Prosecco On Tap: The Truth About Putting It On Draught

Prosecco on tap is a trend that has been gaining popularity in recent years. The convenience of having a steady flow of bubbly at events and parties without the hassle of opening multiple bottles has made it a hit among hosts and guests alike.

The process of putting prosecco on tap is thought to be similar to that of beer or wine. The carbonated wine is stored in a keg and served through a tap system. However, through first-hand experience. I've come to find that serving Prosecco on draught isn't sustainable and I'll explain why below.

Understanding Prosecco

Prosecco is a type of sparkling wine produced mainly in Italy's Veneto region. It is made from the Glera grape variety, which has been grown in the region for hundreds of years. Prosecco is known for its light, refreshing taste and its effervescence, which comes from the carbon dioxide that is produced during the fermentation process of white wine.

Prosecco is made using the Charmat method, which is also known as the tank method. This involves fermenting the wine in a large, pressurized tank, which allows the carbon dioxide to dissolve into the wine and create the bubbles that are characteristic of sparkling wines.

Prosecco is classified according to its level of sweetness, with the driest wines being labeled as brut and the sweetest as doux. Other classifications include extra brut, brut nature, extra dry, and dry.

The quality of Prosecco is regulated by the Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC) and the Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOCG) systems. These systems ensure that the wine is produced according to strict guidelines and that it meets certain quality standards.

While Prosecco is often served as an aperitif, it can also be paired with a variety of foods. Its light, refreshing taste makes it a good match for seafood, salads, and light pasta dishes. It can also be used in cocktails, such as the Bellini and the Aperol Spritz.

Overall, Prosecco is a versatile and enjoyable sparkling wine that is enjoyed by wine lovers around the country and the world.

Comparing Prosecco to Other Wines

Prosecco is a type of sparkling wine that is gaining popularity around the world. Compared to other wines, Prosecco has a lower alcohol content, typically ranging from 10.5% to 12.5% . This lower alcohol content contributes to Prosecco's light and refreshing character, making it an excellent choice for casual occasions or as an aperitif.

When compared to Champagne, Prosecco has a lower price point and a less complex flavor profile. Champagne also undergoes a secondary fermentation in the bottle, which gives it a more complex flavor profile and a creamier texture.

Overall, Prosecco is an excellent choice for those looking for a refreshing and affordable sparkling wine. While it may not have the complexity of Champagne or other sparkling wines, it is an excellent choice for casual occasions and pairs well with a variety of dishes.

The Problem of Serving Prosecco on Draught

• Carbonation Challenges: Maintaining the right carbonation levels in a tap system is tricky. It can lead to Prosecco being either too flat or overly fizzy, which affects the quality and enjoyment.
• Sustainability Concerns: Tap systems require constant maintenance and energy to keep the wine at the right temperature and pressure, making them resource-intensive.
• Quality Inconsistencies: The fluctuating carbonation levels and potential for improper storage can compromise the authentic taste and experience that consumers expect from bottled Prosecco.
• Resource-Intensive Maintenance: Regular upkeep is needed to ensure the tap system functions correctly, adding to the overall effort and cost.
• Recommendation for Bottles: Due to these challenges, serving Prosecco from a bottle is often preferred to ensure a consistent and high-quality experience.

Prosecco Served From A Bottle

When it comes to serving Prosecco, many purists argue that the traditional method of pouring from a bottle offers a superior experience compared to draught systems. Here are some reasons why serving Prosecco from individual bottles might be considered better:

• Preservation of Authenticity: Real Prosecco is traditionally bottled, allowing it to undergo secondary fermentation in the bottle. This process is believed to enhance the complexity and quality of the flavors, something that is often compromised in tap systems.
• Controlled Carbonation: Bottled Prosecco is sealed with a cork, which helps maintain the ideal carbonation levels. This ensures that the bubbles are perfectly light and delicate, enhancing the drinking experience.
• Quality Assurance: Bottled Prosecco is regulated by DOC and DOCG standards, ensuring that each bottle meets specific quality criteria. This guarantees a consistent taste and experience, whereas tap systems may not always adhere to these standards.
• Aesthetic Appeal: Serving Prosecco from a bottle can elevate the drinking experience with its presentation. The ritual of popping a cork and pouring from a traditional glass bottle adds a touch of elegance and celebration.
• Flavors and Aromas: Bottled Prosecco is often perceived to have more nuanced flavors and aromas, as the traditional bottling process allows the wine to develop its character over time

Summary

The truth is it's very challenging to dispense Prosecco properly and maintain the body. This is coming from someone who has tried to dispense it from draught over and over. Ultimately, I would recommend pouring Prosecco from a bottle.

Bottled Prosecco also benefits from controlled carbonation, quality assurance through DOC and DOCG standards, and an elegant presentation. The traditional bottle continues to offer a superior experience for those seeking the full spectrum of Prosecco's flavors and aromas.

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