Prosecco is a sparkling wine from the Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia regions of Italy, and it comes in several different styles. Here’s a quick rundown:
Prosecco DOC
This is the most common type and comes from a broader geographical area. It’s generally fresh and light, with flavors of green apple, honeysuckle, and pear. It’s usually made in a dry or extra dry style, which refers to the level of sweetness.
Prosecco DOCG
This is a higher quality designation, indicating that the grapes come from a more specific and controlled region within Veneto or Friuli Venezia Giulia. The most prestigious DOCG area is Conegliano Valdobbiadene, known for producing Proseccos with a bit more complexity and depth.
Prosecco Superiore DOCG
A step up from the DOCG category, this Prosecco comes from the very best vineyards in the Conegliano Valdobbiadene area. It’s typically more refined and complex, often with a more pronounced bouquet and a slightly creamier texture.
Prosecco Frizzante
This is a lightly sparkling version of Prosecco. It has a lower level of carbonation compared to the more common Spumante style. It’s a bit gentler on the bubbles and can be a good option if you prefer a softer, less fizzy wine.
Prosecco Spumante
This is the fully sparkling style of Prosecco, with a higher level of carbonation. It’s the most popular type and what most people think of when they imagine Prosecco. It’s vibrant and refreshing, with plenty of bubbles to enhance its crisp, fruity flavors.
Prosecco Rosé
Introduced more recently, Prosecco Rosé blends traditional Prosecco with a small amount of Pinot Noir. It has a lovely pink hue and can offer a slightly different flavor profile, including notes of red berries and a bit more structure compared to the traditional Prosecco.
Each type of Prosecco has its own unique characteristics and can be enjoyed in different contexts, from casual gatherings to more formal occasions.