How to Choose the Perfect Prosecco: Expert Tips and Top Bottles to Try
Prosecco has become one of the world's most popular sparkling wines — and for good reason. Light, fruity, and made to be enjoyed, it suits everything from a quiet Friday evening to a proper celebration. Here is how to find the best bottle for you.
What Makes Prosecco Different
Prosecco comes from northeastern Italy, primarily from the Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia regions, made from the Glera grape. What sets it apart from Champagne or Cava is its production method — the Charmat or tank method, where the secondary fermentation that creates the bubbles takes place in large pressurised steel tanks rather than in individual bottles. This preserves the fresh, fruity aromas that prosecco is known for: apple, pear, white peach, and a delicate floral note.
DOC and DOCG: What the Labels Mean
Prosecco is classified as either DOC or DOCG. DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) covers a wider production area and represents the more widely available, everyday style — not inferior, just broader in scope. DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) is more exclusive, coming from specific hillside areas such as Conegliano Valdobbiadene with stricter regulations and tighter quality controls. The sweetness levels run from Brut (the driest, with very little residual sugar) through Extra Dry (slightly sweeter, and counterintuitively the most common style) to Dry (noticeably fruitier, with the most residual sugar of the three).
Our Top Bottles
Veneto, Italy — Prosecco DOC
A reliably excellent everyday prosecco. Clean, crisp, with delicate bubbles and soft aromas of green apple and pear. Extra Dry sweetness level — just enough fruitiness to be approachable, with a refreshing finish. An ideal bottle for Friday evenings or larger gatherings.
Order now →Veneto, Italy — Prosecco DOC
A step up in elegance, with a striking jewel-like bottle that makes it a natural choice for gifting. On the nose, delightful floral and citrus notes; on the palate, hints of apple and white peach with a clean, refreshing finish. Extra Dry and beautifully balanced — wonderful with light starters, seafood, or on its own.
Order now →A Few Things to Keep in Mind
For a special occasion, it is worth seeking out a DOCG prosecco for a more refined experience. For casual drinking or larger gatherings, a well-made DOC prosecco like Botter or Brilla! will deliver excellent value. Prosecco pairs beautifully with light bites, seafood, or fresh salads — its lively acidity cuts through richness and its fruity character complements delicate flavours. Always serve well chilled, around 6–8°C: the bubbles will be livelier and the flavours more expressive.