Why Asolo Prosecco Superiore DOCG Stands Above the Rest
Asolo Prosecco Superiore DOCG is one of the two Prosecco appellations of controlled and guaranteed origin, together with Conegliano Valdobbiadene. This refined sparkling wine originates in the picturesque hilly territory of Asolo, in the province of Treviso, an area where viticulture and nature come together in a perfect union. With the recognition of the DOCG in 2009, Asolo Prosecco stands out for its freshness, the fineness of its perlage and its ability to express its bond with a unique terroir.
The Basics
- Denomination: Asolo Prosecco Superiore DOCG.
- Main grape variety: Glera (minimum 85%), with the possibility of using other authorised native or international varieties, such as Verdiso, Bianchetta Trevigiana and Perera.
- Production area: The hills around the municipality of Asolo and 16 other neighbouring municipalities in the province of Treviso, Veneto.
- Average altitude of vineyards: Between 100 and 300 metres above sea level.
- Soil: Predominantly marly and clayey, with good drainage capacity.
- Climate: Temperate Mediterranean, with temperature ranges between day and night that favour the development of aromas.
History and Tradition
Viticulture in Asolo has ancient roots, dating back to Roman times, when wine was already an important trade product for the area. During the Middle Ages, monasteries played a crucial role in keeping the winemaking tradition alive, and during the Renaissance, Asolo became a cultural and artistic centre, helping to raise the reputation of its wines. With the recognition of DOCG in 2009, Asolo Prosecco consolidated its role as one of the most prestigious Proseccos, differentiating itself by producing drier versions, such as Extra Brut.
Wine Characteristics
Asolo Prosecco Superiore DOCG is distinguished by its elegance and versatility. On the nose it offers a bouquet of white flowers, green apple, pear and citrus notes, with a slight hint of almond on the finish. The palate is fresh, balanced and with a pleasant acidity. The perlage is fine and persistent, contributing to a light and lively sensation. The different types (Extra Brut, Brut, Extra Dry and Dry) make it suitable for a wide range of palates and occasions.
Production Area
The production area of Asolo Prosecco Superiore DOCG is limited to the hills surrounding the municipality of Asolo and 16 other municipalities in the province of Treviso. This hilly area, characterised by marly and clayey soils, offers ideal pedoclimatic conditions for the cultivation of Glera. The altitude between 100 and 300 metres above sea level ensures good sun exposure and constant ventilation, while the temperature range between day and night favours the development of complex aromas in the grapes.
Pairings
Asolo Prosecco Superiore DOCG is incredibly versatile and lends itself to a wide range of gastronomic pairings. Its freshness and fruity notes make it perfect with fish hors d’oeuvres such as prawn ceviche or sea bass carpaccio, while its elegance pairs beautifully with Asian dishes such as steamed ravioli with prawns or lightly spiced pad thai. Among cheeses, it beautifully accompanies the creaminess of burrata pugliese, the delicacy of French chèvre and the light smokiness of scamorza. For bolder palates, it can be paired with a green chicken curry or herb risotto.
Curiosity
Asolo Prosecco Superiore DOCG was the first in the Prosecco scene to introduce the Extra Brut type, with a residual sugar content of less than 6 g/l, responding to the demands of a market increasingly oriented towards dry and complex sparkling wines. In addition, some producers are rediscovering the tradition of Prosecco Col Fondo, a bottle-fermented, unfiltered wine that retains yeast and offers greater aromatic complexity and a pleasant rusticity.
Wineries to Try
- Bele Casel: A small artisanal producer that stands out for its Prosecco Col Fondo, a traditional and authentic version.
- Case Paolin: A family-run winery that produces elegant and well-balanced Proseccos, ideal for any occasion.
- Tenuta Amadio: Famous for its Extra Brut Proseccos, which best express the dry and refined character of Asolo Prosecco Superiore DOCG.
- Montelliana: A cooperative that combines tradition and innovation, with a complete range of Prosecchi of different sweetnesses. Industrial but precise wines.
- Villa Sandi: One of the best known wineries in the area, famous for its Prosecco Superiore Brut Millesimato. Industrial wines, nevertheless drinkable, at least for the Spritz.
