How To Drink Prosecco: The Ultimate Guide

Prosecco is a sparkling white wine from Italy’s Veneto region. It is made using the Charmat method, where the secondary fermentation occurs in a pressurized tank instead of the bottle. This results in a lighter, less yeasty wine with fewer bubbles.

Prosecco has similarities to Champagne, but it is typically less expensive and has a lower alcohol content. It is also sweeter than Champagne and often has fruity flavors like peach, apricot, or citrus.

To enjoy a glass of prosecco, start by pouring it into a flute glass. Then, hold the glass by the stem and swirl it around to release the aromas. Next, smell the drink, take a sip and savor the flavor, letting the bubbles tickle your tongue. If you want to add a bit of sweetness, try pairing prosecco with fruit or dessert.

We will dive a bit deeper into how prosecco is made, how to drink prosecco, the different types of prosecco cocktails, and what foods to pair it with.

How Is Prosecco Made

Prosecco is made from the Glera grape, which is native to the Veneto region of Italy. The name “prosecco” comes from Prosecco’s village, where the grape is thought to have originated. Prosecco is made using the Charmat method, which involves secondary fermentation in a pressurized tank instead of the bottle.

The process is quite simple. First, the grapes are crushed, and the juice is extracted. Then, the juice is fermented in a tank for about two weeks. After fermentation, the wine is transferred to a pressurized tank and left to age for a few months. This results in a lighter, less yeasty wine with fewer bubbles.

The Proper Way To Enjoy Prosecco

There are a few things to remember if you want to enjoy your prosecco properly.

1. Pour It Into a Flute Glass

A flute glass is the best way to enjoy prosecco because it allows the bubbles to form and rise to the top. In addition, the glass is shaped in a way that enhances the wine’s aromas.

You don’t want to lose any beautiful bubbles, so be careful when pouring. Tilt the glass and pour slowly down the side to avoid foam.

2. Hold the Glass by the Stem

Another thing to keep in mind is always to hold your glass by the stem. This will help keep the wine chilled and prevent your body heat from affecting the temperature.

Prosecco served warm is not ideal; you can add a few ice cubes to your glass if you want it extra cold.

3. Swirl It Around

Once you have your glass of prosecco, hold it by the stem and give it a gentle swirl. This will help release the aromas and allow you to enjoy the flavor.

4. Smell It

After you’ve given your glass a swirl, please take a moment to smell it. This will help you identify the different aromas and prepare your taste buds for what’s to come.

5. Take a Sip and Savor the Flavor

Now, it’s time to take a sip and enjoy the flavor. Let the bubbles tickle your tongue as you savor the sweetness of the wine.

The Different Types of Prosecco

There are three types of prosecco: brut, extra dry, and dry. The main difference between these types is the sugar content.

• Brut: The driest variety of prosecco, which has no more than 12 grams of sugar per liter.
• Extra Dry: The sugar content of a bottle of extra dry prosecco ranges from 12 to 17 grams.
• Dry: There are between 17 and 32 grams of sugar in a liter of dry prosecco.

The type of prosecco you choose will depend on your personal preference. If you prefer a sweeter wine, you’ll want to go for the extra dry or dry. But brut is the way to go if you like your wine on the drier side.

How To Serve Prosecco With Meals

Prosecco is a versatile wine that you can pair with various foods. But, of course, the food choice will depend on the type of prosecco you’re drinking.

Brut prosecco pairs well with fish and light pasta dishes. Extra dry prosecco goes well with chicken, veal, and creamy pasta dishes. And dry prosecco is ideal for pairing with heavier pasta dishes and meats.

Best Prosecco Cocktails

There are a variety of different cocktails that you can make with prosecco. Sweet cocktail options include the Peach Bellini and the Pomegranate Mimosa.

Try an Aperol Spritz or a Prosecco Punch if you want something with a little more kick to it.

Aperol Spritz

This refreshing cocktail is made with prosecco, Aperol, and soda water. It’s the perfect drink to enjoy on a warm day.

Ingredients:

• 1 part Aperol
• 3 parts prosecco
• 1 splash of soda water

Instructions:

1. Add Aperol to a glass.
2. Top with prosecco and a splash of soda water.
3. Garnish with an orange slice, and enjoy.

Peach Bellini

This classic cocktail is made with peach puree and prosecco. It’s the perfect drink to enjoy during the summer months.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup peach puree
• 1 bottle prosecco

Instructions:

1. Add peach puree to a blender and blend until smooth.
2. Pour puree into a glass and top with prosecco.
3. Add a peach slice for garnish and savor.

Pomegranate Mimosa

This fun twist on a classic mimosa is made with pomegranate juice and prosecco. It’s the perfect drink to enjoy during the holiday season.

Ingredients:

• 1/2 cup pomegranate juice
• 1 bottle prosecco

Instructions:

1. Add pomegranate juice to a glass.
2. Splash some prosecco on top and savor.

Takeaway

Prosecco is a light, refreshing, sparkling wine from Italy. It’s made from the grape variety Glera and is usually served chilled in a flute glass. There are three types of prosecco: brut, extra dry, and dry. The type you choose will depend on your personal preference.

Prosecco is a versatile wine that you can pair with various foods. It’s also the perfect base for a variety of cocktails such as the Bellini, Mimosa, and Aperol Spritz.

Frequently Asked Questions