Prosecco vs Champagne: the difference between these sparkling wines

When it comes to sparkling wines, two names stand out above the rest: Prosecco and Champagne. These two bubbly beverages are often found gracing celebrations and adding a touch of elegance to gatherings. While they may both offer delightful effervescence, Prosecco and Champagne have distinct characteristics that set them apart. Whether you’re a wine enthusiast or simply curious about these famous sparklers, this guide will help you understand the main differences between Prosecco vs Champagne, from their origins to their production processes, flavor profiles, and more.

Prosecco vs Champagne: Where Do They Come From?

The story of these sparkling wines starts with geography. Both Prosecco and Champagne are named after the regions from which they originate, and this location is central to their identity.

• Prosecco: Prosecco hails from the northeast of Italy, primarily from the Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia regions. The name “Prosecco” is derived from a village near Trieste, where the grape variety Glera has been grown for centuries. Its production is deeply tied to this region, particularly in the cool, hilly climate of the Prosecco Hills between the towns of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene.
• Champagne: Champagne, on the other hand, is from the Champagne region in northeastern France. This cool-climate area provides the perfect environment for growing the three main grapes used in Champagne: Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier. By law, only sparkling wine produced in this specific region and using specific methods can be labeled as Champagne.

Prosecco vs Champagne: Which Grapes Are Used?

Another key difference between Prosecco vs Champagne lies in the grapes used to make them.

• Prosecco: It is primarily made from the Glera grape, which gives it a light, fruity, and floral character. Though Glera is the dominant grape, winemakers are allowed to blend up to 15% of other grape varieties, such as Verdiso, Perera, and Bianchetta, to add complexity. There are several different types of Prosecco, each with its own unique characteristics. The two most important categories are Prosecco DOC and Prosecco Superiore DOCG. The first one is the most common type and is produced in a broader area that includes the flatlands surrounding the Prosecco Hills, while the latter is the top-tier classification and is reserved for wines produced in the Prosecco Hills. Within the DOCG classification, there are additional subcategories, including Cartizze, which comes from a specific area known for producing some of the finest Prosecco in the world.
• Champagne: It is typically a blend of three grapes: Chardonnay (a white grape), Pinot Noir, and Pinot Meunier (both red grapes). Each of these grapes brings something unique to the wine. Chardonnay adds elegance and citrus notes, Pinot Noir contributes structure and berry flavors, while Pinot Meunier adds fruitiness and approachability.

Production Methods: How Are They Made?

The methods used to produce Prosecco and Champagne are among the most significant differences between the two sparkling wines.

• Prosecco: Prosecco is made using the “Charmat method” (also called the tank method). In this process, the wine undergoes its second fermentation in large stainless-steel tanks, rather than in the bottle. This method is quicker and less labor-intensive than the traditional method used for Champagne, resulting in a more affordable wine. The Charmat method also preserves the fresh and fruity flavors of the Glera grape, giving Prosecco its characteristic lightness.
• Champagne: It is made using the “Traditional method” (Méthode Champenoise or Méthode Traditionnelle), where the second fermentation occurs in the bottle. This process is more time-consuming and requires a great deal of precision. After the second fermentation, the wine ages on its lees (yeast sediment) for at least 15 months, but often much longer. This aging process contributes to the complexity, richness, and toasty flavors that Champagne is known for. Once the aging is complete, the wine undergoes a process called riddling, where bottles are gradually tilted and rotated to collect sediment in the neck of the bottle, followed by disgorgement, where the sediment is removed.

Prosecco vs Champagne: Flavor Profiles

When it comes to taste, Prosecco and Champagne offer distinctly different flavor experiences.

• Prosecco: It is known for its light, fresh, and fruity flavor profile. Expect aromas and flavors of green apple, pear, white peach, and melon, along with floral notes like acacia and honeysuckle. Prosecco tends to have a softer, slightly sweeter taste than Champagne, which makes it approachable and easy to enjoy, even for those new to sparkling wine. It’s typically less complex, which adds to its appeal as a casual, everyday bubbly.
• Champagne: Thanks to the traditional method and the aging process, it tends to have a more complex and layered flavor profile. Common tasting notes include citrus (lemon, grapefruit), stone fruits (peach, apricot), and berries (strawberry, raspberry), along with richer, toasty, and nutty flavors like brioche, almond, and hazelnut. The aging on the lees adds depth and texture, often giving Champagne a creamy or buttery mouthfeel. Depending on whether the Champagne is made from more Chardonnay (Blanc de Blancs) or Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier (Blanc de Noirs), the wine can lean toward a more elegant or more robust style.

