Prosecco and Prosecco Superiore are both sparkling wines made from the Glera grape variety in the Veneto region of Italy. However, there are some key differences between the two.
1. Production Area:
– Prosecco: Prosecco can be produced in a larger area, including nine provinces in Veneto and four provinces in Friuli Venezia Giulia.
– Prosecco Superiore: Prosecco Superiore is produced exclusively in the hilly area between the towns of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene in Veneto. This limited production area is known for its unique microclimate and ideal vineyard conditions.
2. Quality Designations:
– Prosecco: Prosecco is classified as a Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC) wine, which sets certain production standards but allows for a larger production area and more lenient regulations.
– Prosecco Superiore: Prosecco Superiore has a higher quality designation as a Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOCG) wine. This designation signifies stricter production regulations and a smaller, more prestigious production area.
3. Grape Sourcing:
– Prosecco: Prosecco can be made with grapes sourced from various areas within the larger production zone. This allows for more flexibility in grape selection.
– Prosecco Superiore: Prosecco Superiore must be made with grapes exclusively sourced from the designated Conegliano-Valdobbiadene area. This ensures a higher level of quality and consistency in the wines.
4. Aging Requirements:
– Prosecco: Prosecco is typically produced using the Charmat method, where the secondary fermentation (which creates the bubbles) takes place in large tanks. It is meant to be enjoyed young and fresh, with vibrant fruit flavors.
– Prosecco Superiore: Prosecco Superiore often undergoes longer aging on the lees, which adds complexity and depth to the wine. Some Prosecco Superiore wines may also be made using the traditional method, with secondary fermentation in the bottle.
5. Taste Profile:
– Prosecco: Prosecco is known for its light, crisp, and refreshing style, with flavors of green apple, pear, and citrus. It has a delicate mousse and a slightly sweet finish.
– Prosecco Superiore: Prosecco Superiore tends to have a more complex and concentrated flavor profile. It exhibits aromas of jasmine, honeysuckle, grapefruit rind, yellow apple, ripe pear, and almond. The mousse is often creamier, and the finish can be drier and more elegant.
Prosecco Superiore is a higher quality and more refined version of Prosecco. It is produced in a smaller, prestigious area and undergoes stricter regulations regarding grape sourcing and production methods. The result is a sparkling wine with greater complexity and concentration of flavors.