What is Prosecco? Why Australians Love This Sparkling Wine

Australians really love their sparkling wine, and right at the centre of that obsession is Prosecco. This lively, bubbly wine has found its way into just about every part of Aussie life. Prosecco fits in everywhere, celebrating a big moment, kicking back at brunch, or just winding down after a long week. It’s light, easygoing, but still feels a bit fancy. That’s basically the Australian vibe in a glass.

Getting your hands on a bottle is a breeze these days. Just Wines makes it simple to buy Prosecco online, so you don’t have to hunt it down in local bottle shops. Australian wineries are making some incredible Prosecco right here, and there’s still plenty of top-notch Italian bottles around, too. Whether you’re a loyal fan or just curious, there’s a ton to explore. So, what’s behind the Prosecco craze, and why do Aussies keep coming back for more? Fill your glasses and let’s find out together.

What is Prosecco?

It’s a sparkling white wine that comes from the northeastern corner of Italy, mainly the Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia regions. People often compare it to Champagne, but they’re not made the same way. With Champagne, the bubbles happen in the bottle. Prosecco, on the other hand, gets its fizz in big stainless steel tanks, a process called the Charmat method. Because of this, Prosecco keeps more of its fresh, fruity flavours, and the bubbles are softer and lighter.

Most Prosecco is made from the Glera grape, which gives it a light, aromatic character. It’s not as boozy as Champagne, usually sitting around 11–12% alcohol, and it’s often a bit sweeter and fruitier. That makes it pretty approachable, whether you’re new to wine or you’re a seasoned drinker. You can find Prosecco in different styles: Brut (dry), Extra Dry (a little sweeter than you’d guess from the name), and Demi-Sec (sweet). So, there’s something for just about everyone and every occasion.

Key Characteristics

Origin: Prosecco comes from the rolling hills of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene in the Veneto region. But you’ll also find some great bottles from Australia now, especially in places like King Valley, Yarra Valley, and Adelaide Hills.

Primary Grape:  It’s mostly made from the Glera grapes, at least 85%. That’s where the wine gets its fresh, floral aroma.

Taste Profile: Think green apple, white peach, pear, honeysuckle, and a burst of citrus zest. There’s a refreshing acidity that keeps it lively.

Flavour Intensity: It’s light to medium-bodied, crisp, and clean, super easy to drink and pairs well with a lot of different foods.

Bubbles: Prosecco’s bubbles are smaller and softer than Champagne’s, giving you a creamier, gentler feel in your mouth.

Ageing:  Don’t wait around. Prosecco is at its best when it’s young and fresh, usually within a year or two of being made. That’s when those bright fruit flavours really shine.

Sweetness Levels: The range goes from Brut Nature (very dry) to Demi-Sec (quite sweet). Funny enough, Extra Dry is the most popular style, even though it isn’t actually the driest.

Serving Temperature: Chill it well, 6 to 8°C is perfect. That way, all those fresh, fruity aromas pop, and every sip stays refreshing.

Top Australian Regions to Find the Best Prosecco

King Valley, Victoria: This place is basically the heart of Prosecco in Australia. With its Italian roots and cool, elevated vineyards, the region turns out Prosecco with pure fruit flavours and bold, aromatic punch. If you know De Bortoli, you know they set the standard here.

Yarra Valley, Victoria: Yarra Valley’s got a reputation for cool-climate wines, and its Prosecco doesn’t disappoint. You get refined bubbles, a good dose of complexity, and a food-friendly style that mixes classic Italian methods with a bit of Aussie creativity.

Adelaide Hills, South Australia: Think bright, vibrant Prosecco with lots of zing. The vineyards sit high up, so the grapes get plenty of cool air, and you can taste it, fresh fruit, crisp acidity, and a real sense of place in every glass.

Central Victoria: This area is a bit of a chameleon. With all its different landscapes, you can find Prosecco styles ranging from juicy and fruit-forward to more mineral, serious expressions. And the value? Hard to beat.

Hunter Valley, New South Wales: The winemakers here really know their stuff. Decades of experience go into every bottle, so their Proseccos have genuine character, depth, and structure. They stand out, no question.

Types of Prosecco Styles

Prosecco Spumante (Fully Sparkling): This is the Prosecco everyone thinks of, lively, full of energetic bubbles, and just right for celebrations. It’s got that classic fresh fruit and zingy acidity that makes it such a crowd-pleaser.

