An invitation from the Producers’ Consortium of Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco D.O.C.G. to #SparkleAtHome Liven up your Happy Hour or Meal with bubbly   San Francisco, CA March 19, 2020 – The Consorzio di Tutela del Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco D.O.C.G.  launched a national campaign in Italy recently  to offer some vinous respite during this particularly challenging time. This week on March 19th at 6 PM PST, on their behalf , we are inviting bubbly lovers in the U.S, to start their evening with a glass of wine to lift the mood and remember what is truly important: friendship, love and kindness. In support of Italy, and its great culture and products, we are inviting fans of this specially designated sparkling wine from a UNESCO World Heritage site to #SparkleAtHome. Given the closure of non-essential businesses across several U.S. cities, and to mitigate the adjustment of many to working from home, we invite wine lovers to take a page from the Italian playbook of ending the day with an aperitif, enjoying a glass of Prosecco Superiore DOCG (our personal choice!) or showing your favorite aperitivo.   To support restaurants across the country, many of whom are shifting to a takeout model to stay viable and serve their public,  we are  recommending supporting those restaurants, pairing with your favorite beverage. On March 19th,  the campaign will be kicked off on social media, inviting everyone to stay at home and enjoy an aperitivo, take a photo of  your libation or a pairing of your favorite takeout food enjoyed in the comfort of home, and share it with the hashtag #SparkleAtHome.   Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G., the flagship wine of the Veneto region in Italy, and the one that is most representative of the high elevation winegrowing area, has always been synonymous with aperitif drinks and a convivial atmosphere. We know full well how fundamentally important the ritual of the aperitivo is in Italy, and especially in the regions that have been hardest hit by the epidemic. Let’s stay at home. Let’s create little rituals in our everyday lives: let’s open a bottle as we sit on the couch, alone or with our families. And let’s share this beverage from a storied place – a beverage which is both personal and collective – with our communities on our Twitter, Instagram and Facebook accounts: #SparkleAtHome For more information on the region, its wines and history,or jpegs of images please contact Charles Communications at press@charlescomm.com or 415-701-9463 www.charlescomm.com. The Consorzio di Tutela del Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG is the private body, founded in 1962, that guarantees and controls adherence to the production regulations for D.O.C.G. Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore. The sparkling wines produced on the hillsides between Conegliano and Valdobbiadene, in the Province of Treviso, obtained Denominazione di Origine Controllata status in 1969 and the Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita in 2009. The production zone includes 15 municipal areas: Conegliano, San Vendemiano, Colle Umberto, Vittorio Veneto, Tarzo, Cison di Valmarino, San Pietro di Feletto, Refrontolo, Susegana, Pieve di Soligo, Farra di Soligo, Follina, Miane, Vidor and Valdobbiadene. The Consortium, whose current President is Innocente Nardi, has its headquarters in the village of Solighetto in Pieve di Soligo. It groups together 182 sparkling wine producers and 480 vinifying companies. For the Denomination, this means that there are 3,400 local families involved in producing Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore. It operates principally in three areas: protection and promotion of the product, both in Italy and abroad, encouraging knowledge of the product through educational activities and the organization of events, as well as relations with the press. It also offers technical assistance to its members, from the vineyard to the winery. ###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE                 Conegliano Valdobbiadene announces its first “UNESCO vintage” and promises high quality.  The 2019 vintage for the UNESCO World Heritage Site of the Prosecco Hills of Conegliano Valdobbiadene has lived up to the expectations of the pre-harvest analyses. The region also announces new production regulations for the wines.   Solighetto, November, 2019 – An exceptional qualitative harvest for Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G. concluded in mid-October. The 2019 harvest, the first after receiving recognition from UNESCO as a World Heritage Site this summer, began about ten days later than in recent years, thus reverting to a more traditional time for picking. The grapes were of excellent quality, which was already evident from the pre-harvest forecasts carried out by the analysts of the Producers’ Consortium.   Harvest took place in ideal climatic conditions. The weather in the spring and summer was similarly perfect, ensuring that the grapes attained optimum ripeness and organoleptic development. Measurements indicate an average pH of 3.30 (3.26 in 2018) and acidity of 6.55 (5.92 in 2018), values that are particularly favorable for the production of sparkling wines such as Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G.       “This month we have just spent on the Rive vineyards has been one of intense work; for us vine-growers this is the most important time of the year. The outstanding quality of the 2019 harvest rewards us for the efforts of the entire year, which was enhanced with the accolades from UNESCO, but also the fiftieth anniversary of the Denomination and our region wide ban on glyphosate, which has made us the largest wine zone in Europe to forbid the use of this well-known herbicide,” stated Innocente Nardi, President of the Producers’ Consortium for Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco. Concerning the quantity of grapes that were harvested this year, there was a reduction of 3- 5% compared to 2018 due to hailstorms, which brought yields back to the average of the years preceding.  After a rather cold winter, the zone endured a spring that was cooler and rainier than usual, causing a delay in bud break, which in turn affected the phenological evolution of the vines. This was followed by a summer with typically hot temperatures, which partly allowed the vines to catch up on the phenological development that had been lost back in May. Moreover, the weather remained stable during the period of the harvest, allowing growers to deliver particularly healthy grapes to the wineries. Given the characteristics of the region, whose salient features include very steep slopes and a hilly terrain that is difficult to access with machinery in Conegliano Valdobbiadene. 600-700 hours of manual work are necessary per hectare each year, compared to an average of 150-200 hours on the plain, where mechanization is much more common. As a result, the region's "heroic" harvest represents the period when the growers in the region must demonstrate the most ingenuity. The harvest – as is customary– involved first of all the most easterly zone and slopes with the most exposure to sunlight, such as those at San Pietro di Feletto. This was followed by the more central zone of the Denomination (Refrontolo, Pieve di Soligo, Col San Martino and also the premium-quality Cartizze area) and finally that of Valdobbiadene. Production Regulation Changes Additionally, prior to harvest this year, the region announced new regulations that apply to the wines of Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G. These new Production Regulations for the Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita “Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco” have come into force with their publication on 8th August 2019, and were completely operative as of the 2019 vintage. They allow for: “Sui Lieviti” (“On the Lees/Yeasts”), sparkling wines that have been refermented in bottle. This style pays tribute to a traditional type of product for the zone and to the long history of making sparkling wines in the area. “Extra Brut”, (residual sugar between 0 and 6 gr/lt.). This style is becoming more popular as it highlights the mineral elegance of our top wines, and also appeals to those looking for a more gastronomic style of Prosecco Superiore DOCG. For more information please visit: www.prosecco.it For imagery, interviews and more information, please contact Charles Communications Associates, the marketing agency for the Consorzio in the United States. Kimberly Noelle Charles kcharles@charlescomm.com or 415-701-9463.   About the Consorzio Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G The Consorzio di Tutela del Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G. is the private body, founded in 1962, that guarantees and controls adherence to the production regulations for D.O.C.G. Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore. The sparkling wines produced on the hillsides between Conegliano and Valdobbiadene, in the Province of Treviso, obtained Denominazione di Origine Controllata status in 1969 and the Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita in 2009. The production zone includes 15 municipal areas: Conegliano, San Vendemiano, Colle Umberto, Vittorio Veneto, Tarzo, Cison di Valmarino, San Pietro di Feletto, Refrontolo, Susegana, Pieve di Soligo, Farra di Soligo, Follina, Miane, Vidor and Valdobbiadene. The Consortium, whose current President is Innocente Nardi, has its headquarters in the village of Solighetto in Pieve di Soligo. It groups together 185 sparkling wine producers and includes all the categories in the production chain (vine-growers as well as vinifying and bottling companies). It operates principally in three areas: protection of the product, its promotion, and sustainability of production. It carries out these tasks both in Italy and abroad, promoting knowledge of the product through educational activities, the organization of events and relations with the press.    #  #  #

   The Prosecco Hills of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene proclaimed UNESCO World Heritage Site The region, internationally celebrated for its exceptional wines, to be protected and preserved to ensure its longevity for future generations. SOLIGHETTO, July 8, 2019 – The UNESCO (United Nations Educational, Scientific and Cultural Organization) Assembly has officially declared the Prosecco Hills of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene the 55th Italian "World Heritage Site”. The declaration was made at the 43rd session of World Heritage Committee in Baku, Azerbaijan.   Innocente Nardi, President of the Consortium for the Protection of Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG, expressed “our profound satisfaction and immense joy at the declaration of the Prosecco Hills of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene as a World Heritage Site. In Baku, the Unesco World Assembly bestowed upon our hills this coveted recognition, thereby making them the 55th Italian site to be protected and safeguarded due to the uniqueness of its cultural landscape. It is thanks to the work carried out by an exceptional team led by the governor of the Veneto Region Luca Zaia, with the contribution of the competent Ministries and impeccable work of the scientific committee (chaired by Mauro Agnoletti) and not least, the support of the Italian UNESCO Delegation, that we have achieved this goal. Speaking of goals, this recognition should not be seen as a destination, but merely as an important step on a journey towards enhancing the cultural, artistic, and agricultural heritage of this small area, known for its principal product, Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore.”   