In 2013, Britain’s largest wine seller said Prosecco had overtaken champagne as its customers’ favourite sparkling tipple. Tesco expects to sell 250,000 bottles of the Italian wine in the two-day run-up to the New Year, having reported a 70% increase in sales over the Christmas period.

The reason why Prosecco has become so popular, is because it is seen as an affordable treat. Just a little bit of luxury that won’t break the bank. Because of that, it has become a drink not just for special occasions like birthdays but for parties and other get-togethers.

In case you are not familiar with this style of wine, Prosecco is a tank method sparkling wine made primarily from Glera grapes grown in the Veneto region of Italy. It cannot be called a Prosecco if it’s not from Veneto in Italy. When it comes to taste, Prosecco wines are softer, creamier and usually a bit sweeter than Champagne, Cava and Methode Cap Classique style wines.

I’ve tried Prosecco before, but my first real introduction to this Italian sparkling white wine was over lunch at Balducci’s in the V&A Waterfront, with the team from Distelleria Bottega.

For three generations, the Distelleria Bottega has made some of Italy’s finest and most sought-after wines and spirits. In addition to the classic Proseccos, Bottega also produces other sparkling wines as well as a range of smooth grappas and grappa-based products.

One of the most eye-catching features of the Bottega brand is undoubtedly the packaging. The Bottega Liquid Metals Collection screams BLING, while the Bottega Black Diamond is decorated with the most beautiful and luxurious Swarovski crystals. Distilleria Bottega also owns their own glass blowing facility, which is used to create the beautiful “works of art” that live inside the Alexander Grappa bottles.

The packaging might be the first thing that attracts the eye, but it’s the liquid inside the bottle that will seduce you in the end. Rest assured that the Prosecco, sparkling wines and the grappas from the Bottega range will not disappoint the taste buds.

Bottega products can be purchased at Pick n Pay Liquor Stores & Grocery Stores, Checkers Liquor Stores & Grocery Stores, Tops & Spar Liquor Stores, Ultra Liquor Stores, Makro Liquor Stores, Picardi Liquor Stores and Blue Bottle Liquor Stores.