FRA_GG_N46-WEB

ITALY
– NEW APPELLATION –
In actual fact, many Prosecco companies were already
producing the pink version with considerable success,
even without stating the name ‘Prosecco’ on the
label. For this very reason, the Consortium decided to
regulate the production of rosé, thereby enhancing its
quality and recognisability, with positive effects on the
perception of the region and the other types of Prosecco.
Rosé production conditions require that only Glera (85 -
90%) and Pinot noir (10 - 15%) grapes be used, fermented
as red wine. Also, on the label the term ‘Millesimato’ is
mandatory, followed by the reference vintage of at least
85% of the grapes. Initially, the indigenous Raboso grape
(in Veneto) and Refosco (in Friuli) were considered for
the blend.
The production area matches that for DOC Prosecco,
which is located in north-eastern Italy and more
specifically in 5 provinces in Veneto (Treviso, Venice,
Vicenza, Padua, Belluno) and 4 in Friuli Venezia Giulia
(Gorizia, Pordenone, Trieste and Udine). When the grape
harvest, winemaking process and bottling take place
entirely in the provinces of Treviso and Trieste, the special
statement of Treviso or Trieste may be used to emphasise
the historical value of the two provinces.
The rosé version must be produced entirely by natural
fermentation in autoclaves with a winemaking period
of at least 60 days. During this period, the yeast can
release compounds such as mannoproteins, which have
positive effects on colour and effervescence and increase
sensory and taste complexity. The colour is a pale pink
which varies in intensity, glistens and displays consistent
bubbles. The aroma is fine, characteristic and typical of
the original grapes. Alcohol content must be at least 11%
vol. and minimum total acidity is 4.5 g/l, with a minimum
non-reducing extract of 14.0 g/l.
In its first year of production, rosé Prosecco was a
resounding success. In just 9 months, 54.2 million bottles
were produced out of a total 425.5 million of DOC
Prosecco. Its current share of 13% of total production
underscores the relevance of the project and demonstrates
the growing trend worldwide for rosé wines.
Here, we review a selection of the most significant Prosecco
wineries to demonstrate the growth of the rosé category.
Prosecco Rosé offers great versatility in terms
of food and wine pairing, something which
Cantina La Marca seeks to capitalise on
Perfect clusters of Glera grapes grown by one of the 400 members of the
Montelliana winery
WINTER 2021 GILBERT & GAILLARD - THE FRENCH EXPERTS ON WINE 101