A Brief History
National Prosecco Day (13 August) is more than just a reason to raise a glass – it’s a celebration of one of Italy’s most beloved sparkling wines. Originating from the Veneto and Friuli-Venezia Giulia regions in northeast Italy, this refreshing fizz is made primarily from the Glera grape, and has a history stretching back over 2,000 years to Roman times.
While it was once a quiet regional favourite, Prosecco has bubbled its way into global wine culture over the last two decades. Its light, fruity profile and affordability compared to Champagne have made it the go-to celebratory drink for millions.
Prosecco’s Popularity Boom – Especially in the UK
The UK has truly embraced Prosecco, helping to turn it from a niche Italian export into a global phenomenon.
Here’s a snapshot of the Prosecco surge:
- The UK is the world’s largest importer of Prosecco, accounting for over 36% of all exported bottles
- In 2024, Britons bought approximately 120 million bottles of Prosecco – that’s nearly 2 bottles for every adult in the country
- Sales of Prosecco in UK supermarkets and online rose by 12% year-on-year in 2023 (NielsenIQ)
- A recent YouGov survey found 67% of UK adults prefer Prosecco to Champagne for casual celebrations
- Prosecco now accounts for 1 in 3 bottles of sparkling wine sold in the UK
Its popularity is partly thanks to the rise of bottomless brunch culture, Prosecco-based cocktails like the Aperol Spritz, and its positioning as a more accessible, everyday luxury.
Where to Buy: Shop the Sparkle
Whether you’re stocking up for a garden party or fancy trying a premium bottle, here are some popular UK retailers with great Prosecco selections:
- Majestic Wines – known for curated selections and knowledgeable staff
- Laithwaites – offers gift boxes and subscription deals
- Naked Wines – supports independent winemakers, including Italian vineyards
- Ocado – perfect for convenient delivery with your weekly shop
Learn to Sip Like a Sommelier
Why not take your knowledge up a notch? Whether you’re a casual fan or aspiring wine expert, these wine education courses will have you swirling, sniffing and sipping with purpose:
- WSET Level 1 in Wines – ideal for beginners looking to understand wine styles, pairings and terminology
- The Wine Society’s Online Wine Tastings – regular interactive sessions you can join from home
- Coursera: Wine Tasting and Sensory Techniques – a more technical deep-dive from University of California, Davis – great for wine nerds!
Quick Tips for Enjoying Prosecco
- Serve chilled – around 6–8°C is ideal.
- Use a tulip-shaped glass rather than a flute to capture the aromas.
- Drink young – most Prosecco is meant to be enjoyed within a year or two of bottling.
- Pair with light appetisers, seafood, or fruity desserts.
Photo by Alberto Caliman on Unsplash
A Toast to Moderation
Please drink responsibly. While Prosecco is a pleasure to enjoy, it’s important to be mindful of consumption. Visit Drinkaware for guidance on low-risk drinking and how alcohol can affect your health.