GleraThe sparkling star behind Italy's beloved Prosecco bubbles

Glera is the grape variety that puts the fizz in Prosecco, Italy's most popular sparkling wine. Originally known as Prosecco itself until 2009, when Italian authorities renamed the grape to protect the Prosecco designation, Glera has ancient roots in northeastern Italy. Its heartland lies in the Veneto and Friuli regions, particularly in the stunning hillsides of Conegliano-Valdobbiadene.

What makes Glera special is its ability to produce fresh, fruit-forward sparkling wines using the Charmat method, where secondary fermentation happens in large tanks rather than individual bottles. This creates lighter, more approachable bubbles compared to Champagne. While Glera thrives in Italy's cool climate zones, producing wines with bright acidity and delicate aromatics, it's also gaining popularity in Argentina, Australia, and Brazil as winemakers worldwide seek to capture that easy-drinking, celebratory sparkle.

Glera wines are all about freshness and approachability. On the nose, expect bright aromas of green apple, pear, white peach, and honeysuckle, often with hints of citrus zest and delicate floral notes. Some expressions reveal subtle undertones of melon or tropical fruit.

On the palate, Glera delivers crisp acidity with flavors echoing the aromatics—think orchard fruits, lemon, and occasionally a whisper of almond or cream. The mouthfeel is light to medium-bodied with fine, persistent bubbles that dance on the tongue. The finish is clean and refreshing, never heavy or overly complex.

Glera-based Prosecco is incredibly food-friendly. Pair it with antipasti, fried calamari, prosciutto and melon, light seafood dishes, or Asian cuisine. It's also perfect as an aperitif or mixed into a classic Bellini cocktail.