national-prosecco-day-august-13

National Prosecco Day August 13

Have you ever sipped on a glass of Prosecco and pondered over its bubbly history? This Italian white wine, hailing from the picturesque Veneto region, isn't just a recent fad. Its roots dig deep, intertwining with centuries of tradition, innovation, and a touch of vineyard science. From its humble beginnings in the Prosecco area near Trieste to becoming a global sensation, this sparkling gem's journey is as fascinating as its taste. Imagine, centuries ago, Roman connoisseurs possibly toasting to their successes with an ancestor of today's Prosecco. Fast forward to the late 19th century, when the devastating Phylloxera epidemic reshaped viticulture, leading to the dominance of the Glera grape in Prosecco production. This twist of fate, coupled with a strategic push in the 1960s and 70s, catapulted Prosecco from a Champagne alternative to a star in its own right. With the establishment of Prosecco DOC and Prosecco Superiore DOCG in 2009, this effervescent wine finally received the recognition it deserved, setting the stage for National Prosecco Day celebrations every August 13. So, let's raise our glasses to a wine that has not only stood the test of time but has sparkled its way through history.

Key Takeaway

Prosecco is an Italian white wine that has been produced in the Veneto region for centuries, with its origins dating back to Roman times.
It gained popularity in the 1960s and 1970s and was officially recognized as a distinct wine appellation in 2009 with the establishment of the Prosecco DOC and Prosecco Superiore DOCG regulations.

Timeline

1754
First documented mention of Prosecco
Prosecco is first mentioned in documents from the region near Trieste, Italy.
1868
Foundation of the first Prosecco school
The first school dedicated to the production of Prosecco is founded in Conegliano, Italy.
1969
DOC recognition
Prosecco receives Denominazione di Origine Controllata (DOC) recognition, a classification for Italian wines.
2009
DOCG recognition
Prosecco Superiore Conegliano Valdobbiadene receives Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita (DOCG) recognition, the highest classification for Italian wines.
2019
Record Prosecco production
Italian authorities announce a record production of 607 million bottles of Prosecco in 2019.
2020
National Prosecco Day established
August 13 is officially declared National Prosecco Day in the United States.

Day Activities

  1. Morning Vineyard Tours: Kick off National Prosecco Day with a sunrise stroll through lush vineyards. Visitors get the chance to learn about the meticulous care of Glera grapes, essential for Prosecco's signature sparkle. This hands-on experience offers a peek into the winemaking process, from grape to glass.

  2. Prosecco Tasting Sessions: As the day heats up, cool down with guided tasting sessions. Experts will lead you through the nuances of Prosecco, from the crisp, fruity notes to the fine bubbles that dance on your tongue. It's a perfect opportunity to discover your favorite among the various styles, from Brut to Demi-sec.

  3. Evening Prosecco Pairing Dinners: Cap off the celebration with a gourmet dinner under the stars, where each course is paired with a carefully selected Prosecco. Chefs and sommeliers collaborate to create pairings that enhance both the food and wine, providing a culinary journey that highlights the versatility and elegance of Prosecco.

Interesting Facts

1. Ancient Roots

Prosecco's history dates back to Roman times, showcasing its deep cultural heritage.

2. Grape Evolution

The Glera grape, pivotal for Prosecco, gained prominence after the 19th-century Phylloxera crisis.

3. Popularity Boom

In the 60s and 70s, Prosecco soared in popularity, thanks to Italian government promotion.

4. Official Recognition

Prosecco received its DOC and DOCG statuses in 2009, cementing its quality and reputation.

5. Celebratory Day

National Prosecco Day, started in 2014, honors this beloved sparkling wine every August 13.

Why We Love This Day

  • Celebrating Italian Heritage
    Who doesn't love a good reason to toast to the rich cultural tapestry of Italy? National Prosecco Day on August 13 does just that, shining a spotlight on a gem from the northern Italian region of Veneto. This day isn't just about sipping on bubbly; it's a deep dive into centuries of winemaking tradition and the Italian knack for creating something truly special from the earth's bounty. As folks clink glasses, they're not just enjoying a drink; they're partaking in a legacy that stretches back to Roman times, making every sip a connection to history.

  • Promoting Wine Education
    Let's be honest, any day that encourages learning more about wine is a winner in our book. National Prosecco Day isn't just an excuse to pop a bottle; it's an open invitation to explore the nuances of wine production, grape varieties, and the importance of appellation regulations. For enthusiasts and novices alike, this day serves as a reminder that wine is more than just a beverage; it's a craft, honed over centuries, that reflects the character of its origin. Through tastings, pairings, and perhaps a vineyard tour or two, everyone gets a chance to elevate their understanding and appreciation of Prosecco.

  • Fostering Community and Celebration
    In a world that often moves too fast, National Prosecco Day hits the pause button, encouraging folks to gather, celebrate, and make memories. Whether it's a backyard barbecue, a fancy dinner, or a simple toast with friends, this day is about the joy of connection over a glass of sparkling Prosecco. It's a reminder that celebrations don't need to be reserved for the big moments; sometimes, the simple act of sharing a drink and a laugh is celebration enough. So, here's to friendships, to laughter, and to those impromptu moments that end up meaning the most. Cheers!

Past & Future Dates

Month Day Year
AUGUST 13 2022
AUGUST 13 2023
AUGUST 13 2024
AUGUST 13 2025
AUGUST 13 2026
AUGUST 13 2027
AUGUST 13 2028

FAQ

Is there a Prosecco Day on August 13?

National Prosecco Day on August 13th represents a time to raise a toast to the remaining days of the season. As we bask in the warmth of the resounding rays of summer, the day encourages people across the US to embrace life's everyday celebrations.

How to celebrate National Prosecco Day?

To celebrate National Prosecco Day, consider hosting a Prosecco-themed party, trying out new Prosecco cocktails, or visiting a wine bar to sample different varieties. It's a great day to explore the versatility of this sparkling wine and enjoy its refreshing qualities.

What national day is on August 13?

It's National Filet Mignon Day, International Lefthanders Day, National Prosecco Day, Afternoon Tea Week, National Science Week… and much more!

What does Prosecco stand for?

Prosecco (/prəˈsɛkoʊ, proʊ-/, Italian: [proˈsekko]) is an Italian DOC or DOCG white wine produced in a large area spanning nine provinces in the Veneto and Friuli-Venezia Giulia regions, and named after the village of Prosecco, in the province of Trieste, Italy.