Greetings, sparkling wine enthusiasts!
I find myself strolling along Woolloomooloo wharf in the vibrant city of Sydney, ready to embark on a journey of effervescence and discovery.
Otto’s Restaurant, an elegant culinary haven, plays host to an elegant gastronomical event partnering with the distinguished wine expert Tyson Stelzer.
And the star of the show?
The exquisite Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore Sparkling Wine
As we gather in anticipation, I am once again reminded of the passion, mystique and grandeur that is starting to surround this alluring Italian sparkling wine.
While Prosecco is enjoyed worldwide, Conegliano Valdobbiadene sets itself apart with its unique terroir, elevating it to an altogether higher level of complexity and refinement.
Where is the Prosecco region in Italy?
First and foremost, let’s talk about Prosecco. Prosecco encompasses the regions of Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia (near Venice and Trieste) mainly around Conegliano and Valdobbiadene, in the hills north of Treviso.
Valdobbiadene, the capital of Prosecco Superiore, is set among hills that are now a Unesco World Heritage Site . Prosecco is the Italian single-fermentation sparkling wine made under the charmat method, which is produced from these regions.
Decanter describes the wine:
“It is predominantly made from Glera grapes, formerly known also as Prosecco, but other grape varieties such as Bianchetta Trevigiana may be included.
Decanter Magazine- Prosecco Producers areas and the Veneto/Venice Map
It tends to be quite fruity and flowery and as the wines are produced in large tanks with less pressure, the bubbles are light.
Finer versions wines often exhibit notes of tropical fruits, banana cream, hazelnut, vanilla and honeycomb. It is a wedding toast favourite!….
Freshness and ripeness are both requirements for making quality Prosecco, and so the best drier styles originate from sites at higher elevations with greater day-night temperature variations, sometimes on more calcareous soils..”
Unveiling the Subtle Gems of Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore.
Tyson Stelzer, a renowned authority on all things sparkling, sets the stage for the afternoon, guiding us through the intricate dance of flavours that originate from different areas within the Conegliano Valdobbiadene region.
He reveals how these distinct landscapes contribute to varying experiences of fruit and sugar in the finished Proseccos, making each sip a delightful adventure for the palate.
Featuring Prosecco from each of the following revered regions:
Bortolomiol, Bortolotti, Col Vetoraz, Collalto, L’Antica Quercia, Le Bertole, Le Colture,
Mongarda, Perlage, San Venanzio Fortunato, Sanfeletto, Spagnol and Villa Sandi
The vineyards of Conegliano Valdobbiadene sprawl across picturesque hills, a canvas of diverse soils, sun exposure, and microclimates.
Each subzone boasts its distinct charm, cultivating grapes that bear the signature of their origin
Let us delve into the magic of this enchanting land, where Prosecco’s story begins.
Conegliano: Elegance and Finesse
Nestled amidst rolling hills, Conegliano is the heart of the Prosecco region. The wines born here embrace elegance and finesse, capturing the essence of the Glera grape with subtlety and grace. The moderate climate and mineral-rich soils impart a vibrant acidity to the grapes, lending a refreshing zest to the final Prosecco. One sip, and you’re enveloped in a dance of green apple, pear, and citrus notes, gracefully balanced with a gentle touch of sweetness.
Valdobbiadene: Complexity and Structure
Moving further north, we find Valdobbiadene, a land blessed with steep slopes and a cooler climate. These conditions demand meticulous care from the growers, who hand-tend each vine to perfection. The result? Proseccos that embrace complexity and structure. The fruit here ripens slowly, developing a symphony of flavors—white peach, apricot, and hints of floral undertones—complemented by a well-defined mineral backbone. This remarkable interplay of fruit and acidity showcases the undeniable charm of Valdobbiadene.
Cartizze: Opulence and Intensity
Last but not least, we explore the crown jewel of the region—Cartizze. This tiny subzone, characterized by its unparalleled exposure and unique microclimate, produces Proseccos of unrivaled opulence and intensity. The steep vineyards bask in the sun’s warm embrace, nurturing grapes that exude richness and depth. On the palate, you are greeted with ripe stone fruits, honeyed nuances, and a delightful creaminess that lingers, leaving a lasting impression of sheer luxury.
As Tyson steps us through this enchanting journey, I can’t help but pick-up on the dedication of the winemakers who tend to these vineyards with love and expertise, each contributing their touch to the final masterpiece. As many of you know, I regard the passion with which many Australian Sparkling Wine makers bring to their craft, and I am starting to notice this level of commitment is similarly clearly articulated inside these particular wines of Conegliono Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore.
The secret to Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore’s allure lies in its subtle differences—a testament to the region’s diversity.
Whether you prefer the delicate elegance of Conegliano, the captivating complexity of Valdobbiadene, or the luxurious opulence of Cartizze, each expression showcases its own uniqueness.
In conclusion, I encourage you to raise a glass to the enchanting world of Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore.
As we savoured each meticulously crafted wine, varying from surprisingly dry (for Prosecco) to interestingly well-balanced wine of high residual sugar (22-32gm/ltr) we were transported to the breath-taking landscape of Northern Italy, where tradition, passion, and terroir converge to create liquid poetry.
Next time you seek a sparkling experience that tantalises the senses and ignites the imagination, remember Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore—worthy of your interest, worthy of your admiration, and worthy of celebration.
Cheers!