Every year on August 13th, National Prosecco Day is celebrated around the world, a day dedicated to celebrating this light and sparkling wine. This Italian sparkling wine has become extremely popular in recent decades due to its distinctive character and affordable price. On this day, people enjoy Prosecco while celebrating its richness, history, and flavor. In this article, we will explore the characteristics of Prosecco, its history, and how it is celebrated.
What is Prosecco?
Prosecco is a type of sparkling white wine made primarily from Glera grapes, which are grown in the Northeast wine regions of Italy. Its flavor is light, refreshing, and bubbly, making it a favorite among many. Prosecco is often compared to Champagne from France, but differences in production and price make Prosecco more accessible.
History of Prosecco
The history of Prosecco dates back over 2000 years. Around 200 BC, during the Roman era, it was known as 'Puccino.' Its name likely comes from the village of 'Prosecco,' which is located near the city of Trieste in Italy and borders Slovenia.
The first documented mention of the name occurred in a poem in 1754, where it was referred to as "Prosecco." In the 1930s, the production area of Prosecco was officially designated, ensuring that only wine made in that region could be called "Prosecco."
Difference Between Prosecco and Champagne
Both wines are sparkling, but their production processes differ. Champagne undergoes a second fermentation in the bottle, while Prosecco undergoes this process in large stainless steel tanks. This makes Prosecco production faster and cheaper.
As a result, Prosecco is more affordable than Champagne, making it easier for more people to buy and drink. However, the bubbles in Prosecco do not last as long, but its flavor is fresh and light.
Types of Prosecco
There are three main types of Prosecco:
- Spumante: This is fully sparkling, with bubbles that last for a long time.
- Frizzante: This is semi-sparkling, meaning it has a slight effervescence.
- Tranquillo: This is non-sparkling and is usually only found within Italy.
How to Celebrate Prosecco Day?
1. Learn About Prosecco
Make this drink even more special by learning about the historical and cultural information of Prosecco on this day. Share its history and fun facts with friends and family.
2. Host a Tasting Party
Organize a tasting party at home with different types of Prosecco. Taste and compare Spumante, Frizzante, and Proseccos with varying sweetness levels (such as Brut, Extra Dry, Dry, Demi-Sec) to find out which one is best for you.
3. Make Prosecco Cocktails
Prosecco is not only for drinking straight but is also delicious in cocktails. Some popular cocktails include:
- Bellini: Born from a Venetian bar, a blend of Prosecco with fresh peach juice.
- Prosecco Mimosa: A classic combination of Prosecco with orange juice.
- Cranberry Pomegranate Prosecco Cocktail: A fruity and colorful cocktail.
- Sparkling Raspberry Martini: Light, sweet, and bubbly.
4. Enjoy a Prosecco Brunch
Some restaurants and cafes offer special Prosecco brunches, where you can enjoy delicious breakfasts with Prosecco. This is a great way to socialize on Prosecco Day.
Fun Facts About Prosecco
- Prosecco Shortage: Due to its popularity, there are times when the supply of Prosecco in Italy runs low.
- 85% Glera Grapes: At least 85% of the grapes used in making Prosecco must be of the Glera variety.
- Four Sweetness Levels: Prosecco is divided into four parts according to sweetness – Brut (least sweet), Extra Dry, Dry, and Demi-Sec (most sweet).
- Birth of the Bellini: The Bellini cocktail was first made with Prosecco at Harry's Bar in Venice in 1948.
National Prosecco Day is an opportunity for us to join in the celebration of this light, sparkling, and enjoyable wine. Prosecco has a deep and rich history, and its affordable price makes it popular among people of all classes. To celebrate this day, open a bottle of Prosecco, share it with friends or family, and bring a little joy and freshness into your life.
