Le Contesse, Prosecco Rosé, Nv - 20cl
Le Contesse, Prosecco Rosé, Nv - 20cl
- Rosé Sparkling
- 20CL
- 11.5%
- Glera, Pinot Nero
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Le Contesse produces this elegant Prosecco Rosé from the Veneto region, blending traditional Glera with a small proportion of Pinot Nero to achieve the characteristic pale salmon colour. The wine undergoes secondary fermentation using the Charmat method, preserving the fresh fruit character and creating fine, persistent bubbles.
The 20cl format makes this an ideal choice for individual enjoyment or as part of a tasting selection. Best consumed within two years of purchase to appreciate its vibrant fruit character and crisp effervescence, this Prosecco Rosé offers an accessible introduction to Italy's growing reputation for quality rosé sparkling wines.
This Prosecco Rosé is designed for immediate consumption and will not benefit from cellaring. The primary fruit character and vibrant acidity are at their peak upon release and will gradually diminish over the next 18-24 months. Beyond two years, the wine may lose its fresh berry flavours and the bubbles will become less persistent. Unlike traditional method sparkling wines, Charmat method Prosecco does not develop secondary complexity with age, so early consumption ensures optimal enjoyment of its intended bright, fruity style.
Tasting Notes
AppearancePale salmon-pink with fine, persistent bubbles forming an elegant mousse.
NoseFresh strawberry and white peach aromas emerge immediately, supported by delicate floral undertones. A subtle yeastiness adds depth without overwhelming the primary fruit character. The aromatics are clean and inviting, typical of well-made Charmat method sparkling wine.
PalateThe entry is crisp and refreshing, with bright acidity framing flavours of red berries and stone fruit. A gentle creaminess from the fine bubbles provides texture, whilst the wine remains fundamentally dry and food-friendly. The Pinot Nero contribution adds subtle structure and a barely perceptible tannic grip.
FinishClean and dry with lingering strawberry and citrus peel, enhanced by a pleasant mineral freshness.
Overall impressionAn accomplished Prosecco Rosé that balances fruit purity with structural integrity, ideal for aperitif consumption or light food pairing.
Food Pairings
In the Veneto region, Prosecco Rosé is typically enjoyed as an aperitivo alongside cicchetti, the local equivalent of tapas, featuring baccalà mantecato on polenta crisps or fresh seafood from the Adriatic coast. Locals pair it with risotto ai frutti di mare, where the wine's acidity cuts through the richness whilst complementing the delicate shellfish flavours. During summer, it accompanies prosciutto di San Daniele with fresh figs or melon, the bubbles cleansing the palate between bites of the sweet, salty combination. The wine also works beautifully with the region's renowned tiramisu, where its brightness provides a refreshing counterpoint to the mascarpone-rich dessert.
We think this wine would go well with
Serve well-chilled at 6-8°C in flute or tulip-shaped glasses to concentrate the aromatics and maintain effervescence. No decanting required; open just before serving to preserve the bubbles. The 20cl format means the entire bottle should be consumed immediately once opened, making it perfect for individual portions or when sampling multiple wines.
The vineyards are situated in the gently rolling hills of the Prosecco DOC zone in Veneto, where calcareous clay soils provide excellent drainage whilst retaining sufficient moisture during summer months. The continental climate, moderated by the nearby Adriatic Sea, ensures gradual ripening and preserves the natural acidity essential for sparkling wine production. The elevation of 50-200 metres above sea level creates ideal diurnal temperature variation, allowing the grapes to develop aromatics whilst maintaining freshness.
Prosecco DOC covers a large area across Veneto and Friuli-Venezia Giulia, established in 2009 to protect and regulate Italy's most famous sparkling wine. The regulations require a minimum 85% Glera grape, with Chardonnay, Pinot Bianco, Pinot Grigio, and Pinot Nero permitted for the remainder. For Prosecco Rosé, introduced in 2020, the rules mandate 10-15% Pinot Nero vinified with skin contact to achieve the colour, with the balance being Glera. The appellation prioritises fresh, fruity character over complexity, distinguishing it from the premium Prosecco DOCG zones of Conegliano Valdobbiadene and Asolo.
FAQs
What makes Prosecco Rosé different from regular Prosecco?
Prosecco Rosé must contain 10-15% Pinot Nero (Pinot Noir) grapes vinified with brief skin contact to achieve the pink colour, while regular Prosecco is made primarily from white Glera grapes. The Pinot Nero adds subtle red berry flavours and a touch more structure whilst maintaining the fresh, accessible character typical of Prosecco.
How long will this 20cl bottle stay fresh once opened?
Unlike larger formats, the 20cl bottle should be consumed immediately upon opening as there are no effective preservation methods for such small volumes of sparkling wine. The bubbles will dissipate rapidly, and the fresh fruit character will be lost within hours of opening.
Is this a sweet or dry wine?
This Prosecco Rosé is dry (typically labelled as Brut), containing less than 12 grams per litre of residual sugar. Whilst the fresh fruit flavours may give an impression of sweetness, the wine finishes clean and crisp with bright acidity, making it suitable for food pairing and aperitif consumption.
What food pairs best with Prosecco Rosé?
The wine's fresh acidity and delicate fruit character make it ideal with seafood, light pasta dishes, charcuterie, soft cheeses, and fruit-based desserts. It works particularly well as an aperitif with canapés or light antipasti, where its bubbles and brightness stimulate the appetite.
How does this compare to Champagne rosé?
Prosecco Rosé is made using the Charmat method, creating a lighter, more fruit-forward style compared to Champagne's traditional method which develops more complex, yeasty characteristics. Prosecco Rosé emphasises fresh berry flavours and immediate enjoyment, whilst Champagne rosé typically offers greater depth, structure and ageing potential.
Why choose the 20cl format?
The 20cl format is perfect for individual consumption, tasting flights, or when you want to enjoy different wines throughout an evening without committing to a full bottle. It's also ideal for gifts, picnics, or occasions where portion control is important, providing exactly two generous glasses of wine.
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