Glera: The Sparkling Soul of Italy

While you might not immediately recognize the name "Glera," you've almost certainly tasted the fruit of its vine: Prosecco. That's right, Glera is the primary grape behind Italy's beloved sparkling wine, and its story is one of both ancient origins and modern resurgence.

A Grape with a Past

Glera is an ancient variety, with its roots potentially tracing back to the Roman era. While its exact origins are debated, it's widely believed to be native to northeastern Italy, specifically the Veneto region, where it thrives today. For centuries, this grape was actually called "Prosecco," named after the village of Prosecco near Trieste. However, to protect the Prosecco name as a specific geographical indication, the grape was officially renamed "Glera" in 2009.

Prosecco's Rise to Fame

Glera's claim to fame is undoubtedly its role in Prosecco. This sparkling wine has taken the world by storm with its approachable style, fresh fruit flavors, and affordable price point. The majority of Prosecco comes from the Veneto region, particularly the areas of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene, which boast DOCG status (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita), the highest level of Italian wine classification.

Characteristics of Glera

So, what makes Glera so special? This aromatic grape variety possesses characteristics that make it ideal for producing sparkling wines:

• High Acidity: Glera's naturally high acidity provides the backbone for refreshing, lively sparkling wines.
• Aromatic Profile: The grape exhibits delicate aromas of white flowers, citrus fruits (like pear and apple), and a hint of almond.
• Versatility: While primarily used for sparkling wine, Glera can also be vinified into still and semi-sparkling wines, showcasing its versatility.

Beyond Prosecco

Though most Glera is destined for sparkling wine production, there are a few other styles to explore:

• Still Glera: These wines are less common but offer a chance to experience the grape's pure fruit flavors without the bubbles.
• Frizzante: A semi-sparkling style with lighter effervescence than Prosecco, often showcasing a more casual, everyday drinking experience.

Discovering Glera

If you're a fan of Prosecco, delve deeper into the world of Glera. Explore different Prosecco styles, from the dry Spumante to the sweeter Frizzante. Seek out bottles from Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG to experience the pinnacle of quality. And don't be afraid to venture beyond the bubbles and try a still Glera to experience a different expression of this fascinating grape.