prosecco wines from these fruits produce the luxurious sparkles that most people love. Valdobbiadene DOCG is also more expensive compared to others.
Prosecco Conegliano Valdobbiadene Superiore Rive DOCG
This is made from a specific vineyard located on steep slopes in the region of Veneto, Italy. The Italian fruits are picked by hand, and after bottling, it is always marked with a vintage label.
Colli Asolani DOCG
Colli Asolani wines are from fruits grown on the hills in the Northern Central region of Veneto, Italy. Since this wine comes from a smaller location, many enthusiasts find them worth collecting. Those vineyards between Asolo and Cornuda provide some of Italy’s best Proseccos.
Prosecco DOC
Any wine that’s made from Prosecco grapes can be considered Prosecco DOC. Even those that don’t come from a specific region in Veneto, Italy, will have this grade.
The quality is still superb, but not as amazing as previously mentioned terms. Both of them come from some vineyards in the Northeast Region of Veneto, Italy.
Related Posts:
Common Prosecco Prices
|
Type |
Bottle Size | Alcohol Proof | Average Price |
Region |
| Avissi Sparkling Prosecco | 750ml | 23% | Around $14 | Veneto, Italy |
| Bellissima Prosecco Brut | 750ml | 23% | Around $21 | Veneto, Italy |
| Canti Prosecco Spumante | 750ml | 22% | Around $14 | Veneto, Italy |
| Cantine Riondo Prosecco Spago Nero | 750ml | 21% | Around $14 | Veneto, Italy |
| Carpene Malvolti Prosecco di Conegliano- Valdobbiadene DOCG Extra Dry | 750ml | 22% | Around $18 | Veneto, Italy |
| Cavit Lunetta Prosecco Brut | 750ml | 23% | Around $12 | Veneto, Italy |
| Cupcake Vineyards Sparkling Prosecco | 750ml | 22% | Around $11 | Veneto, Italy |
| DiCello Prosecco | 750ml | 22% | Around $17 | Veneto, Italy |
| Enza Prosecco | 750ml | 22% | Around $15 | Veneto, Italy |
| La Marca Prosecco | 750ml | 22% | Around $16 | Veneto, Italy |
| Mionetto Prosecco di Treviso Brut | 750ml | 22% | Around $12 | Veneto, Italy |
| Ruffino Prosecco | 750ml | 22% | Around $14 | Veneto, Italy |
| Santa Margherita Prosecco Frizzante | 750ml | 24% | Around $22 | Veneto, Italy |
| Santero Villa Jolanda Prosecco | 750ml | 23% | Around $12 | Veneto, Italy |
| Stellina di Notte Prosecco Spumante | 750ml | 22% | Around $14 | Veneto, Italy |
| Voveti Prosecco | 750ml | 22% | Around $15 | Veneto, Italy |
| Zonin Cuvee 1821 Prosecco Spumante Brut | 750ml | 22% | Around $12 | Veneto, Italy |
How Expensive is Prosecco Wine?
The common Prosecco cost depends on the region where it’s made and the supply. Some bottles from Veneto, Italy, can come as cheap as about $10, while you can buy some from stores outside of Veneto, Italy, which ranges from around $20 and above.
La Marca Prosecco offers a 375ml bottle for around $10. The Villa Sandi 2015 Cartizze Vigna La Rivetta could be considered one of the most expensive at around $45 for a 750ml bottle because of its exquisite mellowness and fineness.
Read: Moscato vs Prosecco
Prosecco Compared To Champagne
We’ve briefly compared Prosecco and Champagne above. Still, aside from the region and countries where these wines originated (the former from Veneto, Italy, and the latter from a region in France), they also differ in the manufacturing process and the way they taste.
Although both have a light, subtle taste, Champagne’s flavor profile is more citrusy and nutty, while Prosecco has more flowery and fruity notes [2]. Prosecco is also more affordable when compared to Champagne which can be quite expensive.
Popular Prosecco Cocktail Recipes
Pornstar Martini
Ingredients:
- 50ml Prosecco
- 50ml Vodka
- 50ml Passoa
- 50ml passion fruit puree
- 50ml passion fruit juice
- 25ml lime juice
- 15ml vanilla syrup
- 1/2 passion fruit
- Ice
Directions:
Add all ingredients to a cocktail shaker, putting the juices and puree last. Close the lid and shake for about 30 seconds. Pour the cocktail in your glass with the ice going through a Hawthorn strainer. We recommend placing a slice of passion fruit on top and serving it cold.
The Hugo
Ingredients:
- 120ml Prosecco
- 25ml soda water
- 20ml gin
- 20ml elderflower cordial
- 1 lime wedge
- Mint leaves
- Ice
Directions:
Lightly scrunch up some mint leaves to let them bruise. Place the leaves at the bottom of your wine glass. Pour the gin and elderflower cordial to let the mint infuse for not more than 2 minutes. Fill the glass with ice, then pour the Prosecco and soda water. Garnish with the lime wedge.
