As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that Prosecco is not generally considered a sweet wine. While there are variations in sweetness levels among different Prosecco wines, the majority of them lean towards a dry or brut style. This means that they have a minimal amount of residual sugar, resulting in a crisp and refreshing taste.
Prosecco is made primarily from the Glera grape, which naturally imparts a fruity flavor to the wine. This fruitiness can sometimes be mistaken for sweetness, especially for those who are not accustomed to tasting different wine styles. However, it is important to note that the fruity notes in Prosecco are more about the grape's inherent characteristics rather than added sugar.
The sweetness level of Prosecco can be categorized using the International Riesling Foundation (IRF) scale, which ranges from bone dry to lusciously sweet. Prosecco typically falls in the brut category, which is the driest level on the scale. Brut Prosecco contains less than 12 grams of residual sugar per liter, making it a popular choice for those who prefer a drier wine.
That being said, it's worth mentioning that there are also off-dry or slightly sweeter versions of Prosecco available, such as extra dry or dry. These wines may have a touch of residual sugar, but they still maintain a predominantly dry profile. It's all about finding the right balance between fruitiness and sweetness that suits your personal taste preferences.
As a sommelier, I have come across various Prosecco wines, and I have seen how people perceive their sweetness differently. Some individuals may perceive even the driest Prosecco as slightly sweet due to the fruitiness of the Glera grape. Others may find the brut style to be perfectly dry and enjoy its crispness.
In my personal experience, I have encountered guests who were surprised by the dryness of Prosecco, expecting it to be sweeter based on its fruity aroma. It's always interesting to witness their reactions when they discover the refreshing and lively character of a well-made brut Prosecco.
To summarize, while Prosecco may have a fruity flavor profile, it is generally considered a dry wine, particularly the brut style. However, individual perceptions of sweetness can vary, and it's essential to explore different Prosecco wines to find the one that suits your personal taste preferences.