Prosecco outsells Champagne in 2013

Prosecco outsold Champagne in 2013 by 307 million bottles to 304 million bottles, according to figures released by OVSE, the Italian wine observatory.

Champagne is the most famous, revered and imitated of all sparkling wines so has Prosecco replaced Champagne as the world’s favourite sparkling wine?

Sparkling wine is no longer just enjoyed at times of celebration but increasingly drunk in everyday social situations.

Prosecco is a lighter wine than Champagne and in general terms is better drunk young, it is also a cheaper alternative.

Prosecco and Champagne are made from different grapes and different production methods.

Champagne is made from grapes grown in the Champagne region of France, mainly from three types of grape: Pinot Noir, Pinot Meunier and Chardonnay and produced with the traditional method, méthode champenoise.

Prosecco is made from Glera grapes grown in north east Italy and produced with the Charmat method. A shorter and less expensive process to making a sparkling wine than méthode champenoise.

So whether you prefer Prosecco or Champagne, Enjoy!