Which wine to use in the spritz

The spritz has become an incredibly popular cocktail in recent years. Originating in Italy, it is a refreshing and bubbly drink that is perfect for warm weather and can be enjoyed at any time of the day. One of the key ingredients in a spritz is wine, but the question remains, which wine should you use?

Traditionally, the spritz is made with Prosecco, a sparkling wine from the Veneto region in Italy. Prosecco has a light and fruity flavor with a touch of sweetness, making it the perfect base for a spritz. It also has a good amount of acidity, which balances out the sweetness of the other ingredients in the cocktail.

Prosecco is widely available and relatively affordable, making it a popular choice for making spritzes at home. However, there are other wines that can be used to make this delightful cocktail, each bringing its own unique qualities to the mix.

One alternative to Prosecco is Cava, a Spanish sparkling wine. Cava is made using the same method as Champagne, resulting in a wine with fine bubbles and a creamy texture. It has a slightly drier flavor profile compared to Prosecco, with hints of citrus and stone fruit. Using Cava in a spritz will give it a more elegant and sophisticated touch.

For those who prefer a sweeter spritz, Moscato d’Asti is an excellent choice. Moscato d’Asti is a sweet, sparkling wine from the Piedmont region in Italy. It has intense floral and fruity aromas, with flavors of ripe peaches, orange blossoms, and honey. The sweetness of this wine pairs beautifully with the bitterness of the other ingredients in a spritz, creating a perfectly balanced and refreshing drink.

If you prefer a more traditional approach but want to try something different, you can opt for a different type of Prosecco. Prosecco Superiore is a higher quality version of Prosecco that comes from vineyards in the hills of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene. It has a more pronounced aromatic profile, with flavors of green apple, pear, and white flowers. Using Prosecco Superiore in your spritz will elevate the taste and make it even more enjoyable.

Lastly, we have Champagne, the king of all sparkling wines. While Champagne is typically reserved for special occasions, using it in a spritz can take this simple cocktail to a whole new level. Champagne has a complex flavor profile with notes of citrus, brioche, and toasted almonds. Its fine bubbles and crisp acidity make it an excellent choice for those who want to make a truly luxurious spritz.

In conclusion, there are several wines that can be used to make a spritz, each bringing its own unique qualities to the cocktail. Whether you prefer a classic Prosecco, a drier Cava, a sweeter Moscato d’Asti, a higher quality Prosecco Superiore, or even Champagne, the choice is ultimately up to your personal taste and preference. So, next time you’re in the mood for a spritz, feel free to experiment with different wines and discover your perfect combination. Cheers!