Issue link: https://digital.copcomm.com/i/776532
6 / the tasting panel / january/february 2017 UpFront with While Prosecco can now be made in three different areas of northeastern Italy in the regions of Veneto and Friuli, it is generally accepted that the original production area of Conegliano Valdobbiadene north of Venice produces the best. It is one of only two production areas (the other being Colli Asolani) that can claim DOCG status—Italy's top quality ranking—for Prosecco production. First, a bit of Prosecco history. Still wine production in the area of Conegliano Valdobbiadene dates back to Roman times, and written records from the 18th and 19th centuries show a vibrant industry that held great importance due to its close proximity to the port city of Venice. In fact, the industry became so important that in 1876, Italy's first enology school was founded in Conegliano to help the winemaking community better manage production of the region's wines. The historic Conegliano Valdobbiadene wine region is a candi- date to become a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG must contain a minimum of 85 percent Glera grapes, the region's star variety. Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG by David Ransom