What does "vino spumante" refer to?

"Vino spumante" is the Italian term for sparkling wine. This category of wine is characterized by its effervescence, which is created by the presence of dissolved carbon dioxide. Sparkling wines undergo a secondary fermentation process, either in the bottle or in large tanks, resulting in the bubbles that are associated with them.

In Italy, famously known for producing various types of sparkling wines, "vino spumante" includes well-known varieties such as Prosecco, Franciacorta, and Asti Spumante. Each of these wines is celebrated for their unique production methods and flavor profiles, contributing to Italy's reputation as a key producer of sparkling wines in the world.

The other options refer to different styles of wine: red wine consists of dark-colored grapes and has no carbonation; white wine is made from green or yellowish grapes, typically without bubbles; and fortified wine has added spirits, elevating its alcohol content but not inherently making it sparkling. Thus, "vino spumante" distinctly identifies the category of sparkling wine.