Wine for the Weekend of 2/7/20

Prosecco is the Wine for the Weekend of 2/7/20

With Spring fast approaching, now is a good time to stock up on the Wine for the Weekend of 2/7/20, Prosecco. The primary grape is glera. And, Prosecco is at least 85% glera. The Prosecco area located in the Veneto region is very similar to the Chianti are in Tuscany. If you refer to the map below, you see the whole area in yellow where they make basic Prosecco. Then, the better quality versions are in the different colored areas. Since Prosecco is fairly priced, buy the better ones if you can afford them. Spend more than $10 and avoid Cupcake’s version. And, spend $15-$22 if you can.

More On Prosecco

Like I said, the good ones are $15 or more, FROM ITALY. They are better depending on the place it is made like Treviso or Valdobbiadene. Prosecco comes in a still version as well. So, look for the large foil wrapped cork and Champagne-like bottle shape which lets you know that it’s under pressure from the bubbles. Most come frizzante which means slightly bubbly. There is a spumante version which means it will have lots of bubbles like Champagne. Make the famous Bellini by mixing Prosecco with peach puree. Stirred, not shaken is correct. That is an Italian favorite!

Aromas, Tastes and Pairings

Most Prosecco wines are produced in a dry, brut style. However, due to the fruity flavors of green apple, honeydew, pear, and honeysuckle, it seems sweeter than it is. Even though brut is the most popular sweetness level of Prosecco sold today, there are styles that are sweeter if you seek them out. Pair Prosecco with prosciutto, stuffed mushrooms, creamy sauces, seafood, fried foods, spicy Asian foods. And, try it with potato chips or buttered popcorn. This is a very food friendly wine like Champagne.

Prosecco Wines

I selected four different types of Prosecco, starting with basic to the most rare and expensive. If you can find Cartizze Prosecco, let me know. I want a bottle. Conegliano Valdobbiadene is much easier to find. And, it is good enough for me. I rarely drink basic Prosecco. There is a huge difference in quality and taste.

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