On August 13th each year, we come together to bask in the enjoyment of the ever-popular sparkling white wine from Italy’s Veneto region, as we celebrate National Prosecco Day. This day is an occasion tailor-made for Prosecco connoisseurs, providing the ideal chance to savor and appreciate this sparkling gem of a beverage. Revered for its refreshing lightness and versatility, Prosecco is more than just an effervescent delight and truly deserves its moment of glory.
National Prosecco Day, thus, invites lovers of this exquisite drink to join globe-wide festivities, treasuring the joy of Prosecco in all its vibrant variety – as a complement to a sumptuous meal, a key ingredient in a preferred cocktail, or simply as an effervescent treat savored by itself.
History of National Prosecco Day
National Prosecco Day takes place every year on the 13th of August. It’s a day set aside to honor the cherished Italian bubbly, Prosecco. This sparkling wine has distinguished itself for not just its delightful taste, but also for its versatility in pairing with a vast range of meals.
The story of Prosecco can be traced back to the Veneto region in Northeast Italy, with the wine adopting its name from the neighboring village of Prosecco near Trieste. Some historical records imply that the wine’s roots might reach back to Roman times when it was known as “Pucino.” According to these accounts, Prosecco was a favorite of the goddess Venus, the Roman deity of love, beauty, and fertility. This made the wine hugely popular for celebrations of love and joy.
National Prosecco Day has proven to be an invaluable marketing tool for bars, restaurants, and vineyards, contributing to the heightened popularity of the wine. Social media has made a substantial contribution in promoting National Prosecco Day, enabling wine lovers to share their festivities and expand awareness about this effervescent aromatic white wine.
Celebrations extend beyond simply enjoying a glass or two – some people throw wine-tasting events, experiment with Prosecco food pairings, or even voyage all the way to Italy to visit the vineyards where Prosecco is produced. This day isn’t exclusively about the beverage, but it also embraces the richness of Italian culture, history, and the expert skill that goes into creating this delightful drink.
National Prosecco Day Timeline
Prosecco Grapes First cultivated
The Glera grape, used to produce Prosecco, was first cultivated by the Romans in the Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia regions of North-Eastern Italy.
Describing Prosecco
Italian poet Aureliano Acanti wrote of 'la dolce vita' meaning the 'sweet life', including drinking Prosecco.
Sparkling Prosecco
The first sparkling version of Prosecco was produced. While still primarily a still wine at this stage, the effervescent variety began to gain popularity.
Denomination of Controlled Origin
The Italian government granted Prosecco the status of Denominazione di origine controllata (DOC), controlling its production standards and zone.
Prosecco Superiore
Prosecco Superiore was given the status of Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOCG), the highest recognition for quality Italian wines.
Sales Boom
Prosecco saw a boom in sales as it became increasingly popular globally. It even overtook Champagne in terms of bottles sold annually.
Modern-Day Prosecco
Prosecco continues to enjoy international popularity, with the Prosecco DOC Consortium promoting the heritage, quality, and diversity of the wine.
Ideas to Celebrate National Prosecco Day
Summer Prosecco Picnic
Gather your friends for an outdoor picnic complete with Prosecco-themed snacks. Enjoy the sunshine and toast to National Prosecco Day with your favorite summer eats infused with Prosecco or plated alongside a cool glass.
Prosecco Tasting Party
Host a Prosecco tasting party at your home. Encourage guests to bring a bottle of Prosecco from a different region or producer for everyone to sample and enjoy. This can be a fun and interactive way to celebrate the day.
DIY Prosecco Cocktails
Try your hand at mixing some Prosecco-based cocktails. There are tons of online recipes from Bellinis to Prosecco margaritas. Share pictures of your concoctions on social media using the hashtag #NationalProseccoDay.
Visit a Winery or Wine Bar
If you live near a winery or a wine bar, schedule a visit. Many establishments may have special activities or offers for National Prosecco Day. Enjoy learning more about the process of making Prosecco firsthand.
Food and Prosecco Pairing
Some foods pair exceptionally well with Prosecco. To celebrate National Prosecco Day, research these pairings and try them out. It can be anything from a specific kind of cheese, seafood, or dessert.
Prosecco and Movie Night
Keep it simple but special with a Prosecco and movie night at home. Choose your favorite films, pop some popcorn, and enjoy with a glass, or two, of Prosecco.
7 Interesting Facts About Prosecco
Origin of Prosecco
Prosecco is originally from the Veneto region in Northeast Italy, within the territories of nine provinces.
Glera Grapes
Prosecco is made from predominantly Glera grapes, which have been grown in the region for hundreds of years.
Prosecco's Popularity
Prosecco has surpassed Champagne in global sales, making it the world's best selling sparkling wine.
Three Styles
Prosecco is produced in three styles: spumante (sparkling), frizzante (semi-sparkling), and tranquillo (still).
Less Caloric
Prosecco is generally less caloric than other wines, with a standard glass containing around 80 calories.
Prosecco Superiore
Prosecco that's labeled as 'Superiore DOCG' means it’s of the highest quality.
Pairing Prosecco
Prosecco pairs well with a variety of foods due to its light, bubbly nature. It's often served with seafood, cheeses, and fruit desserts.
National Prosecco Day FAQs
Next National Prosecco Day Dates
| Year | Date | Day |
|---|---|---|
| 2023 | August 13th | Sunday |
| 2024 | August 13th | Tuesday |
| 2025 | August 13th | Wednesday |
| 2026 | August 13th | Thursday |
| 2027 | August 13th | Friday |
| What is the pattern? | Every August 13th | |
National Prosecco Day Word Search
- Prosecco
- Italy
- Vineyard
- Bubbles
- Sparkling
- Cheers