Prosecco DOC, a symbol of celebration, is crafted through a meticulous winemaking process. It begins with Glera grapes (and Pinot Noir for Rosé), which are gently pressed and clarified at low temperatures. For Rosé, Pinot Noir undergoes maceration to extract color and character. Fermentation follows, with selected yeasts converting sugars into alcohol over 15–20 days at 18°C. After filtration, still versions are bottled, while sparkling styles undergo a second fermentation in autoclaves—lasting at least 30 days for standard Prosecco and 60 for Rosé. Overseen by Valoritalia, strict quality controls ensure every bottle reflects Prosecco DOC’s authenticity and Italian craftsmanship.

Introduction

• Prosecco DOC: Iconic sparkling wine known for its celebratory nature.
• Focus on the meticulous winemaking process behind each bottle.

Grape Preparation

• Grapes Used: Primarily Glera for Prosecco; Pinot Noir for Rosé.
• Separation: White Glera grapes are separated from their stalks.
• Pressing: Gentle pressing of grapes to extract juice.
• Clarification: Juice settles and clarifies at low temperatures.

Rosé Production

• Maceration: Pinot Noir juice undergoes maceration to absorb color and character from grape skins.

Fermentation Process

• Initiation: Clear juice undergoes fermentation.
• Yeast Addition: Selected yeasts convert sugars into alcohol at 18°C for 15-20 days.

Post-Fermentation

• Filtration: Wine is filtered to remove leftover yeast, ensuring clarity.
• Tranquillo Version: This process is crucial for still Prosecco.

Second Fermentation

• Types: For Frizzante, Spumante, and Rosé Spumante.
• Tank Fermentation: Occurs in large tanks called autoclaves.
• Duration:
  • At least 30 days for standard Prosecco.
  • Minimum 60 days for Rosé.
• Outcome: Creates signature effervescence, balancing sweetness and acidity.

Quality Control

• Valoritalia: Official control body responsible for quality assurance.
• Verification: Documentation and chemical/sensory analyses conducted before bottling.
• Ensures adherence to strict production specifications for authenticity.

Bottling and Aging

• After certification, Prosecco DOC is bottled, labeled, and undergoes a brief aging period.
• Ready to be enjoyed, reflecting Italian craftsmanship.

Conclusion

• Prosecco DOC’s journey from grape to glass involves careful techniques and quality control, ensuring a delightful sparkling wine experience.