When it comes to Italian sparkling wines, Prosecco and Spumante are two names that effortlessly pop up—both figuratively and in your glass. Each offers that satisfying sparkle, perfect for celebratory toasts, lazy summer afternoons, or the base of a killer Aperol Spritz. Yet, despite both being fizzy and Italian, these wines are far from interchangeable. They differ in origin, grape varieties, production methods, and flavor profiles—and knowing these distinctions can help you choose the perfect bottle for any occasion.

Prosecco comes exclusively from the rolling hills of Northern Italy, primarily in the Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia regions. Protected by the Prosecco DOC and DOCG designations, only sparkling wine produced here—using traditional methods and approved grapes—can carry the Prosecco name. This wine’s history stretches back to Roman times, with early praise from writers like Aureliano Acanti, who celebrated its crisp, lively character.

Spumante isn’t tied to one small corner of Italy—it’s a broad term for Italian sparkling wine produced in regions across the country, including Asti, Franciacorta, and Trento. This geographical variety means Spumante covers a vast style spectrum, from the sweet and aromatic Asti Spumante to the rich and complex Franciacorta. Unlike Prosecco’s strict regional rules, Spumante’s diversity reflects the full breadth of Italian winemaking creativity.

Prosecco is made primarily from the Glera grape, which delivers light floral notes, fresh acidity, and fruity flavors of green apple, pear, and white peach. While Glera makes up the bulk of the blend, small amounts of grapes such as Bianchetta Trevigiana or Perera may be added to introduce subtle complexity—without straying from Prosecco’s signature approachable style.

Spumante’s grape lineup changes depending on the style and region. The Moscato grape dominates sweet, aromatic styles like Asti Spumante, offering a perfume of orange blossom and honey. In contrast, Chardonnay and Pinot Noirform the backbone of Franciacorta, producing a more structured, Champagne-like wine. This flexibility in grape choice means Spumante ranges from crisp and dry to indulgently sweet.

Prosecco is produced using the Martinotti–Charmat method (also called the tank method). Here, the wine undergoes secondary fermentation in stainless steel tanks rather than in individual bottles. This preserves Glera’s fresh, fruity flavors while producing a light, clean sparkle. It’s a faster, more cost-effective process that gives Prosecco its signature vibrancy and easy-drinking charm.

Spumante production methods vary. Everyday Spumante may also use the tank method, but high-end examples—like Franciacorta—follow the Metodo Classico (Italy’s version of the traditional Champagne method). In this process, the second fermentation happens inside the bottle, and the wine is aged on its lees (spent yeast cells), developing a creamier texture, finer bubbles, and complex notes of brioche or toasted nuts.

Prosecco is loved for its light body, high acidity, and delicate notes of white flowers, citrus, and orchard fruits. Sweetness levels vary:

• Brut Nature – bone dry

• Extra Brut – crisp and lean

• Extra Dry – lightly sweet and very popular

Its refreshing profile makes it a go-to for aperitifs, casual celebrations, and dishes like seafood, antipasti, or creamy pasta.

Spumante’s flavor spectrum is as broad as its grape list. Asti Spumante bursts with floral and fruity sweetness, ideal with desserts. Franciacorta offers toasty, nutty, and citrus-driven flavors with a dry finish—perfect for fine dining. Because the category spans from sweet Moscato-based wines to bone-dry Metodo Classico styles, Spumante truly has something for every palate.

Prosecco delivers excellent value for money. Its tank-method production is faster and less costly than bottle fermentation, making it an affordable yet high-quality sparkling wine. The Prosecco DOC Consortium upholds strict standards, so even budget-friendly bottles deliver consistent freshness and quality.

Spumante’s price tag depends on its style and production. Basic tank-method Spumante is often as affordable as Prosecco, but premium Metodo Classico versions like Franciacorta can rival Champagne prices. This diversity means Spumante appeals to both casual drinkers and serious collectors.

While both Prosecco and Spumante shine in the world of Italian sparkling wines, their origins, grapes, production styles, and flavor profiles give them distinct personalities. Prosecco offers a light, fruity, and affordable sparkle perfect for any day of the week, while Spumante ranges from sweet Moscato charmers to sophisticated Franciacorta masterpieces. Choosing between them isn’t about better or worse—it’s about the mood, the meal, and the moment.