Asti Spumante is a sparkling white wine that originates from the Piedmont region in Italy. It is important to note that while Asti Spumante is a sparkling wine, it is not considered a champagne. Champagne refers specifically to sparkling wine produced in the Champagne region of France, using specific grapes and production methods.
Asti Spumante is primarily made from the Moscato Bianco grape, also known as Moscato d'Asti. This grape variety is known for its aromatic and fruity characteristics, which are preserved during the winemaking process. The wine is made using the Charmat method, where the secondary fermentation takes place in large pressurized tanks, rather than in individual bottles like in the traditional method used for champagne.
The production of Asti Spumante involves several steps. First, the grapes are harvested and gently pressed to extract the juice. The juice is then fermented in stainless steel tanks at a controlled temperature to preserve the grape's natural flavors and aromas. After the primary fermentation, the wine is filtered and chilled to stop the fermentation process.
Next comes the crucial step of refermentation. This is when the wine undergoes a secondary fermentation, where sugar and yeast are added to the base wine in a pressurized tank. This process creates the bubbles and carbonation in the wine. The fermentation is carefully monitored to achieve the desired level of effervescence and balance.
Once the refermentation is complete, the wine is filtered again to remove any remaining yeast sediment. The final product is a sweet and aromatic sparkling wine with a lower alcohol content compared to champagne. Asti Spumante typically has an alcohol content of around 7-9%, making it a lighter and more approachable option.
In terms of taste, Asti Spumante is known for its fruity and floral flavors. It often exhibits notes of peach, apricot, orange blossom, and honey. The wine is naturally sweet, but the high acidity balances out the sweetness, giving it a refreshing and lively character.
Asti Spumante is best enjoyed young and fresh, as its vibrant flavors and aromas tend to diminish with age. It is often served as an aperitif or paired with desserts, particularly fruit-based desserts and pastries. The wine's sweetness complements the sweetness in the food, creating a harmonious pairing.
While Asti Spumante shares some similarities with champagne, such as its effervescence and celebratory nature, it is important to distinguish between the two. Champagne is produced using specific grapes (Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier) and follows strict production regulations. Asti Spumante, on the other hand, is made primarily from Moscato Bianco grapes and follows its own production methods.
Asti Spumante is a sparkling white wine that is produced in the Piedmont region of Italy. It is not considered a champagne, as it does not meet the specific criteria set for champagne production. Asti Spumante is known for its fruity and floral flavors, with a natural sweetness balanced by high acidity. It is a delightful and refreshing sparkling wine that can be enjoyed on its own or paired with various desserts.