Levels of Sweetness: Brut, Extra Dry, and Beyond

Both Prosecco and Champagne come in a range of sweetness levels, which are important to consider when choosing a bottle.

Prosecco Sweetness Levels

• Brut: Up to 12 grams of sugar per liter. Prosecco Brut is the driest style, offering a crisp and clean finish.
• Extra Dry: 12-17 grams of sugar per liter. Despite the name, Extra Dry Prosecco is slightly sweeter than Brut and is one of the most popular styles.
• Dry: 17-32 grams of sugar per liter. This style is noticeably sweeter and fruitier, with a softer mouthfeel.

Champagne Sweetness Levels

• Brut Nature: 0-3 grams of sugar per liter. This is the driest Champagne, with no added sugar, resulting in a very crisp and bone-dry taste.
• Extra Brut: 0-6 grams of sugar per liter. Slightly more sugar than Brut Nature but still very dry.
• Brut: Up to 12 grams of sugar per liter. Brut Champagne is the most common style, offering a perfect balance between dryness and fruitiness.
• Extra Dry: 12-17 grams of sugar per liter. As with Prosecco, Extra Dry Champagne is a touch sweeter than Brut.
• Demi-Sec: 32-50 grams of sugar per liter. This is a much sweeter style of Champagne, often enjoyed with desserts.

Price: Why Is Champagne More Expensive?

One of the most noticeable differences between Prosecco vs Champagne is the price. Generally, Champagne is significantly more expensive than Prosecco, not because it’s better but due to a few key factors:

• Production Method: The traditional method used for Champagne is labor-intensive, requires more time, and involves careful handling, all of which increase the cost of production.
• Aging Requirements: Champagne must age on the lees for a minimum of 15 months, with many premium Champagnes aging for several years. This extended aging process not only adds to the complexity of the wine but also raises production costs.
• Reputation: Champagne has long been associated with luxury, prestige, and exclusivity. This reputation allows Champagne producers to charge a premium for their bottles.
• Prosecco’s Affordability: In contrast, Prosecco’s Charmat method is faster and more cost-effective, leading to lower production costs. As a result, Prosecco tends to be more budget-friendly, making it an accessible choice for casual occasions.

Pairing Prosecco and Champagne with Food

Pairing sparkling wine with food can elevate your dining experience, and understanding the different styles of Prosecco vs Champagne can help you make the perfect match.

• Prosecco: The light, fruity, and floral qualities of Prosecco make it an ideal partner for light dishes. It pairs beautifully with appetizers, seafood, and fresh, vibrant dishes like sushi, ceviche, or grilled vegetables. Extra Dry Prosecco, with its touch of sweetness, complements spicy dishes, such as Thai or Indian cuisine, balancing the heat with refreshing bubbles. Its light, refreshing nature makes it an excellent aperitif – Prosecco is also the key ingredient in popular cocktails like the Bellini, Mimosa and Aperol Spritz.
• Champagne: Champagne’s versatility in food pairings is unmatched. Brut Champagne, with its crisp acidity, pairs well with everything from shellfish and oysters to fried foods and creamy cheeses. Blanc de Blancs Champagnes, made from Chardonnay, are elegant and work well with lighter dishes like seafood and salads. On the other hand, a Blanc de Noirs, made from Pinot Noir and Pinot Meunier, offers more structure and can complement heartier dishes like roasted meats or game. Champagne can also be enjoyed with more casual fare like fried chicken or popcorn for an unexpected pairing!

Prosecco vs Champagne: Serving Tips

To fully enjoy the flavors of Prosecco and Champagne, it’s important to serve them properly.

1. Temperature: Both Prosecco and Champagne should be served chilled. The ideal temperature for Prosecco is around 45-48°F (7-9°C), while Champagne is best enjoyed at 47-50°F (8-10°C). Chilling these wines helps preserve their freshness and enhances their bubbles.
2. Glassware: While the traditional flute is a popular choice for serving sparkling wine, many experts now recommend using a white wine glass for both Prosecco and Champagne. The wider bowl allows the wine to open up, enhancing its aromas and flavors.

Prosecco vs Champagne: Conclusion

Prosecco and Champagne are both delightful sparkling wines, but they each offer something unique. Prosecco, with its fresh, fruity character and affordability, is perfect for casual gatherings and everyday enjoyment. Champagne, on the other hand, offers complexity and depth, making it ideal for special occasions and more refined palates.

Ultimately, whether you prefer Prosecco or Champagne comes down to your personal taste and the occasion at hand. With this guide, you now have a clearer understanding of the key differences between these two iconic sparkling wines, helping you choose the perfect bottle for any celebration.