Lemon-yellow with tinge of green color; pear, yeast on elegant nose; pear, lemon-lime on the palate.
Extra dry (slightly sweeter than brut), very clean and refreshing, some complexity from 30 days lying on the lees; fine and very persistent perlage (the chain of bubbles that rise from the bottom of the flute; the finer and longer lasting the bubbles, the better and more refined the wine); impressive faux cut-glass bottle. Will work wonderfully as aperitif—be sure to show the bottle as your guests get in the mood for dinner/party.
Astoria was founded in 1987 by Paolo and Giorgio Polegato, brothers and third generation Italian winemakers. The grapes are cultivated on the Val De Brun family estate in Refrontolo, which is in the middle of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene area, the heart of the Prosecco DOCG. Astoria asserts their Veneto vineyards consist of “acres located in one of the most beautiful wine-growing areas in Italy, renowned for its climate, highlight the harmonious succession of hills and vineyards.”
In addition to this traditional Prosecco, Astoria also makes a line of wines named “9.5 Cold Wine.” The 9.5 is the alcohol content in the sparkling wines—brut, red, and pink—to be drunk as cold as possible. They also make a sparkling that is an alcohol-free, a rare feat.
Astoria Prosecco DOC Treviso NV is tasty, solid Prosecco from an innovative maker. $13
Second photo: Paolo and Giorgio Polegato
