As an expert sommelier and brewer, I can confidently say that Santa Marina Prosecco is not sweet in the traditional sense. Prosecco wine is typically produced in a “brut” style, which means it is dry rather than sweet. However, I understand that the fresh and fruity character of Prosecco can sometimes give the impression of sweetness.
Prosecco is made from the Glera grape variety and is produced in the Veneto region of Italy. The wine undergoes a secondary fermentation in stainless steel tanks, which creates the signature bubbles in the wine. This process, known as the Charmat method, preserves the wine's fresh and fruit-forward flavors.
When tasting Santa Marina Prosecco, you may notice flavors of green apple, pear, citrus, and white flowers. These vibrant and lively flavors can make the wine seem sweeter than it actually is. The natural acidity of Prosecco helps balance the fruitiness and prevents it from becoming cloyingly sweet.
It is important to note that sweetness in wine is measured on a scale called residual sugar (RS). RS refers to the amount of sugar that remains in the wine after fermentation is complete. In the case of Prosecco, the RS is typically low, usually below 12 grams per liter. This low RS contributes to the dryness of the wine.
However, taste perception can vary from person to person. Some individuals may be more sensitive to sweetness, while others may be more attuned to acidity or other flavor components. It's always good to keep in mind that personal preferences and taste buds can influence how we perceive the sweetness of a wine.
In my personal experience, I have found that Santa Marina Prosecco strikes a wonderful balance between its fruitiness and dryness. It is refreshing and crisp, making it an excellent choice for a celebratory drink or aperitif. The effervescence adds a lively and effervescent quality to the wine, enhancing the overall experience.
To summarize, Santa Marina Prosecco is not sweet in the traditional sense, as it is produced in a dry style. However, its fresh and fruity character can create the illusion of sweetness. The low residual sugar and balanced acidity contribute to the wine's overall dryness. Ultimately, taste perception can vary, and it's essential to consider personal preferences when determining if a wine is sweet or not.