If you enjoy Prosecco, you’ve likely encountered a wide range of styles — from everyday sparkling wines to bottles that hint at something more. But Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG represents a distinct step up in quality, origin, and craftsmanship.
This is Prosecco defined by place rather than production scale. No shortcuts, no artificial sweetness — just hillside vineyards, careful winemaking, and a tradition shaped over generations. At Fizzy Happiness, this is the style of Prosecco we focus on, curate, and share across the UK.
Geography & Terroir: The Hills That Define Prosecco
Prosecco Superiore DOCG is produced exclusively in the Conegliano and Valdobbiadene hills in the Veneto region of northern Italy. This UNESCO-recognised landscape is characterised by steep slopes, varied exposures, and a unique microclimate that allows the Glera grape to develop freshness, aromatic clarity, and natural balance.
These hillside vineyards create a distinctive sense of place — a terroir that shapes the wine’s flavour profile, from crisp acidity and fine fruit notes to subtle minerality.
Heroic Viticulture: The Craft Behind the Wine
Working these steep hills is physically demanding. In many vineyards, machinery simply cannot be used, meaning much of the work — including harvesting — is carried out by hand.
This approach, often referred to as heroic viticulture, results in lower yields and greater attention to each vine. The outcome is fruit with higher concentration and consistency, contributing to Prosecco that feels more refined, structured, and expressive in the glass.
What DOCG Really Means
The DOCG designation (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita) is Italy’s highest quality classification for wine. For Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore, it signifies strict controls over vineyard location, grape yields, production methods, and final quality.
Every wine is subject to both chemical analysis and blind tasting before it can carry the DOCG seal. This ensures that each bottle reflects the standards and regional identity the classification represents.
Finer Bubbles, Greater Balance
One of the defining characteristics of Prosecco Superiore DOCG is the quality of its sparkle. A longer, carefully managed second fermentation helps create finer, more persistent bubbles.
The result is a softer, more balanced mouthfeel — with freshness and clarity rather than sharpness or excessive sweetness. This is Prosecco designed to be enjoyed slowly, not rushed.
Labelling & Traceability: From Vineyard to Bottle
Every bottle of Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG carries a numbered government seal. This allows the wine to be traced back through its production chain, from vineyard to final bottling.
It’s a small detail, but one that reflects the region’s commitment to transparency, authenticity, and quality assurance.
Sustainability in the Hills
Sustainability is increasingly central to the region’s future. A growing proportion of Conegliano Valdobbiadene vineyards operate under certified sustainable practices, focusing on biodiversity, soil health, and reduced environmental impact.
Choosing Prosecco Superiore DOCG often means supporting producers who are investing in long-term stewardship of these historic hills.
Discover Prosecco Superiore with Fizzy Happiness
At Fizzy Happiness, we specialise in sourcing small-production Prosecco Superiore DOCG and Italian wines from independent, family-run wineries. Our selection is curated for character, balance, and regional expression — whether you’re discovering Prosecco for the first time or exploring it in more depth.
You can find these wines through our online shop, at our wine bars La Dolce Bolla (Marlow) and UNDICI (Old Amersham), or at our regular tastings and events.
Prosecco, as it was meant to be — shaped by hills, tradition, and care.