The world of Italian wine came to life last Sunday at La Disfida in Haberfield, one of Sydney’s most authentic Italian restaurants. Guests joined Sommelier Daniel Marcella for an immersive Prosecco lunch experience, discovering the elegance, culture, and craftsmanship behind Col Vetoraz Prosecco Superiore DOCG — one of Valdobbiadene and Conegliano’s most iconic producers.
The event celebrated the harmony between Italian wine education and fine dining. Under the guidance of restaurant manager Simone, guests were welcomed to a relaxed and intimate setting, perfectly capturing the spirit of La Dolce Vita. As each glass was poured, a new chapter of the Prosecco story unfolded — from its roots in the UNESCO-protected hills of Valdobbiadene to the refined art of balancing residual sugar, acidity, and texture.
This was not just a tasting; it was a masterclass in premium Prosecco, designed to challenge preconceptions and showcase the extraordinary potential of Italy’s most loved sparkling wine. Participants explored how different levels of residual sugar influence structure, mouthfeel, and food pairing potential. Starting from the Dry Prosecco, a style that surprised many for its depth and complexity, the experience evolved through Extra Dry and Brut expressions, culminating in the prestigious Cartizze Prosecco, the jewel of Valdobbiadene.
Throughout the lunch, Daniel highlighted the importance of understanding terroir, altitude, and vineyard exposure. The vineyards of Col Vetoraz rise up to 400 metres above sea level, creating a perfect microclimate where cool nights and warm days enhance aromatic expression. These natural conditions, combined with the meticulous work of the Miotto family since 1838, result in wines that embody both precision and passion.
What captivated guests most was the refined texture of Col Vetoraz — the fine, silky bubbles, the creamy mousse, and the purity of fruit that lingered gracefully. Unlike many commercial Proseccos, these wines were balanced, elegant, and gastronomic, showing how high-quality Prosecco can truly elevate a dining experience. From antipasto to dessert, each glass found harmony with the flavours on the table.
As Daniel shared, the art of Prosecco lies not only in its freshness but in its versatility. A premium Prosecco like Col Vetoraz is not limited to aperitivo moments; it can pair beautifully with seafood, delicate pastas, and even spicy dishes where Champagne might feel too austere. The tasting demonstrated how Prosecco Superiore DOCG can be both luxurious and approachable — an authentic reflection of Italian craftsmanship and culture.
The Sunday lunch also became a beautiful reminder of community. Surrounded by fellow Italian wine lovers, guests experienced a sense of connection and discovery that reflects the purpose behind Sommelier Daniel Marcella’s SDM Community — to bring people together through Italian wine, education, and lifestyle.
As the afternoon came to a close, glasses sparkled with the golden reflections of Valdobbiadene’s hills, leaving everyone inspired and eager for more. The event marked another milestone in Daniel’s journey to share the true soul of Italian wine with Australia — from the vineyards of Friuli and Piemonte to the volcanic soils of Campania.
The next chapter begins soon. On Sunday, November 16, 2025, Daniel will host a new experience dedicated to Mastroberardino Wines — one of the most historic and influential wine families in Italy. This event will explore the cultural and historical heritage of Campania, showcasing wines that defined entire generations of winemaking tradition.
Seats for the next Italian wine lunch in Sydney are limited and will sell fast.
Join us for another extraordinary event that celebrates Italian wine, cuisine, and culture — a sensory journey where education meets pleasure, and every glass tells a story.
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