What is the difference between Champagne and Prosecco? Why does Champagne cost so much more than Prosecco, Cava, Lambrusco, and other sparkling wines? What is the Traditional Method / Méthode Champenoise / Méthode traditionelle / Champagne Method / Metodo Classico and how is it different from other sparkling wine processes, such as Charmat?
In Episode 31 of The Inside Wine Podcast – “Every Sparkling Wine Explained”, Winemaker Alessandro Medici of Medici Ermete winery in Emilia-Romagna, Italy, explains every type of sparkling wine and how each is made — from Champagne to Pet-Nat and everything in between. He is an expert on this subject because — surprise! — he makes Lambrusco in every style discussed.
Among other things, you’ll learn what the following terms mean:
- Pét-nat / Pétillant Naturel / Méthode Ancestrale / Ancestral Method / Metodo Ancestrale
- Liqueur de Tirage
- Dosage (including “Zero Dosage”)
- Bars (or “Atmospheres”)
- Disgorgement
- Frizzante
- Spumante
- Dry (Brut) vs. Extra Dry (you may be surprised what that means)
Additionally, you’ll find out why the “tank” method of making sparkling wine is named after Mr. Charmat instead of the inventor of the process, Mr. Martinotti.
Finally, if you listen all the way to the end, you’ll be rewarded with a special code that can be applied for a discount in the Wine365 Boutique.