The nomination process lasted ten years (in line with the average wait-times experienced by other registered sites). The process saw the emergence of a solid cohesion amongst the interested parties within the Prosecco Hills of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene, from the various municipal administrations and trade associations, to the local entrepreneurs, right down to the area's residents. Nardi said, “It is this enthusiasm and dedication that has enabled us to achieve our objective.”   Nardi credited the producers that make up the Consortium of Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG as the driving force and soul of the nomination every step of the way. “Right from the beginning, and throughout the entire nomination process, they never wavered in their belief in the uniqueness of our landscape, with its vineyard-embroidered hills and inaccessible slopes that require such hard and entirely manual labour. It is the commitment of generations of wine producers working in the vineyards, forging the ‘patchworks’ that we see today, as well as the characteristic ‘ciglioni’ [small plots of vines on narrow grassy terraces] which distinguish our viticulture, and therefore our territory, that has led to UNESCO recognition.”   Nardi added, “As of today, it is the responsibility of us all, but first and foremost that of the Consortium for the Protection of Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG, in harmony with the newly established site management association, to focus on the conservation and maintenance of the registered landscape assets, while paying particular attention to the UNESCO guidelines for their protection and enhancement for future generations, in accordance with the objectives aimed at achieving balanced and harmonious economic and social development.”   The objective of the UNESCO honor involves the sustainable development of the registered area, which will be made possible thanks to a management plan drawn up in agreement between all relevant private and public institutions within the region. For years, the theme of sustainability has been visible in territorial government plans - thanks to the collaboration of entrepreneurs, wine producers and public administration along with the coordination of the Consortium for the Protection of Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco DOCG - for the protection of the local environment and its inhabitants.    Top of the list for the Protection Consortium and the parties involved is the controlled development of tourism in the territory. In fact, particular attention will be paid to tourism because of its positive economic impact, while also focusing on how to sustainably manage the impact of increased travellers to the region.   The Hills of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene is the 10th site in the world to be registered under the category of "cultural landscape," and is characterized by three unique attributes, based on different geomorphological and cultural characteristics, compared to the other eight territories (Alto Douro,Portugal; Tokaj,Hungary; Pico Island,Portugal; Lavaux,Switzerland; Langhe Roero and Monferrato, Italy; Champagne, France; Burgundy, France; Saint-Emilion, France; Wachau, Austria). All ten of these sites are “evolutionary cultural landscapes, visible results of the interaction - a vital, constantly evolving interaction-, between man and the environment.”   "I am extremely proud because UNESCO recognition is confirmation of the unique value of the Hills of Conegliano and Valdobbiadene landscape, fruit of man's work in harmony with nature," concluded Nardi.   About the Consorzio di Tutela del Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG The Consorzio di Tutela del Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG is the private body, founded in 1962, that guarantees and controls adherence to the production regulations for D.O.C.G. Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore. The sparkling wines produced on the hillsides between Conegliano and Valdobbiadene, in the Province of Treviso, obtained Denominazione di Origine Controllata status in 1969 and the Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita in 2009. The production zone includes 15 municipal areas: Conegliano, San Vendemiano, Colle Umberto, Vittorio Veneto, Tarzo, Cison di Valmarino, San Pietro di Feletto, Refrontolo, Susegana, Pieve di Soligo, Farra di Soligo, Follina, Miane, Vidor and Valdobbiadene. The Consortium, whose current President is Innocente Nardi, has its headquarters in the village of Solighetto in Pieve di Soligo. It groups together 185 sparkling wine producers and includes all the categories in the production chain (vine-growers as well as vinifying and bottling companies). It operates principally in three areas: protection of the product, its promotion, and sustainability of production. It carries out these tasks both in Italy and abroad, promoting knowledge of the product through educational activities, the organization of events and relations with the press.   Connect with the Consorzio on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, or visit prosecco.it to learn more about the region and its sparkling wines.  For interviews, imagery, more information, please contact:   Kimberly Noelle Charles at press@charlescomm.com or (415) 701-9463. Photo credit for above photos: Arcangelo Piai.   ###

   Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G. Announces Total Ban on the Use of Glyphosate Conegliano Valdobbiadene is the largest zone in Europe to ban the controversial chemical weed killer ingredient   SOLIGHETTO, June 5, 2019 – The Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G. announced a complete ban on the use of glyphosate in the ninth edition of its Viticultural Protocol document, which was presented in Treviso. The Viticultural Protocol is a document that proposes and promotes a virtuous system of integrated pest and disease control for vines.  In 2019, it reached its most significant goal: a total ban on the use of glyphosate, regardless of whether Italian and European regulations still define it as a legal substance. Conegliano Valdobbiadene is the largest zone in Europe to forbid the use of glyphosate, the most controversial chemical substance of the last few years, which continues to be utilized in a very large number of agricultural areas in Italy and around Europe. This ban is the result of a long and detailed process of synergy and cooperation, between the local councils of the 15 Municipalities within the Denomination and the Producers’ Consortium.   2019 also marks the year that the Consortium celebrates its fiftieth anniversary, and the Denomination of Conegliano Valdobbiadene is thrilled to mark the occasion by finally attaining this, its most important objective, and is making plans for environmental certification.   As usual, the presentation of the Protocol is also an opportunity for the Consortium to take stock of the results that have been achieved, but also to look towards the future and decide on what the next steps will be.   “This edition of the Viticultural Protocol is very important for us,” affirms Innocente Nardi, President of the Producers’ Consortium. “First of all because the ban on the use of glyphosate makes the indications we give to the growers with regard to alternative vineyard management methods, such as mechanical mowing, increasingly necessary. But we particularly consider this ban on glyphosate, imposed by the local governments within the Denomination, to be an objective reached thanks to the constant dialogue there has been between the Consortium and these bodies. Our area is a unique laboratory for environmental sustainability in Italy, due to its ability to include all of the actors involved. Further proof of this synergy is the gradual adoption - by all of the communes in the Denomination - of the advice contained in the Consortium’s Viticultural Protocol when drawing up their individual municipal regulations regarding the countryside.”   The Viticultural Protocol has, since its launch in 2011, gradually become an increasingly significant point of reference for the Consortium’s members, and is the cornerstone of the sustainability-related activity of the Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Consortium. The results obtained are due to its wide acceptance are leading growers to take further steps forward on the path towards sustainability.   The Various Stages of the Viticultural Protocol The goal of the Viticultural Protocol is to progressively eliminate practices and substances that are considered to have too great an environmental impact – even if they are still permitted under the Italian and European regulations – and, on the other hand, promote forms of agriculture that are as non-invasive as possible, thus pre-empting by several years the virtuous process that leads towards sustainability. The publication of the Protocol and its gradual adoption by the 185 companies belonging to the Producers’ Consortium have contributed to making the subject of agricultural sustainability a deeply-rooted one among the growers in the zone.   The exclusion of all formulations containing products based on Folpet, Mancozeb, Dithianon and various other substances (whose use current laws would have allowed) dates back to 2013, and similar measures were put through in 2016. In 2018, the decision of the local administrations to ban glyphosate was approved. With this new edition, the Consortium is putting its “no” to glyphosate into practice, as well as reiterating the need for integrated pest and disease control and providing certain measures for activating it.   One of the functions of the Viticultural Protocol is to put the grower in a position of being able to use the various methods of vineyard management - whether they be chemical or organic – based on the real needs of the vines and of the terrain at any given time. In order to do this, technical and technological instruments for gathering data have been activated for some time. These instruments constantly “photograph” the current situation in the vineyard. This snapshot is then conveyed by the Consortium to the growers so that they can choose the action to take in the field that will have the least impact on the environment.   S.Q.N.P.I. Certification The next step towards an even more sustainable Denomination will be S.Q.N.P.I (Sistema Qualità Nazionale Produzione Integrata) Certification of the various estates in the Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco D.O.C.G. Denomination, for which all the necessary documentation is already being prepared. This is a system that takes into account all the methods of production and defense of crops against adversities, so as to reduce to a minimum the use in the vineyard of synthetic chemical substances and also rationalize the practice of fertilization.   