The difference between Prosecco and Prosecco DOC lies in their origins and quality designations. Prosecco is a name that has been historically used to refer to a sparkling wine produced in the Veneto region of Italy. It was also known as Glera in the Friuli Venezia Giulia region.
In 2009, there was a significant change in the wine industry when several Prosecco-producing IGTs (Indicazione Geografica Tipica) in Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia were merged to establish a new and higher-quality denomination called Prosecco DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata). This change aimed to regulate and improve the production and quality standards of Prosecco wines.
The creation of Prosecco DOC meant that the wine had to meet specific criteria to carry this designation. This included using grapes from specific regions within Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia, such as Conegliano and Valdobbiadene. Prosecco DOC also introduced stricter regulations regarding vineyard practices, grape varieties, and winemaking techniques.
One of the key differences between Prosecco and Prosecco DOC is the level of quality assurance. Prosecco DOC ensures that the wine is produced following specific guidelines, which guarantees a certain level of quality and consistency. On the other hand, Prosecco without the DOC designation does not have these same strict regulations, so the quality may vary more.
Another difference lies in the specific grape variety used. Prosecco wines are primarily made from the Glera grape variety, which was historically known as Prosecco. However, Prosecco DOC also allows the inclusion of other local grape varieties, such as Verdiso, Bianchetta Trevigiana, Perera, and Glera Lunga, in small proportions. This can add complexity and diversity to the Prosecco DOC wines.
Furthermore, Prosecco DOC wines are often considered to be of higher quality compared to non-DOC Prosecco. The stricter regulations in place for Prosecco DOC ensure that the grapes are grown in designated areas and that specific winemaking techniques are followed. This can result in wines with more distinct flavors, finer bubbles, and a higher overall quality.
In my personal experience as a sommelier, I have found that Prosecco DOC wines tend to be more consistent and reliable in terms of quality. They often exhibit a crisp and refreshing character with vibrant fruit flavors and a delicate effervescence. Non-DOC Prosecco, while still enjoyable, can sometimes lack the same level of refinement and consistency.
To summarize, the main difference between Prosecco and Prosecco DOC lies in their quality designations and the regulations governing their production. Prosecco DOC wines adhere to stricter guidelines and are typically considered to be of higher quality. They are made from specific grape varieties and grown in designated regions, resulting in wines with more defined flavors and a higher level of consistency.