How is Prosecco Made?
For the new wine drinkers or seldom sippers, you may believe that all sparkling wine is essentially the same. You may be familiar with Champagne and Prosecco, but did you know there’s a big difference between the two?
Winemakers use a Traditional Method to make Champagne, and this method tends to be more expensive. Champagne is typically made with Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier.
Prosecco uses the Tank Method (aka Charmat Method). This method tends to be less expensive and uses one main grape. Here’s how its made.
Prosecco is primarily made from the Glera grape, which is the main varietal used in the production of this sparkling wine. The process of making Prosecco involves several key steps:
Harvesting: The grapes are usually hand-harvested in the early fall. This timing ensures the grapes reach optimal ripeness and acidity.
Crushing and Pressing: After harvesting, the grapes are lightly crushed, and the juice is separated from the skins. This is done to minimize color extraction, as Prosecco is typically a white wine.
Fermentation: The grape juice is fermented in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures. This primary fermentation lasts about 10 to 15 days and converts the sugars in the grape juice into alcohol.
Secondary Fermentation: To achieve the sparkling quality, a second fermentation occurs, primarily using the Charmat method (also known as the tank method). In this method, the wine is transferred to a sealed tank where additional sugar and yeast are added. This process creates carbon dioxide, giving the wine its bubbles.
Clarification: After secondary fermentation, the Prosecco is clarified to remove any sediment. This can be done through methods such as cold stabilization and fining.
Filtration: The wine is then filtered to ensure clarity and stability.
Bottling: Finally, the Prosecco is bottled under pressure to retain its sparkling characteristics. It may be further aged briefly before being released to the market.
Labeling and Quality Control: The final product undergoes quality control checks, and bottles are labeled accordingly, including designations for style (e.g., extra dry, brut) based on sugar levels.
Prosecco is known for its fresh and fruity flavor profile, commonly featuring notes of apple, pear, and floral elements.