In order to obtain and maintain certification, control activities will be organized, such as the implementation of a significant number of analyses on the grapes produced, aimed at ascertaining what the actual use of chemical substances in the vineyard has been.   This certification represents a great opportunity for the region, in particular because it translates into an increase in the perceived value of the Denomination. Specifically, two objectives are being targeted: certifying 25% of those taking part by 2021 and increasing certifications by 10% in each subsequent year.   All the vinifying and bottling companies will be able to participate in the project, and will therefore have the possibility of using the “bee” logo on their products. The Consortium has involved Valoritalia s.r.l. as the certifying body.   About the Consorzio di Tutela del Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG The Consorzio di Tutela del Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG is the private body, founded in 1962, that guarantees and controls adherence to the production regulations for D.O.C.G. Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore. The sparkling wines produced on the hillsides between Conegliano and Valdobbiadene, in the Province of Treviso, obtained Denominazione di Origine Controllata status in 1969 and the Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita in 2009. The production zone includes 15 municipal areas: Conegliano, San Vendemiano, Colle Umberto, Vittorio Veneto, Tarzo, Cison di Valmarino, San Pietro di Feletto, Refrontolo, Susegana, Pieve di Soligo, Farra di Soligo, Follina, Miane, Vidor and Valdobbiadene. The Consortium, whose current President is Innocente Nardi, has its headquarters in the village of Solighetto in Pieve di Soligo. It groups together 185 sparkling wine producers and includes all the categories in the production chain (vine-growers as well as vinifying and bottling companies). It operates principally in three areas: protection of the product, its promotion, and sustainability of production. It carries out these tasks both in Italy and abroad, promoting knowledge of the product through educational activities, the organization of events and relations with the press.   Connect with the Consorzio on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, or visit prosecco.it to learn more about the region and its sparkling wines.  For interviews, imagery, more information, please contact:   Kimberly Noelle Charles at press@charlescomm.com or (415) 701-9463. ###

    FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Kimberly Noelle Charles  Charles Communications Associates 415.701.9463 | press@charlescomm.com                       Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G. Announces 2019 Communications Campaign for US Audience   SAN FRANCISCO, May 6, 2019 – The Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G. is pleased to announce its 2019 communications program for the United States. The Consorzio of vine-growers, winemaking companies and bottlers from Italy’s Conegliano Valdobbiadene, which was established to safeguard the standards of what eventually became the D.O.C.G criteria in crafting wines of the highest quality and distinct provenance, is celebrating the 50th anniversary of the appellation. Their mission is to increase appellational recognition of D.O.C.G. Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore and its nuanced, complex, world-class sparkling wines. The United States is the 4th largest importer of Prosecco Superiore, and the Consorzio hopes to further engage its loyal audience while introducing new sparkling wine lovers to the D.O.C.G. category.   The aim is to educate the trade and public about everything D.O.C.G. Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore has to offer - regionality, authenticity, and high standards in winegrowing and winemaking. For example, many consumers don’t realize that only D.O.C.G. Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore includes the Cartizze (aka the “Grand Cru” of Conegliano Valdobbiadene) and the Rive, category which can come from the steep hillsides and embody impressively perceptible terroir differences.   The Consorzio also hopes to attract new consumers with a greater emphasis on its unparalleled quality-to-price ratios. Though Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G. wines tend to be priced slightly higher than traditional Prosecco, the wines are still immensely affordable given the quality, making them desirable for a range of consumers.  The wines are relatively low in alcohol as well, and offer a range of styles, dosage and terroir, all of which boost D.O.C.G. Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore’s appeal to an increasingly health-conscious society as well as its enhancing ability to pair with a host of cuisines.    The trade campaign will include working with three well-respected sommelier ambassadors including Amy Elizabeth Thurmond of Leuca in Brooklyn, New York, Jennifer Wagoner of Sepia and Proxi in Chicago and Iris Rowlee of Perbacco and Barbacco in San Francisco.  Their work will include spokesperson roles, an in-depth restaurant educational program and participation in targeted trade events. The press campaign includes a series of events, a sampling program, social media engagement and ongoing press outreach. The advertising campaign is focused on online partnerships with key wine and food influencers.     “We are excited to launch such a strategic and comprehensive communications campaign effectively targeting both trade and press," says Innocente Nardi, President of the Consorzio of Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G. “The US is an extremely important market for our top quality, world class sparkling wines.”    The list of Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G. wineries that will participate in the US communications campaign include Adami, Andreola, Astoria, Bacio Della Luna, Bellenda, Biancavigna,  Bortolin Angelo, Bortolomiol, Bortolotti, Canevel, Cantine Vedova, Col Sandago, Col Vetoraz, Conte Collalto, Drusian, Il Colle, La Farra, La Marca, La Vigna di Sarah, Le Colture, Malibràn, Masottina, Mionetto, Montelvini, Perlage, Sanfeletto, Santa Margherita, Sommariva, Tenuta 2 Castelli, Tenuta Degli Ultimi, Toffoli, and Valdo.   About the Consorzio of Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G.   The Consorzio is a private body created to represent vine-growers, winemaking companies and bottlers from Conegliano Valdobbiadene and to safeguard the standards of what are now the D.O.C.G. criteria in crafting wines of the highest quality and distinct provenance. Their work is focused on three major areas: protection, promotion and sustainability. They improve sparkling production methods, provide assistance and training and supervise all stages of winemaking to guarantee the quality of this outstanding, Italian viticultural region. Prosecco Superiore exports to over 140 countries of which the United States ranks 4th with 3 million bottles (out of a total 33 million bottles) with a value of over $14 million.   Created in 1969, Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore was one of the first Italian appellations to earn D.O.C recognition, obtaining the D.O.C.G. status in 2009. These sparkling wines come from the historic area of Prosecco production, a unique, hillside terroir that is now in line to be recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Conegliano Valdobbiadene is situated in the northeast of Italy, between Venice and the Dolomites (at the foothills of the Alps), offering a mild, temperate climate ideal for grape growing, producing serious food wines with pairing versatility, showcasing a range of different styles, aroma and flavor characteristics.     Connect with the Consorzio on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, or visit prosecco.it to learn more about the region and its sparkling wines.  About Charles Communications Associates Founded in 2003, Charles Communications Associates, LLC (CCA) is an independent creative marketing communications and public relations firm based in San Francisco, California, that helps local and global companies create, build, and launch brands. Recognized as one of the most effective marketing firms in the wine industry, CCA is also known for success in the gourmet, natural, and organic food and beverage categories, as well as for top shelf spirits and luxury products marketing. Please socialize with us @CharlesComm on Twitter, and @AlltheSwirl on Instagram and Facebook.   For interviews, imagery, more information, please contact:   Kimberly Noelle Charles at Charles Communications Associates: press@charlescomm.com or (415) 701-9463.   ###  

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Kimberly Noelle Charles  Charles Communications Associates 415.701.9463 | press@charlescomm.com                       Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G. Announces Winners of  2018 Sommelier-Targeted Contests   *** Winning sommeliers from San Francisco and New York City to visit  the Conegliano Valdobbiadene area during the 50th Anniversary of its Appellation Designation     SAN FRANCISCO, March 14, 2019 – Charles Communications Associates, the agency of record for the Consorzio of Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G., is pleased to announce the winners of the Consorzio’s two inaugural national contests, an Instagram and essay competition, targeting active U.S. sommeliers, wine buyers and beverage directors.   Kassandra McPherson Sommelier at the Lazy Bear in San Francisco was selected as the winner of the Instagram competition and Evan White Sommelier at Babbo Ristorante in New York City was chosen as the winner of the essay contest.  Ms. McPherson and Mr. White will travel to Conegliano Valdobbiadene to tour the vineyards and meet with producers of Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G in the coming months. The region is the historic heart and pinnacle of Italy’s Prosecco region, located 45 minutes west of Venice in the foothills of the Dolomiti mountains.  2019 marks the 50th anniversary of the region’s D.O.C.G. appellation designation.   The two contests, an Instagram and essay competition, were a key part of the region’s trade-focused campaign designed to educate and inform beverage professionals about the legacy of leadership, tradition and dedication to quality of the Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G. region.  For the Instagram competition, active sommeliers, wine buyers or directors in the U.S entered the competition between July 31 and January 15 through posting a photo of Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G. alone or with a dish including a pairing note or caption along with the requested hashtags and tags. McPherson’s winning post was drawn from among the entrants, also of note, she was a runner up for the essay contest as well.   Entrants to the essay contest (also required to be active sommeliers, wine buyers or directors in the U.S) submitted 1000 words addressing how Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G. can be better integrated into beverage programs, wine lists and fine retail stores, targeting the buying audience. White’s winning essay will be published in the April 2019 issue of the Sommelier Journal.  