prosecco-bubbles close up
Christmas Recipe Sips

Prosecco: Versatile & Great for All Occasions

You can enjoy Prosecco, Sparkling Wine and bubbles for well under $20 a bottle.


Red wine, white wine, sparkling wine…  oh my!

Where did sparkling wine come from? What is the difference between them and what is the best? All fair questions when discussing this tasty nectar.  The big three are Champagne, Prosecco and Cava. These are what we are all used to seeing in our favorite wine stores, but what is the difference?

First, the easy and short answer is that sparkling wine can only be called Champagne if it comes from the region of Champagne, France, which is just outside of Paris. To clarify, all Champagne is sparkling wine, but not all sparkling wine is Champagne.

So why do California wines use ‘sparking wine’? Unlike in Europe the US does not have DOC/DO classification for it’s wines and there is no governing body to ensure you get an authentic product. Champagne by French law can only be used for wines produced in that region of France. Therefore fermented or bubbly wines produced in the US must be labeled ‘sparkling wine’.

When people think of Champagne they think expensive. However, between Cava from Spain and Prosecco from Italy you can enjoy sparkling wines and bubbles for well under $20 a bottle.

Champagne, Cava and Prosecco are each produced using different grape varietals. Cava contains a blend of Xarello, Parellada and Macabeo grapes, presenting fresh, zesty, and floral notes. Prosecco is made from Glera, a lighter-bodied grape that offers fragrant, floral aromas. Like all wines and especially Champagne in France its designation is controlled. Prosecco is from the Veneto region of Italy. Brands with DOC/DOCG ensure you are getting a good quality. Cava is from Catalonia, Spain, and brands with DO on the label confirm you are getting an authentic product. 

Prosecco-vineyards
Sunset and fog on the Prosecco vineyards

Cava needs to be aged for at least nine months. The shorter ageing time for Cava typically means that it will be less expensive than Champagne. As both wine types have had yeast added to them, it needs to be left to age so that extra flavors can develop properly. Prosecco, which has not had any additional ingredients added, does not have a minimum aging needed and will taste best the sooner you drink it. It also may be a better option for anyone with a gluten sensitivity.

Quality can be judged at first pour. I have traveled throughout Italy and found that there are two key characteristics one must follow when making your selections. Bubbles and taste! The more bubbles that rise to the top and the length for which you see those bubbles is typically a good indicator of higher quality wines, especially Prosecco.

Prosecco is perfect for any celebration including friendship

It terms of flavor, some sparkling wines are sweet, and some are a bit dry.  If you find a brand you like, stick with it. Prosecco and Cava are both great for mimosas, sangria, and my fave, the Aperol spritz! Pair either with our beautiful cheese board and you have everything you need for socially distant cocktails.

The Aperol Spritz is a refreshing summer drink made with Prosecco

Where to Buy: We like to support our local wine stores. However, many options to be found online and nearly everyone ships across the US subject to local and state liquor laws. These are my top picks at Total Wine & Beverage, Zachy’s, Wine.com and Binny’s Wine Merchants. But nearly all of these options are available nationwide.

Want to add a little more sparkle to the options above try these great cocktail cubes.