Prosecco is often perceived as Champagne’s cheerful cousin (its main point of difference is that it uses a less labour-intensive method to produce its “bubbles” and is best consumed fresh) and while it may come at a more affordable price point, it is by no means a poor man’s Champagne. In fact, production in its native region of Veneto in northeast Italy is serious business. Like Champagne, only wines that have been produced inside the region and according to strict guidelines can be labelled as Prosecco. The wines are further divided into 2 main appellations: DOC and DOCG. Ever wondered what this meant when you saw this seal on a bottle on Prosecco?

Think of it as a pyramid, where Prosecco DOC is located at the base, representing a geographical region from which the glera grape (the key variety used in Prosecco) originated and has been producing the wine for centuries. DOCG is the next tier up on the pyramid, and represents a region in Treviso located between the small towns of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene, known for their steep hillsides and distinct microclimates on which they grow their vines. Finally, there’s a third, premium tier called Cartizze, which is akin to Champagne’s Grand Cru and is produced in a single vineyard area 1000 feet up on the hills of Cartizze.

Prosecco vineyards near Villa Sandi ”“ Photo ”“ By Paul Barbera

With all this effort to improve the production of Prosecco, it has gained in popularity overseas. However, as much as an Aperol Spritz has become a ubiquitous summer drink, there is something very special about drinking Prosecco in its place of origin. So if you plan to visit the wonderful town of Treviso, here are 3 ways to best experience Prosecco in its natural habitat:

1. Visit the cool surrounds of the Cloakroom Cocktail Lab

Here you’ll find Samuele Ambrosi behind the bar. A world champion mixologist, who has worked in some of the world’s best hotels, Samuele is like a wizard, conjuring new and inventive concoctions. His cocktails are visually stunning and perfectly refreshing. You’ll never look at a Bellini in the same way again.

https://www.facebook.com/pages/Cloakroom-Cocktail-Lab/259461904203683

Piazza Monte Pietá 4
31100 Treviso, Italy

Samuele Ambrosi mixing Bellini’s at the Cloakroom Cocktail Club ”“ Photo: By Paul Barbera

2. Enjoy a tasting and tour the cellars at Villa Sandi

Located in Valdobbiadene, a 30-minute drive from Treviso, the grounds of Villa Sandi are a sight to behold, with a Palladian-style estate that dates back to 1622. Once you’ve sat down to a tasting of sparkling Proseccos with the knowledgeable and passionate staff, wrap yourself in a blanket as you head down to tour the cool labyrinth of cellars located beneath the Villa. Look out for the friendly family Labrador who may just come up to you for a pat.

http://www.villasandi.it/

Via Erizzo, 112/B, 31035 Crocetta del Montello TV, Italy
+39 0423 665033

Villa Sandi’s Exterior ”“ Photo: By Paul Barbera

Villa Sandi’s Cellar ”“ Photo: By Paul Barbera

Villa Sandi’s playful Labrador ”“ Photo: By Paul Barbera

3. Stay the night at Locanda Sandi and enjoy a rustic meal

Book yourself a stay at Locanda Sandi, which is also owned by Villa Sandi and experience a rustic getaway that will give you a taste for life in the Italian countryside. Sit on the back porch and sip a glass of Prosecco as you watch the sun go down. The restaurant serves up a delicious grill of meat, cooked over coals as well as fresh pasta and polenta. There are only six rooms at the Locanda, all individually decorated in simple Italian style, which makes the stay feel like an intimate bed and breakfast that’s run with the professionalism of a hotel.

http://www.villasandi.it/index.php/page/id/9/locanda-sandi.html

Via Erizzo, 112/B, 31035 Crocetta del Montello TV, Italy
+39 0423 665033

Locanda Sandi’s exterior ”“ Photo: By Paul Barbera

Grilled meat for dinner at Locanda Sandi ”“ Photo: By Paul Barbera

Queenie is Melting Butter’s NYC-based correspondent hailing all the way from Melbourne Australia. A true culture vulture, Queenie’s writing has appeared on sites like Portable.tv but for Melting Butter, she’ll be exploring her thirst for all things travel and food related. Join her on her hunt for the best cheap, authentic eats in NYC’s Chinatown!Read about Queenie’s favorite hotspots here

(Feature Image: Bellini mixed by Sameule Ambrosi ”“ Photo: by Paul Barbera)

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