About the Consorzio of Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G.   The Consorzio is a private body created to represent vine-growers, winemaking companies and bottlers from Conegliano Valdobbiadene and to safeguard the standards of the D.O.C.G. criteria in crafting wines of the highest quality and distinct provenance. Their work is focused on three major areas: protection, promotion and sustainability. They improve sparkling production methods, provide assistance and training and supervise all stages of winemaking to guarantee the quality of this outstanding, Italian viticultural region. Prosecco Superiore exports to over 140 countries of which the United States ranks 4thwith over 3 million bottles (out of a total 36,3 million bottles) with a value of $18 million.    Created in 1969, Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore was one of the first Italian appellations, obtaining the D.O.C.G. status in 2009. These sparkling wines come from the historic area of Prosecco production, a unique, hillside terroir that is now a strong candidate to be recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Conegliano Valdobbiadene is situated in the northeast of Italy, between Venice and the Dolomites (at the foothills of the Alps), offering a mild, temperate climate ideal for grape growing, producing serious food wines with pairing versatility, showcasing a range of different styles, aromas and flavor characteristics.  Connect with the Consorzio on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, or visit prosecco.it to learn more about the region and its sparkling wines.  About Charles Communications Associates  Founded in 2003, Charles Communications Associates, LLC (CCA) is an independent creative marketing communications and public relations firm based in San Francisco, California, which helps local and global companies create, reposition, and launch brands. Recognized as one of the most effective marketing firms in the wine industry, CCA is also known for success in the gourmet, natural, and organic food and beverage categories, as well as for top shelf spirits and luxury products marketing. Please socialize with us on  Facebook and Instagram @AlltheSwirl and Twitter @CharlesComm. Discover more at charlescomm.com.     For interviews, imagery, more information, please contact:   Kimberly Noelle Charles or Rachel Chittick at press@charlescomm.com or (415) 701-9463.   ###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE July 31, 2018 Contact: Kimberly Noelle Charles or Erin Hunt Moore press@charlescomm.com or (415) 701-9463     Contest Alert! Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G. Announces Two  Sommelier-Targeted Contests  Winners to Visit the Historic Heart of Italy’s Prosecco Superiore Region during the  50th Anniversary of its Appellation Designation    SAN FRANCISCO, July 31, 2018 – Charles Communications Associates announces on behalf of its client, The Consorzio of Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G., the launch of two national contests for active U.S. sommeliers, wine buyers or beverage directors – offering winners the opportunity to win a trip to Conegliano Valdobbiadene, the historic heart and pinnacle of Italy’s Prosecco region, located 45 minutes west of Venice in the foothills of the Italian Alps. 2019 marks the 50th anniversary of the region’s D.O.C.G. appellation designation.   The two contests: an essay and Instagram competition, respectively, are a key part of the region’s trade-focused campaign designed to educate and inform beverage professionals about the legacy of leadership, tradition and dedication to quality of the Prosecco Superiore region.   CONTEST DETAILS:    Instagram Contest:  Active sommeliers, wine buyers or directors in the U.S can enter the competition by posting a photo of Prosecco Superiore alone or with a dish including a pairing note or caption, tagging @proseccocv and including #proseccosuperiore #proseccosuperioredocg #proseccoelevated #Somminstapic and that person will be entered to win an all-expenses paid, three-day trip to Conegliano Valdobbiadene in 2019, including airfare, accommodation and producer visits as a guest of the Consorzio. Candidates need to be working actively in their place of business as an employee or consultant.     Sommelier Essay Contest:   The Consorzio is also pleased to offer an opportunity to submit an essay of 1000 words on the subject of how Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G. can be better integrated into beverage programs, wine lists and fine retail stores. The essay would be targeted to the buying audience, in essence, a business to business story. The winning essay writer will receive a 3-day trip to the region in 2019 including airfare, accommodation and producer visits as a guest of the Consorzio.  In addition, the winning essay will be published in the February/March 2019 issue of the Sommelier Journal.  As with the Instagram contest, candidates need to be working actively in their place of business as an employee or consultant.     Timing for Winner Selection: The contests will run from August 1, through November 30, 2018. The winner(s) will be selected and contacted by January 15, 2019.   Connect with the Consorzio on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, or visit prosecco.it to learn more about the region and its sparkling wines.   About the Consorzio of Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G.    