Bottega Bubbles to the Aviation Top with Sustainability and Innovation
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Bottega, a leader in premium Prosecco, sparkling wines, and spirits, welcomed the International Flight Services Association (IFSA) Board of Directors to its headquarters in Bibano di Godega di Sant’Urbano, Italy, for a two-day board strategic planning meeting. After completing work, the board gained firsthand insight yesterday afternoon in an expansive tour of Bottega’s eco-friendly production methods, its significant presence in travel retail and inflight service, and its dedication to the highest quality for aviation service.
A Legacy of Craftsmanship and Sustainability
The IFSA Board’s afternoon excursion began in Bottega’s vineyards, where Owner and Managing Director Sandro Bottega described the unique terroir that shapes the company’s wines. The steep hills and microclimate of the Prosecco region create ideal conditions for cultivating Glera grapes, the foundation of Bottega’s sparkling wines.
“We only use natural methods,” Sandro Bottega emphasized, highlighting the company’s commitment to sustainability. “Our vineyards are completely herbicide-free, and we rely on organic fertilization by mulching grape skins back into the soil. This protects the roots from extreme weather while maintaining the purity of the land.”
Bottega’s vineyards receive an average of 1100 millimeters of rainfall annually, requiring meticulous vineyard management to avoid artificial fertilizers and chemicals. Each vine is pruned by hand, a labor-intensive process that ensures only the highest-quality grapes make it to production.
Sustainability Drives Innovation
Inside the winery, the IFSA Board witnessed Bottega’s state-of-the-art fermentation and bottling processes, designed to maximize efficiency while preserving the wine’s integrity. The facility operates using geothermal energy for climate control, significantly reducing its carbon footprint.
“Our entire production system is built around sustainability,” Bottega stated. “From recycled glass in our bottles to energy-efficient production, we focus on quality without compromising environmental responsibility.”
Bottega produces approximately 27 million bottles annually, with approximately 10% of its output dedicated to the travel retail sector, including airlines, cruise lines, and duty-free markets. The expansive offerings now fly on 75 airlines worldwide and 242 cruise ships, solidifying the brand’s reputation as a dominant force in the inflight beverage industry. Beyond Prosecco, Bottega has built an extensive portfolio of 82 different products, reflecting its versatility in winemaking and spirits. This includes 11 Proseccos, 10 sparkling wines, 25 still wines, 20 liqueurs, 15 types of grappa, and six premixed cocktails, each crafted with Bottega’s signature commitment to authenticity, innovation, and sustainability.
The company’s sustainability initiatives extend across every aspect of production. Bottega’s facilities run entirely on geothermal and alternative energy sources, while its bottles are made with 85–95% recycled glass. The company follows a zero-waste philosophy, repurposing grape pomace for grappa distillation and ensuring that no production materials go unused. Vineyards are cultivated organically, eliminating the need for artificial chemicals, and water-based varnishes replace traditional chemical coatings on Bottega’s signature gold bottles. With a firm commitment to eco-conscious packaging, Bottega also uses cartons sourced from sustainably managed forests and participates in recycling initiatives to minimize environmental impact.
A Sustainable Future for Prosecco in Aviation
One of the key topics during the visit was the future of sustainable wine production and its impact on the airline industry. Bottega has taken a leadership role in reducing waste and implementing eco-friendly practices across its operations.
Corporate Sommelier and Wine Trainer Elena Schipani, who has been with Bottega for 24 years, shared insights into the company’s long-standing commitment to sustainability. Beginning her career in Bottega’s accounting department after earning her degree in economics, Schipani later transitioned into her passion for wine, becoming a certified sommelier and expert in sparkling wine production.
“We recycle 100% of our production materials, from grape skins to packaging,” Schipani explained. “Sustainability isn’t a trend for us; it’s in our DNA.”
As a pioneer in the zero-alcohol sector, Bottega has also introduced non-alcoholic versions of its iconic wines and liqueurs. “We’ve recently obtained halal certification for our Limoncino,” Bottega announced. “We see tremendous potential in the non-alcoholic category, especially for regions where alcohol consumption is limited.”
The Grand Tasting: IFSA Board Samples Bottega’s Finest
The visit culminated in a carefully curated tasting of Bottega’s most refined Prosecco selections. Schipani guided the IFSA Board through an experience that showcased the evolution of Prosecco through extended fermentation and aging techniques.
“Prosecco is often perceived as an easy-drinking wine,” Schipani remarked, “but our long Charmat method adds layers of complexity and aging potential.”
The selections presented to the IFSA Board and staff included:
- Gold Cru (Retail: €29) – Vintage 2022
A fresh and vibrant Prosecco aged for four months, offering crisp acidity and a clean, elegant finish. - Gold Extra Brut (Retail: €36) – Vintage 2022
A refined expression with extended fermentation (six months), delivering greater depth and complexity while maintaining a bone-dry character. - Gold Diamond (Retail: €49) – Vintage 2022
A premium Prosecco with a longer fermentation process that enhances its structure and mouthfeel, making it a standout selection for premium inflight service. - Black Stardust (Retail: €119) – Vintage 2021
A luxurious Prosecco aged for nine months, offering rich layers of pear, brioche, and delicate minerality, with fine, persistent bubbles. - Gold Stardust (Retail: €250) – Vintage 2021
The pinnacle of Bottega’s Prosecco craftsmanship, aged 12 months for remarkable depth, complexity, and an ultra-fine mousse.
Elevating Prosecco’s Global Reputation in Travel
Throughout the tasting, the conversation turned to how Prosecco is often undervalued compared to Champagne. “Prosecco deserves better recognition,” Bottega asserted. “Our Glera grapes adapt uniquely to our terroir, creating wines with natural freshness and balanced acidity. We want to elevate its reputation globally.”
The company’s presence in travel retail extends beyond inflight service. Bottega operates 38 Bottega Prosecco Bars in major airports and cities worldwide, offering travelers an authentic Italian aperitivo experience. These outlets provide a curated selection of Prosecco, paired with gourmet bites designed to enhance the drinking experience.
“The goal is to educate consumers,” Bottega explained. “We want travelers to experience the perfect wine and food pairing, just as they would in Italy.”
Looking Ahead: Innovation and Tradition Hand in Hand
As the IFSA’s Board visit concluded, Sandro Bottega reflected on the company’s journey from a small family business to a globally recognized brand. “We are an industry, but also craftsmen,” he said. “We blend tradition with innovation, always keeping quality at the heart of what we do.”
Bottega’s expansive product line will proudly be featured in Europe at WTCE in Hamburg from April 8 to 10 and then prominently in the Americas at IFSA Global EXPO in Los Angeles at the Long Beach Convention Center from September 9 to 11.
“Bottega’s commitment to incredible products for aviation developed with meticulous sustainability speaks volumes to their love for our industry,” IFSA CEO Dr. Joe Leader stated. “Learning today that Bottega Gold Prosecco stands as the number one selling duty-free sparkling wine in the world demonstrates how an amazing passenger experience product served inflight translates into incredible demand on the ground.”