Prosecco Spumante Extra Dry DOC Pizzolato Organic

Glera

Since 2010, everything has changed in the sparkling world of Prosecco: the Prosecco grape has been called Glera, and the traditional growing area in Veneto in northern Italy can now claim Prosecco (DOC) as a protected designation of origin. This classic can therefore only be produced in this region under strict conditions. The white grape formerly known as Prosecco grows in the province of Treviso in Veneto. The origin of its former name is uncertain. One theory is that it comes from the village of Prosecco near Trieste, or from a small river. The name certainly has nothing to do with the Italian word ‘secco’, meaning dry. This resemblance is purely coincidental.

Italian chemist and oenologist Antonio Carpenè (1838-1902) is said to have invented the refreshing alcoholic drink. However, Frenchman Eugene Charmat developed the process that enabled large-scale production and international distribution. Sugar and cultured yeasts are added to fully fermented wine in large, pressurised stainless steel tanks, initiating a second fermentation and producing carbon dioxide. The yeast remains in the tank for a while to intensify flavour. The mixture is then cooled, rendering the carbon dioxide inactive and retaining it in the sparkling wine. After filtration, Italy's export favourite is ready for bottling, also regulated since 2010. Only green or brown glass bottles may be used; filling into cans is prohibited.

Prosecco is made from at least 85% Glera grapes, formerly called Prosecco grapes. Champagne, for example, is vinified from three varieties: Pinot Noir, Chardonnay and Pinot Meunier.

Prosecco ‘Spumante’ is Prosecco with a high level of carbon dioxide resulting from a second fermentation in a tank or bottle. In Germany, it is sold as sparkling wine and is subject to sparkling wine tax. ‘Prosecco Frizzante’, by contrast, can also be produced from still wine to which carbon dioxide is added under high pressure and cooling. This Prosecco is classified as semi-sparkling wine, is not subject to sparkling wine tax and is therefore usually somewhat cheaper. Wine made from Glera grapes within the Prosecco area can also be called Prosecco, but with the addition of ‘spento’ or ‘tranquilo’.

A delicate apple bouquet on the nose; fresh, supple and harmonious on the palate.

Cantina Pizzolato

Settimo Pizzolato is Italian: you not only hear it, you feel it too. He radiates that lightness and zest for life so characteristic of Italians. Settimo runs the family business in the fifth generation. Its own 58 hectares of vineyards have been under certified organic cultivation since 1985, and organic grapes from neighbouring friends are also made into wine at the cantina. The hilly Treviso landscape is ideally suited to viticulture. In recent years, investment has therefore gone not only into the vineyards but above all into modernising the cellar. The results speak, or rather taste, for themselves. Alongside sound country wines offering good value, Cantina Pizzolato produces specialities from Prosecco, Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Merlot, Cabernet, Raboso and Pinot Nero grapes. Many thanks!