Bottega is a brand that is well-known for its delicious sparkling wines. While some wine drinkers may refer to these sparklers as “Bottega Champagne,” it is important to clarify that they are not actually Champagne. Champagne is a specific type of sparkling wine that comes from the Champagne region in France and must adhere to certain production methods and regulations.
Bottega sparkling wines, on the other hand, are closer in style to the Italian Prosecco. Prosecco is a sparkling wine that originates from the Veneto region in Italy and is made using the Charmat method, which involves conducting the second fermentation in large tanks. This method results in a fresher and fruitier style of sparkling wine, which is similar to what you can expect from Bottega sparklers.
Having had the opportunity to taste and evaluate Bottega sparkling wines, I can say that they possess many characteristics that are typical of Prosecco. They often exhibit vibrant fruit flavors, such as apple, pear, and citrus, with a crisp and refreshing acidity. The bubbles are usually fine and persistent, creating a lively effervescence in the glass.
One of the reasons why some people may refer to Bottega sparklers as “Bottega Champagne” is because of the similarities in appearance. The bottles used for Bottega sparkling wines often resemble the traditional Champagne bottle shape, with a thick glass base and a punt at the bottom. This may lead to the misconception that they are Champagne, but it is important to remember that the bottle shape alone does not determine the type of wine inside.
Another factor that contributes to the confusion between Bottega and Champagne is the perception of quality and prestige associated with the term “Champagne.” Champagne has long been regarded as the epitome of sparkling wine excellence, with its long history and association with luxury and celebration. This reputation has led to the term “Champagne” being used colloquially to refer to any sparkling wine that is perceived as high quality or special, even if it does not come from the Champagne region.
In my opinion, it is important to appreciate Bottega sparkling wines for what they are – well-crafted, flavorful, and enjoyable Prosecco-style sparklers. While they may not have the same level of prestige as Champagne, they offer a delightful alternative that is well-suited for casual celebrations, brunches, or simply enjoying on a sunny afternoon.
To summarize, Bottega is not Champagne but rather a producer of sparkling wines that are more similar in style to Italian Prosecco. These sparklers offer a fresh and fruity profile, with fine bubbles and a lively effervescence. While they may share some similarities with Champagne, it is essential to recognize and appreciate them for their unique characteristics and the enjoyable experience they provide.