Understanding 20cl in Milliliters
Before calculating the number of glasses, it's essential to convert the volume from centiliters (cl) to milliliters (ml), the more common unit for measuring liquid volume in glassware. The conversion is straightforward: 1 centiliter equals 10 milliliters. Therefore, 20cl is equivalent to 200ml (20 x 10). This 200ml volume is often called a 'piccolo' or 'split' bottle in the sparkling wine world, specifically designed for a single or double serving.
The Standard Prosecco Serving
The standard serving size for a glass of sparkling wine like Prosecco is generally considered to be 125ml (about 4 ounces) in many parts of the UK and Europe. This volume is the ideal amount to appreciate the wine's effervescence and aromatics without overfilling the glass. When you pour a 125ml serving, you will get the following from a 20cl bottle:
- Total volume: 200ml
- Serving size: 125ml
- Calculation: 200ml / 125ml = 1.6 glasses
This means a 20cl bottle is essentially one generous serving with a little extra left over. For most practical purposes, especially when serving guests, it is considered a single serving.
The Toast Serving
For a special occasion where you are simply toasting rather than having a full glass, the portion size is smaller. A typical toast pour is around 100ml. This is a smaller, more modest serving, designed to make the bubbles go further. For a toast-sized serving, the yield is different:
- Total volume: 200ml
- Toast serving size: 100ml
- Calculation: 200ml / 100ml = 2 glasses
This is why a 20cl bottle is often advertised as a 'two-glass' option, though the glasses will not be full.
How Glassware Affects the Pour
The type of glass you use will significantly influence the number of glasses you can pour. Tall, narrow flute glasses are standard for Prosecco, as their shape helps preserve the bubbles and concentrate the aromas. However, other glassware like coupes or tulip glasses will change the outcome.
- Flute Glass: A typical flute holds around 180ml, but is traditionally filled to 125ml. Pouring a 200ml bottle into two glasses of this type would mean only partially filling them for a toast.
- Coupe Glass: These wide, shallow glasses cause bubbles to dissipate more quickly but allow for a larger aroma surface. A generous pour into a coupe might consume the entire 20cl in one serving.
- Tulip Glass: Similar to a flute but with a wider bowl, these are often preferred by connoisseurs for better aromatics. Like a flute, the pour can be controlled for single or double servings.
Comparison of Prosecco Serving Sizes
| Serving Size | Volume in ml | Glasses from 20cl | Description |
|---|---|---|---|
| Standard Pour | 125ml | 1.6 glasses | A standard, satisfying serving often found in restaurants. |
| Toast Pour | 100ml | 2 glasses | A smaller, more ceremonial portion for a toast. |
| Generous Pour | 200ml | 1 glass | A full bottle for one person, often used in cocktails or for personal consumption. |
Tips for Serving Prosecco from a Piccolo Bottle
When dealing with smaller 20cl bottles, precision is key to getting the most out of your bubbly. Here are a few tips:
- Chill thoroughly: Make sure the bottle is well-chilled before opening to minimize the fizz overflowing. This helps with a clean pour.
- Pour slowly: Tilt the glass at an angle and pour slowly to reduce foaming. This is especially important for smaller bottles where every drop counts.
- Use a small glass: If you are determined to get two servings, use a smaller glass or measure your 100ml portions precisely.
- Consider cocktails: The 20cl bottle is the perfect size for a single-serving cocktail like an Aperol Spritz. Use half the bottle for the cocktail and have the rest on the side.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the number of glasses you get from 20cl of Prosecco depends on your intended serving size. For a standard 125ml pour, you will get just over one glass, making it a generous single serving. For a more conservative 100ml toast pour, you can achieve two glasses. The piccolo bottle offers a convenient way to enjoy Prosecco for a smaller, more personal occasion without opening a full 75cl bottle. Understanding the volume and your ideal serving size allows for better planning and less waste, ensuring you get the perfect amount of bubbly for your needs.
Sparkling Direct has further information on serving sizes from standard bottles.