PROSECCO, ASTI AND LAMBRUSCO: ITALIAN SPARKLING EXPLAINED

Welcome to EasyGusto, your online destination to discover the treasures of Italian gastronomy! Today we'll explore the fascinating world of Italian sparkling wines, from elegant Prosecco to delicious Lambrusco to refreshing Asti.

The origins of Prosecco

Prosecco is undoubtedly one of the most famous and appreciated sparkling wines in the world. Originating from the Veneto region in northeastern Italy, Prosecco takes its name from the eponymous grape variety which gives it its unique character.

In the past, Prosecco was produced using the ancestral method, with a second fermentation in the bottle. But since the 1960s, the Charmat method, or closed tank method, has become established. This technique allows fermentation in closed vats, giving Prosecco its delicate effervescence and its characteristic fruity notes.

Today, Prosecco benefits from a controlled designation of origin (DOC) and a controlled and guaranteed designation of origin (DOCG) which strictly regulate its production. The best Prosecco comes from DOCG zones like Prosecco di Valdobbiadene and Prosecco di Conegliano.

The different styles of Prosecco

Prosecco comes in several styles, depending on its residual sugar level and its sparkle:

• Prosecco Brut: very dry, with less than 12 g/L of sugar
• Prosecco Extra Dry: dry, with 12 to 17 g/L of sugar
• Prosecco Dry: slightly sweet, with 17 to 32 g/L of sugar

Prosecco Spumante is the best known, with significant effervescence. But there are also Frizzante versions, with a lighter sparkle, as well as still Prosecco, without bubbles.

Asti, the sweet sparkling

If Prosecco is the standard bearer of Italian sparkling wines, Asti also has its place of choice. Produced in the Piedmont region, Asti is a sweet sparkling wine, made from the Moscato Bianco grape variety.

Unlike Prosecco, Asti follows the traditional method of second fermentation in the bottle. This gives it a finer and more persistent effervescence, as well as a more aromatic and fruity character.

Asti is distinguished by its pale color, its floral nose and its notes of white fruits such as peach and melon. On the palate, it offers a beautiful sweetness balanced by an invigorating freshness. It is a perfect wine for desserts, brunches or moments of relaxation.

The different types of Asti

Besides Asti Spumante, the best known, there are other variations:

• Moscato d'Asti: lighter and smoother version, with a lower alcohol content
• Asti Secco: drier version, with less residual sugar

Whatever the version, Asti always stands out for its fruity character and delicate effervescence.

Lambrusco, the sparkling red

If Prosecco and Asti are safe bets, Lambrusco is also worth a detour. Originating from the Emilia-Romagna region, Lambrusco is a sparkling red wine that has long been considered a low quality wine.

But in recent years, producers have revitalized this appellation by emphasizing quality and authenticity. Lambrusco is available today in several styles, from the driest to the sweetest, including rosé versions.

The different styles of Lambrusco

• Lambrusco Secco: dry version, with nice acidity
• Lambrusco Amabile: slightly sweet version, rounder in the mouth
• Lambrusco Dolce: sweeter version, with more residual sugar

Whatever the style, Lambrusco is characterized by its ruby ​​color, its aromas of red fruits and its invigorating effervescence. It is a perfect wine to accompany spicy dishes, cold meats or grilled meats.

Conclusion

From elegant Prosecco to fruity Asti to convivial Lambrusco, Italian sparkling wines offer an incredible diversity of styles and flavors. Whether you are a fan of dry bubbles or fruity sweets, you will definitely find what you are looking for among these transalpine treasures.

Don’t hesitate to explore our EasyGusto selection to discover all these exceptional Italian sparkling wines. Health !