Let’s start with the basics shall we? The most important and easy to understand difference between prosecco and champagne is the regions in which they are made. Champagne is a French product and only bottles produced in the ‘Champagne’ region of France can officially be labelled with the name ‘Champagne’. Prosecco on the other hand, is made in a region of Italy, near Trieste.
The two drinks may look similar when poured into a glass. However, they are made with different grapes; Champagne being made from either Chardonnay, Pinot Noir or Pinot Meunier grapes, whereas Prosecco is made from from Glera grapes.
One of the more obvious differences between the two is the price. However, this is mainly due to how the two drinks are produced. Champagne is produced in smaller containers and also changes containers during different steps. During the fermentation stage, prosecco tends to be stored in tanks, therefore allowing producers to make more from one batch which, in turn, helps reduce the final price.
Another key difference between the two products is indeed the taste. As previously mentioned, they are made from different grapes which instantly has an effect on taste. Champagne grapes tend to have a citrus, white peach tone, whereas prosecco tends to have notes of apple or pear.
However, it’s not just the grapes that produce the different tastes; the way the two are produced has an overall effect on the final flavour. Champagne is left to age for longer, which ultimately makes the taste resemble cheese rinds. And as Prosecco is aged in larger tanks, the pressure on the liquid is reduced, giving it an overall lighter and more fruity flavour.
When deciding between the two, if you are not restricted by budget, it is worth trying both to see which you prefer as, although prosecco has been labelled ‘the poor mans champagne’, it is really an entirely different drink. Many don’t like champagne as it can be too dry or intense, and vice versa, some don’t like prosecco as it can be too sweet. Once you know what you prefer, it is then worth sampling a range within that specific drink as there can be significant differences within the same drink.
If you can’t decide between either, fear not, as here at Neptune Bars we stock both Champagne and Prosecco for your guests to enjoy! Contact us to enquire about prices.