What is Prosecco?
Prosecco is a protected Italian wine from northeastern Italy, made mainly from Glera. Most bottles people meet are sparkling or gently sparkling, with a fresh, fruit-driven, floral personality made for aperitivo rather than long cellar aging.
A still version exists within the wider Prosecco rules, but it is much less common than the sparkling styles seen in shops and restaurants.
Prosecco DOC vs DOCG explained simply
Prosecco DOC is the broader category and can come from a larger area across Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia. The DOCG names are more specific hillside denominations, especially Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG and Asolo Prosecco DOCG.
Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore
This historic Veneto area is the name to learn if you want more precision. The hills between Conegliano and Valdobbiadene produce Prosecco Superiore DOCG from Glera, with styles that can range from very crisp to gently soft.
Asolo Prosecco DOCG
Asolo is another Veneto DOCG name worth knowing. It is smaller and less famous internationally than Conegliano Valdobbiadene, but it also points to a more specific hillside origin than broad Prosecco DOC.
Cartizze, without overhyping it
Cartizze is a small, well-known subzone within the Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore world. It can be excellent, but it is not a magic word. Producer, balance, freshness, and personal taste still matter.
Brut, Extra Dry, Dry
The words are not intuitive. Brut tastes drier than Extra Dry, while Dry can taste softer. If you dislike sweetness, look first at Brut or Extra Brut. If you want a rounder aperitivo style, Extra Dry may work well.
What good Prosecco tastes like
Expect apple, pear, citrus, white flowers, fine bubbles, and a clean finish. Better bottles feel lively and balanced rather than sugary or flat.
Food pairings
Prosecco is excellent with cicchetti, seafood, prosciutto, fried appetizers, and light pasta. Its bubbles and freshness help with salty snacks and delicate dishes.
Buying tips and common mistakes
Do not assume all Prosecco is the same. Do not choose only by price. Learn the sweetness terms, look for DOCG when you want a more specific hillside style, and pay attention to producer reputation.
Prosecco FAQ
Is Prosecco always sweet?
No. It ranges from very dry to softer styles.
What is the difference between Prosecco DOC and DOCG?
DOC is broader. DOCG is more specific, including recognized hillside areas such as Conegliano Valdobbiadene and Asolo.
Is Prosecco from Veneto?
Much of it is, and the Prosecco Superiore areas are in Veneto, though the broader DOC also includes Friuli Venezia Giulia.
What foods pair well with Prosecco?
Cicchetti, seafood, prosciutto, fried starters, and light pasta are all good starting points.