Prosecco Frizzante (Lightly Sparkling): Want something a little softer? Frizzante’s got you. The bubbles are gentle, the pressure’s lower, and it feels easygoing, perfect for daytime sipping or when you want something a bit more laid-back.

Prosecco Tranquillo (Still): No bubbles here. It’s rare, but Tranquillo lets the Glera grape shine in its purest form, fresh, crisp, and all about the fruit.

Brut Nature (0-3g/L residual sugar): Bone dry and razor sharp. If you’re after a crisp, sophisticated Prosecco with almost no sweetness, this is it.

Extra Brut (0-6g/L residual sugar): Still very dry but with just a hint of fruit sweetness to balance things out. It works well as an aperitif or with delicate seafood.

Brut (0-12g/L residual sugar): Dry, but not too severe. You get a nice balance between freshness and a touch of sweetness, great for people who like their wine refined but not austere.

Extra Dry (12-17g/L residual sugar): Despite the name, this one’s actually a bit sweet, and it’s the most popular style for a reason. Bright fruit, lively acidity, and enough versatility to please just about anyone.

Dry/Demi-Sec (17-32g/L residual sugar): Now we’re talking sweet. Lots of fruit, perfect for dessert or for anyone who likes their bubbles with a sugary edge. Try it with fruit tarts or soft cheeses.

Prosecco Rosé: Add a splash of Pinot Noir to the mix, and you get this pretty, pink style. Expect delicate berry flavours, floral notes, and a gorgeous blush colour, a fun and fresh twist on the classic.

Why Australians Love This Sparkling Wine

Approachable Quality & Price: Prosecco nails that sweet spot between quality and price. You get those bright flavours, green apple, pear, white peach, a bit of citrus, without dropping a fortune. It’s not just a bottle for special occasions. You can pop it open at a backyard barbecue, a picnic, or just because it’s Friday.

Versatility Across Occasions: It fits in just about anywhere, too. Pour a glass before dinner, serve it up with brunch, or match it with seafood, charcuterie, oysters, or good cheese. Prosecco’s always up for the occasion, no matter the time of day or who’s around.

High-Quality Local Production: Australian winemakers have really dialled in their Prosecco game. They stay true to Italian traditions but let local terroir shine through. The result? Fresher bottles, less travel, and a real boost for homegrown vineyards.

Light and Refreshing Character: In warm weather, Australian Prosecco just works. It’s light, refreshing, and usually sits around 11-12% alcohol, so you can enjoy a few glasses at the beach, a garden party, or a long lunch and not feel weighed down.

Food-Friendly Nature: It loves food, too. That crisp acidity and burst of fruit make it a match for anything, from fresh seafood and Asian-inspired plates to smoky barbecues and modern Aussie dishes. Basically, it’s your go-to food and wine.

Celebratory Yet Casual: There’s something casual and celebratory about it. Prosecco feels special but never stiff, so it fits perfectly with Australia’s relaxed, quality-first vibe. It lifts everyday moments, but never tries too hard.

Growing Wine Culture: People in Australia are getting more adventurous with their bubbles. Prosecco answers that call. It’s approachable, fun, and fits wine lovers of every stripe.

6 Best Proseccos to Buy Online in Australia at Just Wines

1. Mojo Winemakers South Australia Prosecco NV

 

A crisp and refreshing sparkling wine from the South Australian region that’s bursting with  fresh and fruity flavours of green apple, lemon zest, and pear, along with a subtle floral lift that gives off a  gentle texture, crisp acidity, and a clean finish.

2. De Bortoli King Valley Prosecco NV

From Australia's Prosecco capital, this sparkling beauty is a true expression of King Valley excellence that offers aromatic pear, green apple and citrus blossom characters. Gentle bubbles and refreshing flavours make it ideal for brunch parties and casual toasts.

3. Dalfarras Victoria Sparkling Prosecco 2025

 

A trendy Australian Prosecco bursting with fresh flavours and aromas of green apple, pear and citrus kick. This wine showcases beautiful texture and length, with notes of citrus blossom and crisp green apple that dance across the palate.

4. Four Sisters Central Victoria Sparkling Prosecco 2024

Crafted with precision from Central Victoria vineyards, this Prosecco offers refreshing complexity with a well-balanced layer of punchy crisp lemon, apple and pear. A fruity texture with a lean, crisp, and zesty texture, all enhanced by delicate aromatics, depth of flavour and a refreshing kick.

