Wine of the Week: Mionetto Prosecco (Sparkling)

In honor of ringing in the new year, toasting friends, family and good health, this week's featured wine is Mionetto Prosecco Brut. Prosecco is Italian sparkling wine. And if you've never tried it, you need to get yourself a bottle.

In contrast to it's French counterpart, Champagne, Prosecco is softer, fruitier, lighter and fresher. When I first tried it, what I noticed most was there was no bitter aftertaste. I've watch Giada de Laurentiis use Prosecco for cocktails on her Food Network shows for years. This winter I finally tried it, and I'm not sure I'm ever going back to Champagne or American sparkling wines.

Prosecco has gained popularity recently here in the States for two reasons. The first being that it's so reasonably priced for the quality. The average bottles costs about $14. Secondly, it pairs well with many foods.

The Mionetto Prosecco is very dry, fresh and light with hints of golden apples. It's perfect alone or makes a delightful complement to salads and mild cheeses. It's excellent as a base for Bellinis (for Harry's Bar's famous peach Bellini recipe, click here) or for other sparkling wine cocktails.

Next time you have a special occasion to celebrate, consider this or any Prosecco. You won't be disappointed!