Venetian Class

The Age

Saturday July 22, 2006

JANE FAULKNER

Pick a bar, any bar in Venice, as you do - my favourites are along the Grand Canal just near the Ponte di Rialto - and the wine of choice is always prosecco. Easy to see - or rather taste - why: it's a refreshing and lightly aromatic sparkling wine that is great as an aperitif, between meals or as a palate cleanser. Or sipped on its own as you contemplate your next Murano glass purchase.

Prosecco is a variety from the Treviso area, just north of Venice, and is usually dry or off-dry, although sweeter styles are made. One of my favourites is made by Nino Franco, and do try it if you chance upon a bottle. It is imported into Australia, but sporadically.

The other drink of choice in Venice is the spritz, which combines prosecco with Aperol. Apparently Aperol is Italy's biggest-selling spirit, and I am crazy for the stuff. First, it's the most psychedelic of colours - a vivid, lurid orange. Aperol is usually enjoyed as an aperitif but as a spritz, it's so darned refreshing. And addictive.

Also, it's simplicity in a glass. So, as if in Venice, use a large wine glass and add equal amounts each of Aperol and prosecco. Garnish with a slice of orange. Blood orange is better and looks more dramatic. Guaranteed to get a party swinging. -- JANE FAULKNER

DAL ZOTTO PROSECCO 2005 $29

Vigneron Otto Dal Zotto (surely the best name in the industry) grew up in Valdobbiadene, one of the best areas for producing prosecco. His King Valley '05 vintage is delightful, with an aromatic bouquet of citrus fizz notes, a touch of pears and freshly cut apples. Plenty of bubbles, with a refreshing dry finish. Stockist: Armadale Cellars.

APEROL 700mls $25

With a fantastic bouquet of myrtle, candied citrus and strong orange notes; cherries too, this aperitivo is rich, unctuous and luscious on the palate with a touch of sweetness, then those tantalising bitter herb notes to finish. Stockists: widely available.

BELLUSSI PROSECCO DI VALDOBBIADENE $20

This Italian prosecco hails from one of the top producing areas hence the place name Valdobbiadene. This is a dry style - thus it finishes so, plus it's vibrant and fresh. There are some delicate floral notes melded with crunchy apples, hints of pear, too. Stockist: King and Godfree, Carlton.

© 2006 The Age

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