5. Rochford Latitude Yarra Valley Prosecco NV

An elegant Yarra Valley expression with refined bubbles and sophisticated fruit character. Expect notes of white flowers, green melon, and lemon peel with a crisp, clean finish that lingers beautifully.

6. McPherson Bella Luna Central Victoria Pink Prosecco 2024

A stunning rosé Prosecco with a delicate salmon hue and flavours of fresh strawberries, red cherries, and rose petals. The perfect choice for those seeking something visually striking and deliciously different.

Food Pairings with a Perfect Bottle of Prosecco

Fresh Oysters with Mignonette: When it comes to pairings, Prosecco is a bit of a magician; the wine’s zingy acidity and gentle bubbles slice through the brininess, while those citrus notes pick up the dressing. Sydney rock or natural oysters both love a dry Prosecco.

Prosciutto and Melon: Classic. The wine’s fruitiness matches the sweet melon, and its acidity keeps the prosciutto’s salt in check. It’s antipasto done right.

Salt and Pepper Calamari: The bubbles clean your palate between bites of crispy, seasoned squid, and that citrus dash in the wine echoes a squeeze of lemon. It’s the kind of combo that makes casual get-togethers feel a bit more special.

Creamy Brie and Soft Cheeses: This loves an Extra Dry Prosecco. The subtle sweetness offsets the rich cheese, and the bubbles keep things fresh so you never get tired of the flavours.

Vietnamese Rice Paper Rolls: Packed with herbs and prawns or chicken, find an ideal partner in Prosecco. The wine’s delicate fruit lets herbs like mint and coriander shine, never overpowering the dish.

Smoked Salmon Bruschetta:  Prosecco’s lively fizz cuts through the salmon’s richness, while those fruity notes bring out the cream cheese and capers. Serve it on toasted sourdough, and you’ve got brunch sorted.

Frequently Asked Questions

1. What's the difference between Prosecco and Champagne?

Champagne uses bottle fermentation and comes exclusively from France's Champagne region, while Prosecco uses the tank method and is made primarily from Glera grapes. Prosecco is generally lighter, fruitier, and more affordable, with softer bubbles and lower alcohol content. If you love to read more on this, read our blog here, Prosecco Vs Champagne.

2. How long does Prosecco last once opened?

Once you pop the cork, Prosecco starts losing its fizz and freshness pretty quickly. Best bet? Drink it within three days, and make sure you keep it chilled in the fridge with a proper sparkling wine stopper. After that window, it won’t hurt you, but the bubbles and bright flavours start to fade. Keep it cold and sealed, and you’ll hang onto those bubbles as long as possible.

3. Is Australian Prosecco as good as Italian Prosecco?

Australian Prosecco has really made a name for itself. Places like King Valley are turning out bottles that stand right alongside the best from Italy. Sure, Italian Prosecco brings all that classic history and old-school charm, but Australian winemakers are pushing boundaries with fresh ideas and incredible fruit. In the end, it’s about what you like. Both have great options at different prices, so it’s worth trying a few to see what suits your taste.

4. What temperature should I serve Prosecco?

Keep it cold, really cold. Aim for 6-8°C (43-46°F). That’s when Prosecco tastes crisp, and the bubbles stick around. Too warm, and it goes flat fast. Too cold, and you lose the flavours. Toss the bottle in an ice bucket for half an hour, or stick it in the fridge for a few hours before you open it.

5. Can I cook with Prosecco?

Definitely. Prosecco brings a lovely zing and brightness to food. Splash it into risotto, seafood pasta, cream sauces, or use it to deglaze a pan after cooking chicken or fish. It even works in desserts, think sorbets or fruit compotes. Just don’t waste your best bottle on dinner. Save the fancy stuff for drinking, and use a more affordable one for cooking.

6. Where can I buy the best Australian Prosecco online?

At Just Wines, we offer an extensive range for you to buy sparkling wine online in Australia with secure delivery, detailed tasting notes, and exclusive wine sales, ensuring exceptional services both in terms of quality and value.

Raise Your Glass: Buy Premium Prosecco Online at Just Wines

Australia's passion for Prosecco represents our essence in a way that is both sophisticated and approachable, joyous and modest. There is a Prosecco for every occasion, whether you are looking at elite Australian examples or genuine Italian expressions. Just Wines' carefully chosen selections, best wine deals, and easy delivery throughout Australia make finding the ideal bottle simple. When exceptional Prosecco is only a click away, don't settle for ordinary. To add flair to any celebration, browse the selection at Just Wines and buy Prosecco online right now. Find your ideal bubbles. Cheers!