The Consorzio is a private body created to represent vine-growers, winemaking companies and bottlers from Conegliano Valdobbiadene and to safeguard the standards of the D.O.C.G. criteria in crafting wines of the highest quality and distinct provenance. Their work is focused on three major areas: protection, promotion and sustainability. They improve sparkling production methods, provide assistance and training and supervise all stages of winemaking to guarantee the quality of this outstanding, Italian viticultural region. Prosecco Superiore exports to over 130 countries of which the United States ranks 5th with over 2.76 million bottles (out of a total 35.8 million bottles) with a value of $17.12 million.   Created in 1969, Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore was one of the first Italian appellations, obtaining the D.O.C.G. status in 2009. These sparkling wines come from the historic area of Prosecco production, a unique, hillside terroir that is now a strong candidate to be recognized as a UNESCO World Heritage Site. Conegliano Valdobbiadene is situated in the northeast of Italy, between Venice and the Dolomites (at the foothills of the Alps), offering a mild, temperate climate ideal for grape growing, producing serious food wines with pairing versatility, showcasing a range of different styles, aromas and flavor characteristics.   About Charles Communications Associates Founded in 2003, Charles Communications Associates, LLC (CCA) is an independent creative marketing communications and public relations firm based in San Francisco, California, that helps local and global companies create, build, and launch brands. Recognized as one of the most effective marketing firms in the wine industry, CCA is also known for success in the gourmet, natural, and organic food and beverage categories, as well as for top shelf spirits and luxury products marketing. Please socialize with us on  Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Discover more at charlescomm.com.   For more information, please contact:  Kimberly Noelle Charles or Erin Hunt Moore press@charlescomm.com or (415) 701-9463 ###

FOR IMMEDIATE RELEASE Contact: Louise Jordan  Charles Communications Associates 415.701.9463 | press@charlescomm.com                                  Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G. Announces  New US Communications Campaign Charles Communications Associates Named Agency of Record   SAN FRANCISCO, March 28, 2018 -- The Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G. announces that Charles Communications Associates (CCA) is now their agency of record for the United States. The Consortium is a private body created to represent vine-growers, winemaking companies and bottlers from Conegliano Valdobbiadene and to safeguard the standards of the D.O.C.G. criteria in crafting wines of the highest quality and distinct provenance. Their work is focused on three major areas: protection, promotion and sustainability. They improve sparkling production methods, provide assistance and training and supervise all stages of winemaking to guarantee the quality of this outstanding, Italian viticultural region. Prosecco Superiore exports to over 130 countries of which the United States ranks 5th with over 2.76 million bottles (out of a total 35.8 million bottles) with a value of $17.12 million.   Created in 1969, Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore was one of the first Italian appellations, obtaining the D.O.C.G. status in 2009. These sparkling wines come from the historic area of Prosecco production, a unique, hillside terroir that is now in line to be recognized as a Unesco World Heritage Site. Conegliano Valdobbiadene is situated in the northeast of Italy, between Venice and the Dolomites (at the foothills of the Alps), offering a mild, temperate climate ideal for grape growing, producing serious food wines with pairing versatility, showcasing a range of different styles, aroma and flavor characteristics.   The trade campaign will include working with two well-respected sommelier ambassadors in New York City and San Francisco, an in-depth restaurant educational program and participation in targeted trade events. The press campaign has a series of events, a sampling program, social media engagement and ongoing press outreach. The advertising campaign is focused on online partnerships with key wine and food influencers.   “We are excited to launch such a strategic and comprehensive communications campaign effectively targeting both trade and press," says Innocente Nardi, President of the Consortium of Conegliano Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore D.O.C.G. “The US is an extremely important market for our top quality, world class sparkling wines.”   Connect with the Consortium on Facebook, Twitter and Instagram, or visit prosecco.it to learn more about the region and its sparkling wines.   About Charles Communications Associates Founded in 2003, Charles Communications Associates, LLC (CCA) is an independent creative marketing communications and public relations firm based in San Francisco, California, that helps local and global companies create, build, and launch brands. Recognized as one of the most effective marketing firms in the wine industry, CCA is also known for success in the gourmet, natural, and organic food and beverage categories, as well as for top shelf spirits and luxury products marketing.   Please socialize with us on  Facebook, Twitter and Instagram. Discover more at charlescomm.com.   For more information, please contact:  Kimberly Charles DipWSET or Louise Jordan DipWSET press@charlescomm.com or (415) 701.9463 www.charlescomm.com ###