What is the difference between Prosecco and Champagne?
Sparkling wine can make any occasion extra special, but the differences between Prosecco and Champagne can be confusing. So what sets Prosecco and Champagne apart? We will dive into some basic differences between the two sparkling wines.
Where are Prosecco and Champagne Produced?
One of the main differences between Prosecco and Champagne is where the wines are produced. Prosecco is made in Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia, Italy (near Venice). Champagne, on the other hand, is made in the region of Champagne-Ardenne, situated northeast of Paris.
The production process: Prosecco vs. Champagne
Prosecco and Champagne are made differently. The main differences in the production process between Prosecco and Champagne are the grapes and how the wines become bubbly.
Prosecco and Champagne use different grape types. This is key because the type of grapes can impact how the wine tastes, smells, and alcohol levels. Prosecco must use 85% Glera grapes, and the remaining 15% can use Verdiso, Bianchetta Trevigiana, Perera, Glera Lunga, Chardonnay, Pinot Bianco, Pinot Grigio, and Pinot Nero. Champagnes can blend these seven grapes: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier, Pinot Blanc, Pinot Gris, Petit Meslier, and Arbane.
The process for creating the bubbles for Prosecco and Champagne is also different. With Prosecco, the process that creates bubbles typically occurs in large stainless steel tanks. With Champagne, the bubbles are created when the wine is already in the bottle. Champagne bubbles take longer to develop and the wine ages longer than Prosecco.
Do Prosecco and Champagne Taste Differently?
It depends. Each wine is different. Typically, what you can expect from Prosecco is something fresh; you may notice different flavors and scents, such as fruity (like apple) or floral. The Prosecco bubbles tend to be gentle.
Champagne also often has fruity and floral tastes/scents. Additionally, Champagne can taste nutty, yeasty (think of baking bread), or even have some saltiness. Champagne bubbles tend to be more persistent vs. Prosecco bubbles.
