Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG comes from the hills extending between Conegliano and Valdobbiadene in north-eastern Veneto. The landscape is shaped by long, frequently very steep slopes, narrow valleys, woodland and a mosaic of differently exposed vineyard parcels. Soils vary markedly over short distances and include marl, clay, sandstone, conglomerates and calcareous components. Altitude, ventilation and the meeting of Alpine and Adriatic influences encourage a gradual ripening season, helping Glera retain aromatic clarity and lively acidity. On the most demanding slopes, vineyard work is often carried out by hand, an enduring feature of this distinctive hillside viticulture.
Glera is the principal grape and must account for at least 85 percent of the blend. It contributes white-fleshed fruit, floral tones, freshness and a gentle, finely textured acidity. Limited proportions of traditional local varieties, including Verdiso, Bianchetta Trevigiana, Perera and Glera Lunga, as well as certain authorised white grapes, may complement the blend. These historic varieties can add fragrance, structure or a particular edge of freshness.
Grapes are picked according to ripeness and site, often with selective passes through the vineyards. Following gentle pressing, the must undergoes temperature-controlled alcoholic fermentation. Most wines are made by the Martinotti method, in which a second fermentation in a pressurised tank creates the sparkle while preserving the primary fruit and floral character of Glera. The fermentation may be stopped at different levels of residual sweetness according to the intended style. Bottle refermentation also has a place in the denomination through Sui Lieviti wines, which remain in contact with their lees and can show a drier, more savoury and yeast-influenced profile.
Viticulture in these hills has deep roots, and the area’s identity was strengthened by the development of local winegrowing knowledge and oenological education in Conegliano. The DOCG designation expresses this longstanding connection between hillside cultivation, Glera and sparkling-wine technique. Within the appellation, Rive, identified steep hillside areas or individual sites, and the historic Cartizze zone have a particularly strong identity.
