WHAT IS THE BEST ITALIAN SPARKLING WINE?
Italy is home to some of the world’s most celebrated sparkling wines. From Prosecco to Franciacorta, these wines are beloved for their lively bubbles and elegant flavors. In this blog, we’ll explore the history and production methods of Italian sparkling wine and learn a bit more about these delicious bubbly beverages.
The history of Italian sparkling wines dates back centuries. While there is evidence of sparkling wines being made in the country as early as the 1500s, it wasn’t until the 19th century that the style gained widespread popularity. The development of the méthode champenoise in the Champagne region of France was adapted and perfected in Italy, and by the mid-1800s, these Italian drinks were being exported around the world.
The Method
Today, Italian sparkling wines are produced using two main methods: the traditional méthode champenoise and the Charmat method. The méthode champenoise is a labor-intensive process that involves re-fermenting the wine in the bottle, resulting in a delicate and elegant sparkler. On the other hand, the Charmat method is much faster and uses large tanks to carbonate the wine.
3 Best Types of Sparkling Wines:
- Franciacorta Essence Brut 2018 Antica Fratta
Franciacorta Essence Brut 2018 is a sparkling wine produced by Antica Fratta winery in Italy's Franciacorta region. This wine is made using the traditional method, also known as the "Champagne method," which involves a secondary fermentation in the bottle to produce the bubbles.
The Franciacorta Essence Brut 2018 is a blend of Chardonnay (85%) and Pinot Noir (15%) grapes grown in the hilly vineyards of Franciacorta. The wine has a bright straw yellow color with a fine and persistent perlage. It offers fruity and floral aromas on the nose with notes of citrus, peach, and acacia flowers. On the palate, it is dry, fresh, and balanced with a good acidity and a pleasant minerality.
This wine pairs well with various food in Italy, including fish, seafood, white meats, and light pasta dishes. It is also an excellent choice as an aperitif. Overall, the Franciacorta Essence Brut 2018 is a high-quality sparkling wine that is well worth trying if you enjoy Italian sparkling wines.
- Prosecco DOC Victoria
Prosecco DOC Victoria is one of the best types of sparkling wine produced in the Veneto region of Italy. It is made from the Glera grape variety and is produced in accordance with the regulations set forth by the Prosecco DOC Consortium.
To be labeled Prosecco DOC Victoria, the wine must be made from grapes grown in the hills of the Veneto region and undergo a secondary fermentation in the bottle using the traditional "Champagne method." The wine must also meet certain quality standards regarding its sugar, acidity, and alcohol content.
Prosecco DOC Victoria is known for its bright, fruity aromas and flavors, often including apple, pear, and citrus notes. It typically has a pale straw color and a light, effervescent mouthfeel.
- Prosecco G&G Valdobbiadene Superiore De Faveri
Prosecco G&G Valdobbiadene Superiore De Faveri is a high-quality sparkling wine from the Valdobbiadene region in Veneto, Italy. It is made using the Glera grape variety and produced using the Charmat method. It involves a secondary fermentation in large stainless steel tanks, resulting in a fresh and lively effervescence.
The Prosecco G&G Valdobbiadene Superiore De Faveri has a pale straw-yellow color with greenish reflections and a persistent perlage. It has delicate aromas of apple, pear, and citrus fruits on the nose, with a hint of floral notes. The palate is dry, light, and refreshing, with a good acidity and a pleasant fruity finish.
This wine is best served chilled and is an excellent aperitif or accompaniment to light appetizers, seafood, and salads. It has an alcohol content of around 11% and should be consumed within 2-3 years of bottling to enjoy its fresh and lively character fully.
Looking for more tips?
- Look for bottles with the DOCG designation, which guarantees quality and authenticity.
- Investigate the various producers from different Italian regions to find the one that best suits your taste. Tita Italia manufactures the best Italian wines for you at one place!
- Try to find a sparkling wine that balances sweetness and acidity. Consider a sparkling wine with higher alcohol content for a bolder flavor.
- Look for bottles aged for at least 18 months to ensure a richer flavor. Also, check for bottles that blend different grape varieties for a unique flavor.
- Try a local Italian sparkling wine to get a taste of the region. Go to a wine tasting to find the best Italian sparkling wine for your taste.