Out of all the Italian wines, Prosecco (along with Chianti) is an emblem of tradition, in particular of the Veneto tradition. Its lively perlage and fresh, fruity flavour are unbeatable for toasts, celebrations and convivial occasions. But behind each glass is an ancient history, a unique landscape and an oenological culture rooted in the fertile and gentle soil of the Veneto hills.
The hills and the history of Prosecco
The history of Prosecco began centuries ago, in the rolling hills between Conegliano and Valdobbiadene in the heart of the Veneto region. Viticulture in this area has been ongoing since the Roman era and is an activity that has been refined day on day, year on year. The Glera grape variety, the basis of Prosecco, has been central to the tradition, adapting perfectly to the unique qualities of the territory.
The Prosecco hills are much more than a panoramic setting: it is a landscape that has been shaped by a balanced relationship between man and nature, the result of centuries of work that has shaped the land, transforming it into a mosaic of vineyards, villages, and paths. In 1969, the ‘DOC’ designation of controlled origin was a milestone that enhanced the identity of this wine, while the superior designation DOCG of Conegliano-Valdobbiadene consecrated Prosecco as a product of absolute excellence. It is also recognition of its history of resilience, Prosecco has survived wars, economic crises and natural disasters, and the importance of life’s pleasures.
A UNESCO World Heritage Landscape
As of 2019, the Prosecco hills of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene are officially recognised as a UNESCO World Heritage Site for the uniqueness and perfection of a landscape that is a harmonious combination of natural beauty and human intervention. Rows of vines colour the slopes, while villages, medieval parish churches and farmhouses enchant the observer who can only stand open-mouthed, overwhelmed by such a stunning array of vistas.
A characteristic feature of this territory are the ‘ciglioni’, grassy terraces created to favour the cultivation of vines. This technique, developed over centuries, not only gives the landscape its unique character but also protects biodiversity, creating a complex and sustainable ecosystem. When you travel along the Prosecco Roads, you are immersed in a world of silence, scents and vistas. Each curve of the road opens a new perspective, it is the closest thing to travelling inside a painting.
Finally, the landscape of the Prosecco hills are an excellent example of sustainable land management. Local producers work according to specifications that are as much about wine quality as they are about nature.
The world’s favourite Italian wine
Prosecco is irresistible for its lightness, versatility and freshness. It comes in spumante, sparkling wine and still versions and is appreciated and prized for its fruity and floral notes, making it perfect for aperitifs, appetisers and light dishes. Its distinguishing features include a low-alcohol content and fine, persistent perlage, the result of the Charmat-Martinotti method used in its production.
Among the most renowned are Prosecco Superiore DOCGs from Conegliano-Valdobbiadene and the Cartizze: a selection of exceptional quality produced in a limited area of just 107 hectares. Cartizze is the flagship for Prosecco; it has an aromatic complexity that combines notes of apple, pear and citrus fruits with hints of almond and honey.
Over 600 million bottles of Prosecco are produced each year, making it Italy’s biggest wine export, bringing to the world the conviviality of the Italian lifestyle. It is consumed in more than 100 countries and has managed to conquer an ever-increasing audience thanks to its ability to adapt to more or less formal occasions without losing its identity.
Wineries for tasting and buying
There is no better way to fully appreciate Prosecco than by visiting the wineries where it is produced surrounded by the hills that have made it famous. The Prosecco Road, which winds between Conegliano and Valdobbiadene, is studded with historic and modern wineries ready to welcome visitors with guided tastings and impassioned stories.
Don’t miss the Cantina Nino Franco winery, one of the oldest in the area, which combines tradition and innovation to create wines of exceptional elegance. The Cantina Col Vetoraz is another superb winery that offers distinctive wines from its hilltop location with breathtaking views. For those seeking a more complete experience, the Cantina Bisol 1542 winery in the heart of Cartizze offers exclusive tours that delve into the origins into the Prosecco Superiore. Or are you in search of a more refined, natural and, in its own way, traditional product? Then you must try the ‘sur lie’ and bottle-fermented wines like those produced by the excellent Gregoletto winery in Premaor and Coste Piane winery in Santo Stefano di Valdobbiadene.
Many wineries will also sell you their wines on site, guaranteeing freshness and authenticity. But there’s so much more to a visit. It’s an opportunity to learn about the histories of the families who have made Prosecco a legend and discover the secrets of a product that combines passion, technique and a love of the land.
