The name is actually Slovenian, from prozek, or “path through the woods,” so it makes sense that a glass here and there helps us negotiate the challenges of life! A dry, lighter style of sparkling wine that originated in the village of Prosecco in northern Italy, it is made from the grape Glera and was grown in Ancient Rome.
It’s interesting to learn that Australia makes exceptional quality Prosecco. “And yes, we are allowed to call it that but it may be a different story in the future,” says Kirsten Dickie from Magnum + Queens Wine. “Look for areas like King Valley and Adelaide Hills.”
The style is perfect for entertaining so we asked Kirsten for her insider hints and tips for new ways to enjoy this people pleaser.
1. Take care to choose a good Prosecco
“If buying Italian look out for 'DOCG',” Kirsten advises. “This means the Prosecco has come from an area in Italy called Conegliano Valdobbiadene. It's in the north-east, and famed for its quality. Whilst the others can still be exceptional quality this can be a good gage if you are unsure.”
2. Pimp your party snacks
“Prosecco is typically paired with traditional Italian antipasti and other light snacks,” says Kirsten, but don’t stick to the same offering every time – take the lead from your local cocktail bar and go the extra mile with bar snacks. Toast your nuts and add spices for more depth of flavour, or “try some fried stuffed olives at your next dinner party,” Kirsten suggests.
3. Use it in a cocktail
“Delicious served chilled as an aperitif, Prosecco also lends itself incredibly well to a wide range of cocktails,” Kirsten suggests. “Classics such as Bellini, Aperol Spritz or sgroppino are always fun.”
4. Serve it with your entrée
As it’s only moderate in alcohol volume, served straight, you could drink Prosecco all day! It works beautifully with food however so beyond pre-dinner nibbles, try it with oysters or a more substantial grazing platter for entrée.
5. Try something a little different
“Try Col Fondo – which literally translates in Italian to “with the bottom”,” Kirsten suggests. “It is less sweet and, unlike Prosecco which is made with the charmat method, Col Fondo has it’s secondary fermentation in the bottle. It’s cloudy a little funky and a whole lot of fun to drink!”
Prosecco Cheat Sheet
Glass: Whilst you can serve in other glasses the flute is the top pick
Temperature: Serve chilled between 12 – 14 degrees
Opening: Remove the foil from the wire cage that surrounds the cork. When popping the cork do this slowly; it avoids potential injuries from flying corks and lets the pressure in the bottle gently force out the cork.
Serving: Don’t tilt your glass. Pour on an angle and allow to hit the side of the glass. It’s better for the taste, bubbles and aroma.
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During March, in honour of International Women’s Day Magnum + Queens subscription pack is Ladies of the Vine, celebrating leading female winemakers. For every new Queens Club subscription beginning in March, M+Q will donate $10 to Share the Dignity, a women’s charity that makes a real difference to homeless women and victims of domestic violence. For each individual purchase of the Ladies of the Vine pack, Magnum + Queens will also donate $5.
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