Prosecco, a sparkling gem of Italy, has undergone a remarkable transformation over the years.
Known primarily as a white fizz crafted predominantly from the Glera grape, Prosecco also offers intriguing rosé variations and even the rare still wine. While these alternatives are relatively uncommon, they highlight the diversity within this beloved category.
Gone are the days when Prosecco was dismissed as a saccharine indulgence. Thanks to advancements in viticulture and production, it has emerged as a refined and versatile option. Today, Prosecco is equally at home as a fun cocktail ingredient—think Bellinis—or as a standalone indulgence, earning its place among the world’s most celebrated sparkling wines.
Prosecco's Appeal
While Champagne often takes center stage during the festive season, Prosecco is the perfect companion for the weeks leading up to the celebrations. Affordable, light, and delightfully crafted, it caters to a wide array of preferences, making it a crowd-pleaser. Whether served with food, as a sundowner, or at a party, Prosecco embodies conviviality.
This approachable charm, paired with its increasing sophistication, ensures Prosecco remains a staple for wine lovers. Its affordability is another advantage; unlike Champagne, Prosecco delivers exceptional quality without the hefty price tag.
The Best of Prosecco in 2024 by Wine-Searcher
Wine-Searcher recently released its rankings of the best Proseccos based on aggregated critic scores. Below are the top performers, blending exceptional taste with impressive value:
| Wine Name | Score | Average Price (USD) |
|---|---|---|
| Nino Franco Vigneto della Riva di San Floriano Superiore | 92 | 19 |
| Nino Franco Nodi | 92 | 21 |
| Adriano Adami Vigneto Giardino Rive di Colbertaldo Dry | 91 | 21 |
| Ca' dei Zago Dosaggio Zero | 91 | 31 |
| Adriano Adami Col Credas Rive di Farra di Soligo Brut | 90 | 20 |
| Ruggeri Vecchie Viti Brut | 90 | 24 |
| Nani Rizzi Millesimato Extra Brut Prosecco DOCG | 92 | 14 |
| Nino Franco Primo Franco | 90 | 16 |
| Bianca Vigna Rive di Soligo Brut | 91 | 25 |
| Col Vetoraz Prosecco di Valdobbiadene Cartizze DOCG | 90 | 28 |
A Closer Look at the Top Performers
Nino Franco: The Pioneer of Modern Prosecco
Leading the pack, Nino Franco's Vigneto della Riva di San Floriano Superiore boasts a critic score of 92 and an affordable price of USD 19. Described as having tropical fruit notes with hints of hazelnut and blood orange, it reflects the estate’s dedication to elevating Prosecco on the global stage.
Another standout from Nino Franco is Nodi Extra Brut, priced at USD 21. With its smoky, citrus, and floral nuances, this wine embodies elegance and balance, making it perfect for those who prefer a drier sparkling wine.
Adriano Adami: Guardians of Tradition
Adriano Adami’s Vigneto Giardino Rive di Colbertaldo Dry celebrates its heritage as one of the first single-vineyard Proseccos. Priced at USD 21, it features vibrant notes of acacia, citrus, and Fuji apple, showcasing the estate’s commitment to sustainability and quality.
Other Notable Mentions
The Ca' dei Zago Dosaggio Zero stands out for its use of traditional methods, offering bone-dry, savory characteristics for USD 31. Meanwhile, Ruggeri Vecchie Viti Brut highlights old-vine richness, blending hawthorn, pear, and green melon aromas at USD 24.
Why Prosecco Deserves Your Attention
Prosecco continues to impress with wines scoring consistently above 90 points, all while maintaining prices below USD 31. This remarkable value is unparalleled, especially when compared to Champagne, whose equivalents often exceed USD 200.
As the holiday season approaches, Prosecco offers an opportunity to enjoy high-quality bubbles without breaking the bank. Whether you're hosting a party, enjoying a casual evening, or crafting creative cocktails, Prosecco is the perfect choice.
Source: Wine-Searcher