No matter what the occasion is, popping open a bottle of sparkling wine is a great way to add to the celebratory spirit of a party! After all, there’s nothing quite like a glass of fine wine to lift up your spirits. When it comes to sparkling wines, two of the global favorites are Champagne and Prosecco.
These two sparkling wines are often used interchangeably. However, these two bubbly drinks are very different from each other. Before you open the cork of your next bottle, let us first take you through everything you need to know about Champagne vs Prosecco. After all, it never hurts to have a little knowledge about something as delicious and fun as sparkling wine!
Difference In Production Regions
The sparkling wine that’s made in the Champagne region of France can be called Champagne. On the other hand, Prosecco comes from the Veneto region, in Italy. So, in simple terms, not every sparkling wine can be labeled as ‘Champagne’ unless they’re from France.
Fun Fact: Interestingly, both these regions are known to have a cool and rainy climate. The grapes for Champagne and Prosecco are planted in hilly regions and are known to have good exposure to sunlight.
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Grape Variety In Champagne Vs Prosecco
For the sparkling wine to be called Champagne, it should be made from grapes that are grown in the Champagne region of France. The identity of Champagne also comes from the trio of grapes that are used to make it. Those are Chardonnay ( green grapes from the Burgundy region), Pinot Noir (black thick-skinned grape), and Pinot Meunier (black grape).
However, many winemakers also are permitted to use Petit Meslier, Pinot Gris, and Arbane. But these are permitted to be used in small quantities. Most of the Champagnes produced are a blend of the former three grape varieties.
It’s a known fact that the building base of Champagne production is its richness and depth in flavor. Prosecco is its counterpart, which can be considered more fruit-driven. The grape variety that is used to make Prosecco is ‘Glera’. It’s a thin-skinned grape, known to have moderate levels of acidity. To make this sparkling wine, it should contain at least 85% of Glera grapes. Wondering about the rest of the 15% of this wine? Italian grape varieties like Bianchetta Trevigiana, Perera, and other international grape varieties like Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio make up for the rest of the wine. The grapes grown in Northern Italy are used for the production of Prosecco.
Fun Fact: Both Champagne and Prosecco require the grapes to be hand-picked and harvested before they reach their optimal ripeness. This is done to preserve their natural acidity levels.
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Production Methods Of Champagne And Prosecco
Another key difference between Champagne and Prosecco is their methods of production. This difference lies in how these wines are made sparkling. For both, the second fermentation occurs which produces carbon dioxide which is responsible for making the wine sparkling.
The traditional method called ‘Method Champenoise’ is used to make Champagne. It’s the process wherein the wine is made sparkling or bubbly after it’s bottled. This is also the time when yeast and sugars are added to the wine. The yeast and sugar combination is what sets off the second fermentation process. This produces a certain amount of alcohol along with carbon dioxide.
After that, the bottle is corked and left to mature for around 1.5 to 3 years. As you can see, the production method for Champagne is quite lengthy. That’s one of the reasons why it is so costly! Next time you’re popping up a bottle of Champagne for a bachelorette party, flaunt your knowledge about its making process.
Let’s not forget Champagne’s twin sister, Prosecco! It’s not just the Glera grapes used to make Prosecco that differentiate it from Champagne. The start of the production process is the same – first harvesting the grapes, then crushing, and then fermenting them to make wine. But, everything changes after fermentation!
The ‘Charmat Method’ is used to make Prosecco. Unlike Champagne, the fermentation takes place in a huge stainless steel tank instead of the bottle. Such large tank fermentation gives a fruity character to the wine.
There, you have it, the fruity, less sparkly, Prosecco is then produced! If your pocket is lighter than usual and you need sparkling wine for your upcoming party, go for Prosecco. Why, you ask? Well, it’s much easier to produce compared to Champagne. So, you won’t have to spend a fortune on a good bottle of Prosecco!
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Tasting Notes Of Champagne Vs Prosecco
Since both these wines are produced differently, they have different flavor profiles. The fine and persistent bubbles of Champagne come from the carbonation that takes place under high pressure. It generally has a complex flavor profile with brioche, yeast, and biscuits. These flavors are accompanied by subtle notes of orange blossom, white peach, and almond. Since the aging process of Champagne is longer, the bubbles are much more elegant and the texture more refined.
The second fermentation process of Prosecco takes place in a tank. This gives it its floral and fruity flavors. The typical flavor profile of Prosecco is that of apple, melon, pear, and honeysuckle. Prosecco has light and airy bubbles. Champagne, on the other hand, has finer and long-lasting bubbles as its production involves high-pressure carbonation.
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Food Pairings For Champagne And Prosecco
Both Champagne and Prosecco can be enjoyed just as wines and they also taste exceptionally well when paired with food. The flavors of sparkling wines, both dry and sweet varieties, can be enhanced when they’re enjoyed with food. In general, there are certain kinds of dishes that taste incredible with these wines.
When it comes to Champagne, it’s dry and has high acidity. So, foods that are salty and fatty will let you experience this drink like a pro and enjoy its true taste. Dishes like fried appetizers, shellfish, fried chicken, and pickled veggies taste delicious with a glass of Champagne. This bubbly drink also tastes great with fried potatoes and steak.
Prosecco also has high acidity but also a lot of natural sweetness. So, food that is acidic, fatty, salty, and sweet tastes great with this wine. Italian cheeses and a glass of Prosecco – definitely a match made in heaven! If you’re hosting a wine-tasting party at home, you can serve Prosecco with fish and chips or pizza. Even foods like Asian curries and sweet dishes like cheesecake taste great with it.
Summing Up
Need a fancy drink for your upcoming dinner party? A bottle of sparkling wine can certainly bring in the fun element! Prosecco and its luxury-branded sister, Champagne, both can impress your guests and make your party more happening! We’ve taken you through everything you need to know about Champagne vs Prosecco. So, which one is best for you? Maybe it’s time you try both and decide which one is going to make it to your next wine cocktail party!
FAQs
Is Champagne Really Better Than Prosecco?
There’s no clear winner here regarding the debate about whether Champagne tastes better than Prosecco. Both wines have unique flavor profiles. You will have to try both to figure out which one suits your palate.
How Do Italians Drink Prosecco?
Italians enjoy Prosecco as a chilled drink or in cocktails like Mimosas.
Which Is Sweeter Prosecco Or Champagne?
Compared to Champagne, Prosecco has a sweeter taste. Hence, it tastes really good with foods like fruit appetizers and even cured meats.
Is Prosecco Good For Beginners?
Compared to other sparkling wines, Prosecco has a lighter body and a fruity taste. So, this refreshing and easy-to-drink wine is a good choice for beginners.
Why Is Prosecco So Popular?
Prosecco is an Italian wine that is quite easy on the pocket, and hence very popular among wine enthusiasts. Apart from that, this light-bodied wine is popular because it’s fresh, high in aromas, and has a crispy texture.
Should Prosecco Be Chilled?
Yes, Prosecco can be chilled. You can serve it after chilling it for 40℉ to 45℉.
Does Prosecco Pop Like Champagne?
Just like Champagne, Prosecco also pops and develops bubbles.
Which Is Better For Mimosas Champagne Or Prosecco?
Prosecco can be the go-to wine for making Mimosas. This wine is sweet in taste and can add a fruity flavor to your cocktail.
