The grape variety Glera

Glera is a white grape variety predominantly grown in the Veneto and Friuli Venezia Giulia regions of north-eastern Italy. Renowned as the principal grape in Prosecco production, Glera wines are typically pale straw-yellow in colour and exhibit a delicate, lively effervescence. Aromatically, Glera offers fresh and enticing notes of green apple, pear, white peach, and citrus, often accompanied by subtle floral hints of acacia and wisteria. On the palate, it is light-bodied with vibrant acidity, lending a crisp, refreshing character. Flavours echo the aromatic profile, featuring orchard fruits balanced by a gentle minerality and a clean, slightly off-dry finish.

The primary style associated with Glera is sparkling Prosecco, made in both frizzante (lightly sparkling) and spumante (fully sparkling) versions, though still wines exist in much smaller quantities. Prosecco ranges from brut to extra dry, offering varying degrees of sweetness while maintaining a lively freshness.

Glera-based wines pair exceptionally well with a variety of dishes. They are excellent as an aperitif and complement delicate starters such as seafood, light salads, and prosciutto crudo. Their bright acidity and subtle fruitiness also make them suitable matches for Asian cuisine, mild cheeses, and fresh fruit-based desserts.