Buzz
Prosecco and champagne may seem alike when you're uncorking a bottle to celebrate the new year. Despite their shared characteristics—both sparkling, European wines typically reserved for celebrations—these two beverages are not interchangeable. Here’s a breakdown of the key differences that separate them.
Though they may appear similar in a glass, champagne and prosecco diverge in their origins, ingredients, and production techniques. According to Liquor.com, prosecco is a sparkling wine from Italy’s Veneto region, made with at least 85 percent glera grapes. Unlike champagne, prosecco is crafted using the Charmat (or tank) method, which creates its bubbles through secondary fermentation in a pressurized vat.
On the other hand, champagne comes exclusively from Champagne, France—hence the name. It is typically made from chardonnay, pinot noir, and pinot meunier grapes and follows the traditional method (or méthode champenoise). The wine undergoes secondary fermentation inside the bottle, rather than a vat, and must age for a minimum of 12 months. During this time, champagne “ages on lees,” a process where the breakdown of dead yeast cells improves its flavor and texture.
Thanks to its aging process, champagne offers a more intricate flavor profile and comes with a higher price tag. On the other hand, prosecco is typically more affordable, with a fruitier and livelier taste. The finest champagnes can mature for decades, whereas most proseccos are best consumed within five years. For those new to sparkling wines, prosecco might be the ideal, light, fruity, and budget-friendly choice, while champagne is a great option for those willing to indulge in a more sophisticated option.
If you're planning to enjoy sparkling wine this New Year’s Eve, here’s how to preserve it without a stopper. Many wines can last for a few days in the fridge once opened, depending on the type of wine.
