Sparkling wine & Prosecco

Buying guide: sparkling wine and Prosecco

Sparkling wine, often referred to as the sparkling counterpart to still wine, is a sparkling wine that originates from Germany. It is characterized by its fine perlage and refreshing taste. Sparkling wine is produced by a second fermentation, during which carbon dioxide is produced, which gives the wine its bubbly quality. There are various quality levels of sparkling wine, which differ in taste, production method and origin. The best-known varieties include classic German sparkling wine, vintner's sparkling wine and crémant.

German sparkling wine is usually produced using the Méthode Charmat, in which the second fermentation takes place in large pressurized tanks. Winzersekt, on the other hand, is produced using the traditional bottle fermentation method, similar to champagne. This method ensures a finer perlage and more complex aromas. Crémant is a special type of sparkling wine that is produced in certain regions of Germany and France and must meet strict quality criteria.

Our recommendations: Sparkling Wine & Prosecco

The noble one: Bottega Gold Prosecco 

Bottega Gold Prosecco comes from Distilleria Bottega, which was founded in 1977 in Pianzano di Godega (Treviso). The winery is located in the Veneto region in Bibano di Godega, between the Venice lagoon and the Dolomites. The Prosecco is made from Glera grapes, which grow in the Valdobbiadene hills. This region is known for its steep slopes densely planted with vines. The golden bottle of Bottega Gold is not only visually appealing, but also protects the Prosecco from light and thus preserves its freshness and aromas. Bottega Gold impresses with its fine perlage and fruity taste with notes of golden apple, Williams pear, acacia and citrus fruits. A harmonious, elegant and fresh Prosecco that is ideal as a high-quality gift.

The exotic: Krim Sekt Royal, sweet 

Crimean sparkling wine has its roots in 1799, when it was first produced in the Crimean towns of Sudak and Alushta. Crimea is known for its mild climate, which provides ideal conditions for growing grapes. Crimean Sekt Royal is still produced in traditional wineries today. The combination of selected grapes and traditional bottle fermentation guarantees high quality. The sweet Crimean sparkling wine is characterized by its pleasant sweetness and harmonious taste, which goes perfectly with desserts or as an aperitif.

The regional one: Helgoland Sekt Rosé 

The "Helgoland Sekt Rosé 0.75 liter 12.5% vol." is an exclusive sparkling wine produced and bottled especially for the island of Heligoland. This rosé sparkling wine impresses with its fruity aromas and fresh, invigorating acidity. With its elegant color and harmonious taste, it is an ideal accompaniment to light dishes and festive occasions.

Difference between sparkling wine and Prosecco

Sparkling wine and Prosecco are both sparkling wines, but differ in origin, production and taste. Prosecco comes from Italy, more precisely from the Veneto and Friuli-Venezia Giulia regions. The main grape variety for Prosecco is Glera. Prosecco is mainly produced using the Méthode Charmat, whereby the second fermentation takes place in large pressurized tanks. This gives Prosecco its light, fresh and fruity note.

Sparkling wine, on the other hand, is mainly produced in Germany and can consist of different grape varieties. The production methods vary, with traditional bottle fermentation (Méthode Champenoise) being used for Winzersekt and Crémant, while classic sparkling wine is often produced using the Méthode Charmat. Sparkling wine generally has a finer perlage and a greater variety of flavors than Prosecco.

Frequently asked questions (FAQ)

What is the best sparkling wine/Prosecco?

The best sparkling wine or Prosecco depends on personal preference. Bottega Gold Prosecco, for example, is very popular for its elegance and fruity notes. For lovers of sweet sparkling wines, the Krim Sekt Royal is an excellent choice.

How much does a good Prosecco cost?

A good Prosecco usually costs between 10 and 30 euros, depending on the brand, quality and origin.

What is the difference between sparkling wine and Prosecco?

Sparkling wine comes mainly from Germany and can be made from different grape varieties, while Prosecco comes from Italy and is mainly made from Glera grapes. Both also differ in the way they are produced and in their taste profile.

How do I recognize good sparkling wine?

Good sparkling wine has a fine, even perlage, balanced acidity and complex aromas. The label can also provide information on quality, for example details on traditional bottle fermentation or origin.

What does "Brut" mean for Prosecco?

"Brut" refers to the dryness of Prosecco and means that the sugar content is very low, usually less than 12 grams per liter. Brut Prosecco is therefore very dry.

What does "Spumante" mean for Prosecco?

"Spumante" means that it is a sparkling wine, in contrast to "Frizzante", which contains less carbon dioxide.

What does "DOC" mean for Prosecco?

"Denominazione di Origine Controllata" (DOC) is an Italian designation of origin that guarantees quality and geographical origin.

How does rosé sparkling wine differ from normal sparkling wine?

Rosé sparkling wine is produced either by adding a little red wine to white sparkling wine or by briefly macerating red grapes. It often has more fruity aromas and a slightly tart note.

How should sparkling wine be stored?

Sparkling wine should be stored in a cool, dry and dark place. Ideally at temperatures between 10 and 15 degrees Celsius.

How do you drink sparkling wine?

Sparkling wine is best served chilled at a temperature of 6 to 8 degrees Celsius. Use narrow, tall glasses to preserve the perlage.

How do you open a bottle of sparkling wine correctly?

Hold the bottle at an angle and loosen the wire basket while holding the cork with one hand. Turn the bottle slowly until the cork comes loose without popping out.

How is sparkling wine made?

Sparkling wine is produced by a second fermentation in which carbon dioxide is produced. This can take place in the bottle (traditional method) or in large pressurized tanks (Méthode Charmat).

How is Prosecco made?

Prosecco is usually produced according to the Méthode Charmat, with the second fermentation taking place in large pressurized tanks. This gives it its light, fresh and fruity notes.

What food goes well with sparkling wine?

Sparkling wine is an excellent accompaniment to light starters, seafood, sushi, poultry and fresh salads. Sweet sparkling wine can also be served with desserts such as fruit cake or chocolate mousse.