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What is the Difference Between Prosecco and Sparkling Rosé

Aphrodise in flute glasses
Picking the perfect bubbly has you presented with all kinds of options, but they largely fall into three categories: champagne, sparkling wine, and prosecco.

In this article, we’ll be focusing on sparkling wine (and therefore sparkling rosé) and how it differs from prosecco.
Both are extremely popular refreshments; we’re here to help you distinguish the two. So, what’s the difference between sparkling wine and prosecco?

Field of crops

The origin 

Prosecco originates from the Veneto and Friuli-Venezia Giulia regions of Italy; in fact, prosecco can only be so called if it comes from this north-east area of Italy. Sparkling wine, on the other hand, can be made from grapes grown in a number of regions. This includes Greek regions such as Macedonia, where you’ll find the Xinomavro grape; this is the noble grape we use to make our celebrated Aphrodise.

Grapes being harvested to create Aphrodise

The grapes

In order for prosecco to be called prosecco, it not only needs to come from the Veneto and Friuli-Venezia Giulia regions of northeast Italy, but it also should be made from a wine blend that contains at least 85% Glera grapes. These are white grapes, previously called Prosecco themselves until their name was changed to Glera to make the prosecco name more synonymous with the region itself.

Sparkling wine, however, can be made up of a variety of different grape blends. Grapes commonly used for sparkling wine include pinot noir, chardonnay, and pinot meunier, which can grow in a number of locations across Europe.

Waiter pouring glass of Aphrodise
Champagne flute with raspberry

The production method

Prosecco is produced using the charmat method, which sees the all-important second fermentation of the base wine happen in a tank; the yeast and sugar creates carbon dioxide, and therefore small bubbles, within a tank environment.

Sparkling wine and sparkling rosé can also be made this way, but there is flexibility to use the traditional method, too. Used to create champagne, the traditional method means that the second fermentation happens inside the bottle, as opposed to on a large scale within a tank.

Friends enjoying Aphrodise on board a yacht

The occasion

Prosecco is generally associated with special occasions; it’s rarely a go-to for a light daytime refreshment. However, it is also a great choice for cocktails, providing that much needed fizz alongside stronger flavors like Aperol.

Sparkling wine is a little more versatile; not only can it be used to toast and celebrate, but it can also complement more casual get-togethers, as well as pairing well with a variety of cuisines depending on its flavor profile.

Two glasses of Aphrodise next to the bottle, on a sandy beach

Choose Aphrodise sparkling rosé

If you’re yet to discover the magic of Greek sparkling rosé, we invite you to do so with Aphrodise. Perfect not only for celebrations, but on the beach, around the pool, with dinner, or even out on the open seas, it’s an easy-drinking sparkling rosé with plenty of fruity flavor.

Decanter World Wine Bronze award 2024
Editors Top Pick Winner 2024 Wine & Spirits