All DOC Prosecco labels change to DOCG

Following the creation of DOCG status in Italy, the Consorzio Tutela Prosecco di Conegliano Valdobbiadene has decided to change all the labels for the sparkling wine for producers of current DOC to the top quality status of DOCG from April 1, 2010. This change will be formerly presented by the consorzio at Vinitaly 2010.

Giancarlo Vettorello, director of the  consorzio says: "The decision that the deblocage of the first bottle of DOCG Conegliano Valdobbiadene must be fixed on April 1 has been taken to clarify the situation, by ensuring that those DOCG producers who will have their wine available to sell from the beginning of the year will not use the term DOCG before others who choose to wait until the spring to bottle and sell their wines. This move will simplify the transition and, therefore, ensure transparency."

The other wine producers in Veneto previously at IGT level are now allowed to use the DOC status, so it was important for the consorzio to officially regulate the decision to ensure all DOCG producers were working simultaneously to clearly promote the recognition of its premium quality. So until April 1 consumers will find both Prosecco DOC (old IGT) and Prosecco Conegliano Valdobiaddene DOC on the shelves, but the second name will always appear in full including Conegliano Valdobiaddene  which is the guarantee of premium quality and which will make it clear for consumers to choose and buy the original and best Prosecco.

With the premiumisation of Prosecco Conegliano Valdobbiadene, and its increasing popularity internationally, Vettorello, sayss: "The rules for DOCG will be kept the same as the current DOC so the market does not need to worry about price increases, and the Consorzio proviso for the 2009 vintage is a small ‘decrease’ in the prices to be charged for the grapes, despite quality being 'very good' this year."

The new DOCG status is being celebrated in many ways, including with the Italian Minister of Agriculture, Luca Zaia, having joined the start of the harvest this year.

At next month’s annual London Vino in Villa tasting at the Institute of Directors on October 19, Vettorello will hold an industry briefing to further explain the DOCG and update the UK press and trade.

The event also includes two master classes with Tim Atkin MW – Prosecco: The Revolution, and DOCG: The New Superior Identity of Prosecco, demonstrating why these wines deserve their new top DOCG status. The revelry continues with the renowned Riccardo De Prà, head chef of Il Dolada, who will present a special cake during the event to toast the DOCG.

The event this year also includes a dedicated Cartizze table for the press and trade and so as not to forget the most important reason for ever striving to produce high quality, appetising wine an evening event for consumers.

1 September 2009 - James Graham