story and photos by Military in Germany reader, Krystal White

Forty miles north of Venice, there is a land where more than 180 Prosecco producers create this popular beverage.

The tiny glera grape, which is used to produce the soft and fruity flavor of Prosecco (a sweet, alcoholic beverage similar to champagne), flourishes particularly well in a vineyard called Cartidte. Recently, a member of the Zardetto family personally demonstrated the spirit of this tiny grape. Bottling only 5000 bottles a year from this vineyard, the result is a spicy, citrus, sparkling wine with herb notes.

Prosecco originates from this small area of Italy and is produced with a method known as the Charmat method.  Rather than force a secondary fermentation in individual bottles (like in the production of champagne), this method uses large stainless steel autoclaves that are computerized to keep the winder under a specific amount of pressure.

The Charmat method maintains the intention to retain the “fresh fruit” undertone that can often be overwhelmed by yeast.

The town of Conegliano boats more than 20 lovely vintners and the prestige of founding the first royal wine school of Italy. Every August 1st, male inhabitants drink a glass of prosecco in the morning for good luck.

Zardetto Prosecco is popular with Americans with over 40 percent of the production being shipped overseas.

Prosecco is a non-vintage wine, meaning, it is produced to be consumed within a year of release.  Be aware that Germany taxes authentic Prosecco but not its cousin, frizzante. Check the label to make sure you are tasting the real thing.

Try the drink and discover the land by clicking here:
http://zardettoProsecco.com/sito/en/conegliano_veneto_zardetto.php?id_cat=9