When it comes to celebrating a special occasion, few drinks are as iconic as champagne. But if you’re looking for an affordable sparkling wine option, prosecco may be a better choice.
So which is the best bubbly beverage for your needs? Let’s take a closer look at champagne and prosecco and see what sets them apart.
Champagne vs. Prosecco: What’s the Difference?
Champagne and prosecco are both sparkling wines, but there are some key differences between the two.
For starters, champagne is made from a specific type of grape grown in the Champagne region of France, while prosecco is made from a different type of grape grown in the Veneto region of Italy.
Champagne is also made using a different method than prosecco. Champagne is made using the traditional method ‘Champenoise’, in which the wine undergoes a second fermentation in the bottle.
Prosecco, on the other hand, is made using the ‘Charmat’ method, in which the wine undergoes a second fermentation in a tank.
Region
Though they share some similarities, there are also several important differences between the two. Champagne is a type of sparkling wine that originates from the Champagne region in France.
It is made using a specific method known as the Méthode Champenoise, which involves fermentation of the wine in bottles rather than barrels. This method results in a more complex flavour profile, with notes of yeast, brioche, and citrus fruits.
Production Process
Champagne and prosecco differ in the production process. Champagne is a sparkling wine that is produced by the fermentation of the wine in the presence of yeast.
The yeast consumes the sugar in the grapes and produces carbon dioxide and alcohol. The carbon dioxide is dissolved in the wine, which makes it effervescent.
Prosecco is a sparkling wine that is produced by the fermentation of grape juice. The grape juice is fermented with yeast, which consumes the sugar and produces carbon dioxide and alcohol. The carbon dioxide is not dissolved in the wine, which makes it less effervescent than champagne.
The production process of champagne is more labour intensive than that of prosecco. Champagne requires the use of special presses that are designed to gently extract the juice from the grapes without crushing the seeds.
The production process of Prosecco is less labour intensive than that of champagne. Prosecco is made using a Charmat method, which means that the wine is fermented in large tanks before it is bottled.
Smell and Tasting Notes
Champagne and prosecco are both made using the traditional method of adding bubbles to wine, but they differ in some key ways.
The biggest difference is that champagne is made from pinot noir and chardonnay grapes, while prosecco is made from the glera grape.
This gives each wine a different flavour profile. Champagne is known for its light, refreshing taste and delicate aromas. The most common aromas associated with champagne are citrus, floral, and mineral notes.
Champagne also has higher acidity than prosecco, which gives it a crispness on the palate. Prosecco, on the other hand, is typically sweeter and fruitier than champagne.
The most common aromas associated with prosecco are peach, apricot, and citrus. Because it is made from the glera grape, prosecco also has a lower acidity than champagne.
Price
Despite being more expensive, champagne is not necessarily better than prosecco. It all depends on your personal preferences.
Some people prefer the richer flavour of champagne, while others prefer the lighter flavour of prosecco. Ultimately, it’s up to you to decide which type of sparkling wine you prefer.
Alcohol Content
One of the most notable differences is their alcohol content. Champagne typically has an alcohol content between 12% and 14%, while Prosecco usually has an alcohol content that is lower, around 11%.
This difference in alcohol content can be attributed to the contrasting production methods used for each type of wine. Champagne is made using the traditional method, which includes a second fermentation process that takes place in the bottle.
Prosecco, on the other hand, is made using the tank method, where fermentation takes place in large stainless steel tanks. The lower alcohol content in prosecco makes it a popular choice for drinkers who are looking for a lighter option.
It is also generally less expensive than champagne, which can be another factor that contributes to its popularity.
Champagne and prosecco are both sparkling wines, but there are some key differences. So, which one should you choose for your next celebration? Let’s take a closer look at the two types of wine.
If you’re looking for a celebratory drink that will impress your guests, go with champagne. If you want something more festive and fun, go with prosecco.