Celebrating National Prosecco Day: A Toast to Italy’s Sparkling Treasure

August 13th is a date that sparkles on our calendar—literally! It’s National Prosecco Day, a day dedicated to celebrating one of Italy’s most beloved exports. We couldn’t be more excited to pop a bottle and share with you the joys of Prosecco. From its rich history to the perfect way to serve it, we’re here to help you celebrate this bubbly delight in style.

 

What is Prosecco?

Prosecco is a sparkling wine that hails from the picturesque regions of Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia in northeastern Italy. Made primarily from the Glera grape, Prosecco is known for its light, fruity, and floral notes, making it a refreshing alternative to Champagne. Unlike Champagne, which undergoes its secondary fermentation in the bottle, Prosecco is produced using the Charmat method, where the second fermentation occurs in large stainless steel tanks. This process helps to preserve the wine’s fresh and vibrant characteristics, resulting in a beverage that is easy to drink and perfect for any occasion.
Prosecco typically has a lower alcohol content than many other wines, usually ranging between 11% and 12%, making it an ideal choice for daytime celebrations or as an aperitif. It’s also wonderfully versatile, pairing beautifully with a wide range of foods, from light appetizers to spicy dishes, and of course, it’s the star ingredient in a classic Bellini or Aperol Spritz.
Prosecco’s origins date back to Roman times, with the earliest references to a wine called “Puccino,” which was believed to be the precursor to modern-day Prosecco. The wine we know and love today began to take shape in the 19th century when the Glera grape was formally recognized as the primary grape used in its production.

Vinea 6.75oz Prosecco Flute

 

Tips on Serving and Storing Prosecco

To truly appreciate Prosecco’s delicate bubbles and vibrant flavors, proper serving and storage are essential. Here are some tips to ensure your Prosecco experience is nothing short of perfect:

1. Chill to Perfection: Prosecco should be served chilled, ideally between 40-45°F (4-7°C). Too warm, and the wine will taste overly sweet and flat; too cold, and the flavors will be muted. The best way to chill Prosecco is to place the bottle in a bucket of ice and water for about 30 minutes before serving. Avoid placing it in the freezer, as this can shock the wine and alter its taste.
2. Open with Care: Opening a bottle of Prosecco is an art in itself. To avoid a fizzy mess, remove the foil and wire cage, hold the cork firmly, and gently twist the bottle—not the cork—until the cork eases out with a soft pop. The goal is to preserve as many bubbles as possible!
3. Serve in the Right Glass: The glass you choose can greatly impact your Prosecco experience. While the traditional flute is popular, a tulip-shaped glass or a white wine glass is actually recommended. These glasses allow more room for the aromas to develop and enhance the wine’s flavor profile. The slightly wider bowl also helps to maintain the bubbles, so you can enjoy that refreshing fizz with every sip.
4. Store Properly: If you don’t finish the bottle (though we won’t blame you if you do!), be sure to reseal it with a Champagne stopper and store it in the refrigerator. Prosecco is best enjoyed within two days of opening, as it can lose its effervescence over time.

Michelangelo Prosecco Glass

 

National Prosecco Day is the perfect opportunity to indulge in this sparkling sensation and explore its many facets. Whether you’re a seasoned connoisseur or new to the world of Prosecco, there’s always something to discover and enjoy. Cheers!