“The short and easy answer when it comes to the difference between sparkling wines is simple. Wine can only be called Champagne if it comes from the region of Champagne, France, whereas Prosecco is a sparkling wine mostly made in the Veneto region, Italy. Therefore, the simple difference is Champagne growers consider Champagne a “wine of place” that cannot be reproduced anywhere else in the world. However, the method by which each wine is made differs significantly. The Charmat method used for Prosecco involves single fermentation in tank, flowed by a pressurised bottling. By contrast, Champagne is fermented twice with the secondary fermentation conducted in bottle with the addition of yeast and solids that provide the bubbles.”

How does the ‘Charmat’ process affect the taste and texture of Prosecco?

“Prosecco and Champagne are both made using the formula yeast + sugar = alcohol + carbon dioxide. Prosecco is made through a method called Charmat, where bubbles are achieved en masse via large stainless steel tanks during fermentation. The wine is then bottled by a special bottling line in a pressurised environment. This process slightly differs to how Champagne is made as Champagne bubbles are achieved through a second fermentation in the bottle. Prosecco is more affordable, as the Charmat method is applied to the alcohol en mass and not one bottle at a time. Yet, it still results in a simple, light and delicate flavour.”

Why do you think the popularity of Prosecco has increased in Australia recently?

“Australia actually has a very similar culture to Italy. Both countries enjoy socialising and relaxing with friends and family around food and drink. Therefore, Prosecco is also the perfect beverage in the Australian summer when people want a light and refreshing drink they can enjoy with friends. Prosecco, due to the simpler fermentation method, is also significantly more affordable than Champagne, thus allowing for more regular consumption.”

What makes Prosecco the perfect summer beverage?

“Prosecco is very light on the palette and the bubbles make it an ideal and versatile drink which can be a key element of refreshing summer cocktails. It offers fruity, flowery aromas which makes it the perfect accompaniment to the summer season, and a perfect Aperitif-style drink. ”