A Journey Through Prosecco's Enchanting Hills
Unveiling the Magic of Conegliano Valdobbiadene: A Prosecco Lover's Paradise
Day 1: A Warm Welcome to Prosecco Country
On our drive from the airport, we were immediately struck by the lush, green landscape. The region's famous hills rose in the distance, their slopes so steep it seemed impossible that vineyards could cling to them. Yet, as we would soon discover, these precipitous inclines are key to the unique character of Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG.
Our base for the trip was the elegant Hotel Canon d'Oro in Conegliano. Its central location proved perfect for exploring the region, with the added bonus of being close to some charming local bars – ideal for a nightcap after our daily adventures.
Our introduction to the world of Prosecco began at Ca' Vittoria, a homely winery that immediately made us feel welcome. The tasting here set the tone for our trip, showcasing the versatility and complexity of Prosecco Superiore DOCG.
For dinner, we ventured to Osteria Borgoluce, where we experienced a true farm-to-table meal. The star of the show was their buffalo produce – both the meat and cheese were exquisite. But the highlight for me? A divine buffalo milk cheesecake paired perfectly with a glass of Prosecco. It was a combination I never knew I needed in my life!
“Prosecco DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) represents the highest quality tier of Prosecco, a step above DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata). DOCG is produced in a smaller, historically significant region (Conegliano Valdobbiadene) under stricter regulations, including lower yields and often hand-harvesting. This results in wines with more complexity, depth, and nuanced flavours, truly embodying the finest expression of the region’s terroir and winemaking expertise.”
Day 2: Diving Deep into Prosecco's Terroir
Our second day began with an enlightening presentation at Le Volpere's "casera" (traditional rural building). Here, we delved into the intricacies of the Conegliano Valdobbiadene appellation. I was fascinated to learn about the diverse soil types across the region and the concept of "Rive" – specific hillside vineyards known for producing wines of exceptional quality.
The afternoon took us to Colesel and Ruggeri wineries. At Ruggeri, we focused on Cartizze – the region's crown jewel – and had the rare opportunity to taste some older vintages. It was eye-opening to experience how Prosecco can evolve with age, challenging my preconceptions about the wine.
Day 3: Sustainability and Innovation
The third day of our trip highlighted the perfect balance of tradition and innovation in the region. At Merotto, we were treated to a special presentation in their stylish tasting room. The wines here were truly exceptional, each sip a testament to the skill of the winemakers.
A visit to L'Antica Quercia was a highlight of the trip. Their biodynamic approach to winemaking results in wines of remarkable purity and expression. It was here that I truly began to appreciate the depth and complexity that Prosecco Superiore can achieve.
Day 4: The Future of Prosecco
Our final day brought together many of the themes we'd explored throughout the trip. We met with a group of young winemakers who are bringing fresh energy to the region. Their collaborative spirit and willingness to share knowledge with each other was inspiring. It's clear that the future of Conegliano Valdobbiadene is in capable hands.
The trip concluded with a memorable dinner featuring local cuisine paired with some of my favourite wines from the journey. Many of these were crafted by female winemakers, adding another layer of diversity to this dynamic region.
“A Hidden Gem: Sui Lieviti Prosecco
While every day of our journey brought new discoveries, perhaps the most exciting revelation was encountering the Sui Lieviti style of Prosecco. Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore Sui Lieviti DOCG Brut Nature – it’s quite a mouthful to say, and an even more impressive mouthful to taste!
This surprising, dynamic, and utterly delicious wine style quickly became a highlight of our trip. But what makes it so special?
Sui Lieviti Prosecco starts its life like any other Prosecco, but then takes a dramatic turn:
The second fermentation occurs in individual bottles, rather than in the usual large pressurised tanks (autoclaves).
Crucially, the wine is never disgorged. This means that the fine sediment of spent yeast cells, known as lees, remains in the bottle.
”Sui lieviti” translates to “on the lees,” similar to the French term “sur lie.” This method results in a sparkling wine with added complexity, texture, and often a slight cloudiness that speaks to its artisanal nature.
Tasting Sui Lieviti Prosecco was a revelation. The presence of lees adds depth and a subtle yeasty character that complements the wine’s fruit notes beautifully. It’s a style that truly showcases the innovative spirit of the region’s winemakers, bridging traditional methods with modern palates.
For wine enthusiasts looking to explore the full spectrum of what Prosecco can offer, seeking out a Sui Lieviti bottling is an absolute must. It’s a testament to the diversity and continuous evolution of the Conegliano Valdobbiadene region.”
Reflections on Conegliano Valdobbiadene
As I reflect on my time in Prosecco country, I'm struck by several things:
The sheer beauty of the landscape. The UNESCO-recognised hills are truly breathtaking, their steep slopes a testament to the dedication of the vineyard workers.
The deep sense of history and family. Many wineries have been passed down through generations, each adding their own chapter to the story.
The versatility of Prosecco Superiore. From aperitif to dessert, there's a style for every occasion and dish.
The range of styles produced in the region. From bone-dry to sweet, still to sparkling, the diversity was eye-opening.
My journey through Conegliano Valdobbiadene was more than just a wine tour – it was an immersion into a culture where passion, tradition, and innovation intertwine to create something truly special. Whether you're a Prosecco aficionado or a curious novice, this enchanting corner of Italy promises an unforgettable experience. Cin cin!
For more information about the region and its wines, visit the Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG official website.
