We explain the main differences between Prosecco and Franciacorta.

The differences between Prosecco and Franciacorta

The main differences between Prosecco and Franciacorta are 4:

- production method;

- the vines from which the wines are produced;

- production area;

- organoleptic properties and characteristics.

Below, we see these four differences.

Differences between Prosecco and Franciacorta: production method

The first difference between Prosecco and Franciacorta is the production method.

Prosecco is usually produced through the sparkling method called the Martinotti or Charmat method, which involves the natural refermentation of the base wine in large containers or autoclaves (there are also Prosecco sparkling wines produced with the classic method but they are not very common).

Franciacorta is produced exclusively with the sparkling method called Classic or Champenoise method, which involves the refermentation of the base wine in the bottle, with the addition of selected sugars and yeasts. Compared to the Martinotti method, the classic method involves higher production costs.

Differences between Prosecco and Franciacorta: grape varieties

The second difference between Prosecco and Franciacorta concerns the vines from which the wines are made.

Prosecco is obtained from grapes of the Glera vine for at least 85%. Grapes of other vines, specified in the production regulations, can contribute to the production of this sparkling wine, for a maximum of 15%.

Franciacorta is mainly obtained from grapes of the Chardonnay and/or Pinot Noir vines. Grapes of the Pinot Bianco vine can also be used, up to a maximum of 50%,. For the “Rosè” version, the percentage of Pinot Noir grapes must be at least 25% of the total. The use of Pinot Noir grapes is not allowed for the production of Franciacorta Satèn.

Differences between Prosecco and Franciacorta: production area

The third difference between Prosecco and Franciacorta is the geographical area where the grapes are grown and where the wines are produced.

Prosecco is produced in some areas of northeastern Italy. In particular, in the area that goes from Conegliano to Valdobbiadene up to the Asolo hills, in the province of Treviso, where its DOCG are grown. The DOC, on the other hand, can be produced in the area that includes the provinces of Belluno, Gorizia, Padua, Pordenone, Treviso, Trieste, Udine, Venice and Vicenza, in Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia.

Franciacorta is produced in the wine area of the same name, a hilly area located in the province of Brescia, in Lombardia, in central-northern Italy.

Differences between Prosecco and Franciacorta: organoleptic characteristics

Tasting the two types of wines you can understand the different characteristics and organoleptic properties.

Prosecco is characterized by marked floral (white flowers) and fruity notes (apple, pear, exotic fruit and citrus) that express elegance and finesse. The taste is savory, fresh and lively.

Franciacorta has a very fine and persistent perlage. The bouquet of aromas has hints of bread crust and yeast, with notes of citrus and dried fruit (almond, hazelnut, dry white fig) that make its sensory profile very recognizable.

After reading the article, it's time to drink these wines: you can buy Prosecco and Franciacorta directly from our online wine shop.