Aperol Spritz
Ingredients:
- 60ml Prosecco
- 60ml Aperol
- 30ml soda water
- Orange wedge
- Ice
Directions:
Fill your wine glass with ice. Pour all liquid ingredients into the glass and stir with a long spoon. Add the orange wedge to garnish.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs):
Is Prosecco wine sweet or dry?
Prosecco is typically known for its light and crisp profile, leaning towards the dry side. However, the sweetness of Prosecco can vary based on the specific type. Prosecco is categorized into different levels of sweetness: Brut (very dry), Extra Dry (slightly sweet), Dry (off-dry), and Demi-Sec (sweet). So, depending on your preference, you can find a Prosecco that suits your taste, ranging from bone-dry to subtly sweet.
Is Prosecco wine red or white?
Prosecco is a white wine. It is made predominantly from the Glera grape variety, which imparts a light and fruity character to the wine. The winemaking process involves fermentation in stainless steel tanks, preserving the freshness and fruitiness of the grapes and resulting in a sparkling white wine.
How much does Prosecco cost?
The cost of Prosecco can vary widely depending on factors such as brand, quality, and region of production. Generally, Prosecco is considered a more affordable sparkling wine compared to Champagne. Entry-level Proseccos can be found for around $10 to $15 per bottle, while higher-end or premium options may range from $20 to $40 or more.
Is Prosecco an expensive wine?
Prosecco is generally considered an affordable sparkling wine, making it accessible to a broad range of consumers. While there are premium and higher-priced Prosecco options available, the majority of Prosecco falls into the moderate to lower price range, offering a cost-effective alternative to other sparkling wines.
Is Prosecco a cheap drink?
Prosecco is often perceived as an affordable and approachable sparkling wine, making it a popular choice for celebrations and everyday enjoyment. Its price point is generally lower than that of Champagne, making it an attractive option for those seeking a budget-friendly yet enjoyable sparkling wine experience.
Is Prosecco cheaper than Champagne?
Yes, Prosecco is typically more budget-friendly than Champagne. The production methods, grape varieties, and regions of origin contribute to the cost difference. Prosecco is produced using the Charmat method in Italy, primarily from the Glera grape, while Champagne undergoes a more labor-intensive traditional method in the Champagne region of France. As a result, Prosecco is generally more economical, providing a sparkling wine option for those seeking quality at a lower price point.
Is Prosecco a liquor or wine?
Prosecco is a sparkling wine, not a liquor. It originates from the Veneto region of Italy and is made primarily from the Glera grape. The production process involves fermentation in stainless steel tanks, resulting in a light, effervescent wine with varying levels of sweetness.
What is the most expensive Prosecco?
While Prosecco is generally known for its affordability, there are premium and higher-end options available. Some producers create limited-edition or single-vineyard Proseccos that may command higher prices. The exact “most expensive” Prosecco can vary based on availability, rarity, and the producer’s reputation.
Is Prosecco Dry or Sweet?
Prosecco can have varying levels of sweetness, ranging from bone-dry to sweet. The sweetness is categorized based on the residual sugar content. The most common classifications are Brut (very dry), Extra Dry (slightly sweet), Dry (off-dry), and Demi-Sec (sweet). Consumers can choose a Prosecco that aligns with their preferred level of sweetness.
Why is Prosecco so cheap?
Prosecco is often more affordable than other sparkling wines, like Champagne, due to differences in production methods, grape varieties, and regional factors. Prosecco is made using the Charmat method, a more cost-effective and efficient production process than the traditional method used for Champagne. Additionally, the Glera grape, the primary grape in Prosecco, is less expensive to cultivate than the grapes used in Champagne.
Is it OK to drink Prosecco?
Yes, it is absolutely fine to drink Prosecco. It is a popular and widely enjoyed sparkling wine known for its light, refreshing character. Like any alcoholic beverage, moderation is key to responsible consumption. Many people enjoy Prosecco on various occasions, from celebrations to casual gatherings.
Is Prosecco expensive in Italy?
Prosecco is generally more affordable in Italy compared to other countries due to its local production. Being in proximity to the production region can result in lower prices for Italian consumers. However, prices can still vary based on the specific Prosecco brand, quality, and the region where it is purchased.
Is 2 bottles of Prosecco a lot?
The perception of whether two bottles of Prosecco is a lot depends on the context and the number of people involved. For a small gathering or celebration, two bottles might be suitable. However, it’s essential to drink responsibly, considering factors such as alcohol tolerance, the duration of the event, and the number of participants to ensure a safe and enjoyable experience.
Summary of Prosecco Price
While Prosecco originated from the region of Veneto, Italy, its popularity has spread worldwide. Although it might not match the popularity of Champagne in many countries outside of Italy, it’s a great way to enjoy tasty and sparkly alcohol with an affordable price tag.
It’s also a very versatile liquor as you can create delicious cocktails with every bottle of Prosecco. This also goes best with savory food because of its distinct sweetness. Just remember to drink this in accordance with the law and consume it moderately. Cheers!
References:
