Light straw-yellow color with subtle green tinge; flowers, pear, citrus on the nose; pear, citrus, slice of apple, touch of spice on the palate.
Lively, straightforward, easy drinker, terrific and persistent bubbles, superb acidity (3.05 pH). Extra Dry, which means there is light touch of sweetness amid the bracing acidity and flamboyant bubbles. This is a delicious, classic Prosecco—fun, excellent as aperitif, can easily pair with fish or salad; 100% glera gapes. Prosecco should be considered as a starter for every meal or party.
Prosecco Conegliano Valdobbiadene Superiore DOCG (Controlled and Guaranteed Denomination of Origin) can only be made in the Treviso province of Veneto on the hills between the towns of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene. This is the royalty region of Prosecco. The grapes for this bottle are grown on the hillsides near Conegliano. As with all Conegliano Valdobbiadene efforts, the steepness of the vineyard means everything from cultivating to pruning to picking is done by hand. The hands-on effort is another reason—terroir is the first, winery management is the second—that elevates quality.
The winery was established in 1978 by the Ceschin family, whose winemaking roots date back to the 18th century. Fabio Ceschin, fresh after earning a degree from the Wine School of Conegliano, made the family dream come true and remains at the helm, although today his wife and three children assist alongside him.
Il Colle presses some 1,500 tons of grapes each year, one-third from the family vineyard and the remainder from nearby small vineyards. The winery employs state-of-the-art equipment and enforces strict cleanliness and quality-control measures. It is a forward-looking, modern winery making wonderful wine while honoring ancient traditions. Well worth a taste. $15-18
Other photos: Cashin family; Il Colle winery and vineyard, Il Colle cellar.
