Italian sparkling wine

Discover Italy through its sparkling wines. Here are the different types of sparkling wines and where they are made.

Prosecco

These are the best known Italian sparkling wines, made in the northern part of the country, both in Veneto and in Fruili-Venezia. It is a sparkling wine with a very smooth, effervescent, citrus and sweet character, and is very easy to drink. It is made with the Charmat method, which is faster than the Champenoise, with second fermentation taking place in stainless steel and not in individual bottles. The predominant grape in these Italian sparkling wines is the Glera, although it is mixed with Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and others. Another notable feature of Prosecco is that they are low in alcohol, making them perfect to enjoy cold for any occasion. 

Franciacorta

These Italian sparkling wines come from Lombardy in the province of Brescia and are made according to the traditional Champenoise method. Franciacorta wines are subject to strict rules in production and the only grape varieties allowed are Pinot Noir, Pinot Blanc and Chardonnay. These sparkling wines age for 18 to 60 months and are then divided into Millesimato (minimum 30 months of aging), Rosé (minimum 24 months of aging), Satèn (minimum 24 months of aging and 5 or 6 atmospheres of pressure), Reserva (60 months of aging) and Franciacorta Dosaggio Zero (without added sugar = Brut Nature). 

Asti DOCG

In Piedmont (literally at the foot of the mountains) we find wines with the Asti controlled and guaranteed designation of origin stamp. Made with Moscatel Blanca using the Charmat method, DOCG Asti sparkling wines are perfect for enjoying with dessert or between courses. They have a delightful sweet character and are really worth trying.

Lambrusco

The famous Italian Lambruscos are made in the four areas of Emilia-Romagna and in one in Lombardy. Low-alcohol sparkling wines, with a gentle bubble and with strong hints of fruit. It is important to know the difference between wines labelled “amabile” (sparkling wines with a marked sweet touch) and “secco” (more bitter sparkling wines with a fruity touch). Lambruscos are perfectly suited to Italian cuisine and are therefore very easy to pair.