Today, let’s go back to business as usual and I’ll just talk about some of my favourites drops. In this case, time to talk bubbles.
Italian sparkling wines are renowned for their elegance and ability to bring a touch of celebration to any occasion. So let us explore the delightful world of Italian sparkling wines, including the popular Prosecco, the fantastic Franciacorta, the sweet Asti Spumante, and the marvellous Moscato. I’ll tell you a bit about their unique productions, suggest serving styles, and provide delectable food pairings to enhance your sparkling wine experience.
1. Prosecco
Prosecco is undoubtedly one of the most beloved Italian sparkling wines. Hailing from the Veneto region, it is crafted primarily from the Glera grape. Prosecco charms with its fresh, fruity flavours, lively effervescence, and approachable character. Produced using the Charmat method, where the secondary fermentation takes place in large tanks, Prosecco is an excellent choice for casual gatherings and joyful celebrations.
Serving Suggestion: Serve Prosecco chilled in a flute or a white wine glass to preserve its effervescence. Consider adding a splash of peach puree for a delightful Bellini cocktail.
Food Pairing: Prosecco pairs wonderfully with light appetisers, seafood, fresh salads, and delicate desserts like lemon tarts or meringue-based pastries.
2. Franciacorta
Hailing from the Lombardy region, Franciacorta stands as Italy’s answer to Champagne. Made using the traditional Metodo Classico, it undergoes secondary fermentation in the bottle, resulting in refined bubbles and complex flavours. Franciacorta wines are known for their elegance, depth, and ageing potential. With its notes of citrus, toast, and hazelnut, this sparkling wine offers a sophisticated and captivating experience.
Serving Suggestion: Serve Franciacorta chilled in a flute or a tulip-shaped glass to enhance its aromas and appreciate the fine, persistent perlage. Allow the wine to breathe for a few minutes before indulging in its nuances.
Food Pairing: Franciacorta complements a range of dishes, from seafood risotto and roasted poultry to creamy cheeses and artisanal charcuterie.
Asti Spumante is a delightful Italian sparkling wine hailing from the Piedmont region. Crafted from the aromatic Moscato Bianco grape, it enchants with its semi-sweet character, floral aromas, and delicate bubbles. Asti Spumante is made using the Charmat method, preserving the wine’s natural sweetness and aromatic intensity.
Serving Suggestion: Serve Asti Spumante well-chilled in a flute or a tulip-shaped glass to showcase its floral bouquet and lively effervescence. Savor its sweet, fruity flavors with every sip.
Food Pairing: Asti Spumante pairs wonderfully with fruit-based desserts, such as fresh berries, peach cobbler, or citrus-infused cakes. It also complements spicy Asian cuisine and soft cheeses.
Moscato is a luscious and aromatic Italian sparkling wine made from the Muscat grape. It is known for its seductive floral aromas, vibrant fruit flavours, and a light effervescence that adds a touch of playfulness to each sip. Moscato is crafted using the Charmat method, which captures and preserves the wine’s natural sweetness.
Serving Suggestion: Serve Moscato well-chilled in a flute or a tulip-shaped glass to capture its aromatic bouquet and delicate bubbles. Allow the wine to express its alluring floral and fruity notes
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