The Prosecco Hills – Celebrating 5 Years as a UNESCO World Heritage Site
This year marks five years since the Prosecco Hills of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene were officially inscribed as a UNESCO World Heritage Site in August 2019. After years of campaigning, Italy’s sparkling jewel was recognised on the global stage, joining iconic landmarks such as the Great Barrier Reef, the Grand Canyon and Machu Picchu, and placed under the protection of international treaties.
These breathtaking hills are the birthplace of the sparkling wine Australians have embraced so wholeheartedly. It’s here, in this picturesque landscape, that Prosecco’s celebrated bubbles are born.
Prosecco Among the World’s Finest
The Prosecco Hills stand proudly alongside other UNESCO-listed wine regions, including Portugal’s Alto Douro, Hungary’s Tokaj, and France’s Burgundy, Champagne, Saint-Émilion and the Loire Valley, as well as Italy’s Piedmont.
UNESCO praised the region for its unique beauty and centuries-old traditions. The landscape is characterised by rugged ‘hogback’ hills and ciglioni, small vine plots on grassy terraces, alongside forests, villages and farmland. Since the 17th century, the ciglioni have created a striking chequerboard of vines across the slopes, while the 19th-century bellussera vine-training technique added a distinctive aesthetic. This is truly one of the world’s most historic yet still undiscovered wine regions.
A Future Built on Sustainability
Recognition is only the first step – sustainability is now the focus for the Prosecco Hills. Family producers such as Serena 1881 SRL are leading the way by adopting the EQUALITAS standard, achieving certification for sustainability across every stage of production.
Each year, Serena produces a Sustainability Report under this standard, outlining its environmental, economic and social commitments. Their dedication even extends to innovation: in partnership with Ca’ Foscari University of Venice, they’ve launched The Energy Project – an initiative to transform winemaking waste into renewable energy. Using natural dyes extracted from lees, they’re developing photovoltaic cells that generate green energy, proving that Prosecco can be as forward-thinking as it is enjoyable.
The Rise of Prosecco in Australia
Prosecco has long since moved from being a trend to becoming a staple of the Australian sparkling wine scene. Valued at just $60 million in 2017, the Australian Prosecco market has grown to an estimated $200 million in 2024.
Both Italian imports and Australian-made Prosecco (crafted exclusively from the Glera grape to carry the name) are in demand. Australians love its fresh, bright, easy-drinking style – perfect for our climate, outdoor lifestyle, and food culture. Trends show a shift toward crisper Extra Dry styles as local palates mature, while its versatility in cocktails, especially the spritz, keeps it at the centre of bar and restaurant lists nationwide.
Prosecco has truly become a “must-stock” for cafes, restaurants, and bars – delivering affordability, refreshment, and an approachable sparkling style that resonates with today’s consumers.
Prosecco at Clarity Cru
At Clarity Cru, we’re proud to bring a taste of the UNESCO World Heritage Prosecco Hills to Australian wine lovers. Our range includes:
- Serena 1881 and Serenello – both made within the UNESCO zone, crafted with care and heritage.
- Volparessa Prosecco Extra Dry – an elegant example from nearby Friuli.
In the Australian Prosecco segment, Ms Bella Prosecco offers exceptional value to create cocktails and as an affordable alternative to the UNESCO Italian club.
All are delicious, refreshing, and perfect for spring and summer imbibing.
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