The sunshine streams through the expansive windows of the Balmoral Hotel’s Holyrood suite, reflecting off a pristine collection of sparkling tasting glasses awaiting the masterclass. As far as tastings go, this Prosecco DOC trade tasting is up there with the best.
Organised by Wine Events Scotland, all of the details are perfectly planned. Over the last 18 months Diana Thompson who runs Wine Events has ‘pivoted’ to offer online tastings, but there is still something special about a real life social event.
Ten Prosecco DOC are on offer, including a handful of the spanking new Prosecco DOC Rosé Millesimato. I was expecting sweet from the newly introduced pink range, however the fine selection on offer are Brut through and through. The new sparkling rose Proseccos were launched in 2020 and make up only 3.4% of the total Prosecco DOC production, so it’s a fabulous opportunity to try this relatively rare newcomer.
Neil Phillips a.k.a. The Wine Tipster (@TheWineTipster on Twitter) is also the Prosecco DOC UK brand ambassador and does a sterling job presenting (and educating us) about the style and terroir of one of the most misunderstood forms of fizz. Exclusively from the north-east of Italy, there is more to Prosecco than meets the eye.
Food matching is discussed. We might not think of mixing fizz with food, but the introduction of a number of canapés highlights the more subtle notes of Prosecco DOC. For instance, a pea and mint canapé transforms a previously peachy Bosco del Merlo Prosecco DOC Millesimato 2020 Brut to a drier, more savoury sophistication. Salty artisanal pork crackling paired beautifully with Villa Sandi Organic Il Fresco Prosecco DOC Brut – yes, organic!
I have attended many tastings over the last 30 years, including many with top end wine merchants, and I would rate this as my favourite experience for quality, education and entertainment. Highly recommended. (T Griffen)
The next Wine Event Scotland tasting is an online ‘Fizz Friday with Prosecco DOC’ on Friday 5th November, including fizz and matched drinks biscuits sent to your door, with a guest spot from Andy Murray, founder of the Drinks Bakery. Book your tickets at https://wineeventsscotland.co.uk/events/fizz-friday-prosecco-doc-nov/
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