Breganze DOC is a dynamic and diverse wine appellation located in the Veneto region of northeastern Italy. It is known for producing both red and white wines that reflect the volcanic soils and rich winemaking traditions of the area. Among its highlights are the indigenous white grape Vespaiolo and international varieties like Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Pinot Nero.
Table of Contents
What is Breganze DOC?
Breganze DOC is a prestigious wine appellation in Veneto’s Vicenza province, established in 1969. Known for volcanic soils and the indigenous Vespaiolo grape, it produces elegant dry whites (€12–18), structured reds (€15–30), and the renowned Torcolato dessert wine (€25–45) from 13 municipalities along the Asiago Plateau foothills.
Breganze may be one of the Veneto’s lesser-known DOCs, but it’s a treasure trove for wine lovers seeking elegance, volcanic terroir, and unique native grapes like Vespaiolo. Anchored by the charming town of Breganze, this appellation showcases everything from delicate dry whites to the iconic, sweet Torcolato.
History and Origins
The Breganze area has been producing wine for centuries, with Torcolato—the region’s revered dessert wine—being mentioned in documents as early as the 18th century. However, the DOC status wasn’t officially granted until 1969, recognizing the area’s unique terroir and traditional winemaking practices.
Torcolato, which means “twisted” in reference to the drying grape bunches once tied with cords, embodies the rustic creativity of this region. Breganze’s wines were historically reserved for noble tables and Venetian merchants who appreciated their balance and longevity.
Where It’s Made: Geography & Terroir
Located in the Vicenza province, Breganze sits on the foothills of the Asiago Plateau and is part of a volcanic chain that contributes to the area’s distinctive soils. These basalt-rich soils offer excellent drainage, mineral complexity, and allow for long ripening periods—especially important for Vespaiolo and Bordeaux varietals.
Climate:
- Mild winters and warm summers
- Well-ventilated hills
Soils:
- Predominantly volcanic with basalt and tuff
- High mineral content
- Excellent for both red and white varieties
The Grape (or Blend)
Vespaiolo: The flagship grape of Breganze, used in both dry and passito (Torcolato) styles. It derives its name from the Italian word vespa (wasp), due to the grape’s high sugar content that attracts wasps during late harvest.
Other authorized grapes:
- White: Chardonnay, Pinot Bianco, Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc
- Red: Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Marzemino
- Indigenous: Groppello di Breganze, Tocai Friulano (now Friulano)
The diversity of grapes allows for stylistic breadth—from zippy white wines to age-worthy reds.
Winemaking & DOC Regulations
The Breganze DOC has clear regulations to maintain quality and typicity:
Dry Whites
- Min. 11% ABV
- Vespaiolo and blends must show varietal purity
Reds
- Merlot and Cabernet-based blends
- Aging requirements for riserva styles (min. 2 years)
Torcolato
- Min. 14% ABV
- 100% Vespaiolo
- Grapes dried on racks or by hanging (traditional method)
- Aged for a minimum of 1 year
Key Facts at a Glance
| Category | Details |
| Region | Veneto, Vicenza province |
| DOC Established | 1969 |
| Signature Grape | Vespaiolo |
| Notable Wines | Vespaiolo (dry), Torcolato, Merlot blends |
| Price Range | €12–45 |
| Soil Type | Volcanic (basalt) |
| Tourism Highlight | Torcolato Day (January) |
Tasting Notes
Vespaiolo (Dry):
- Aromas of citrus blossom, green apple, and pear
- Crisp acidity, saline minerality
- Medium body, refreshing finish
Torcolato (Sweet):
- Notes of apricot, honey, saffron, dried figs
- Rich texture with balancing acidity
- Long, elegant finish with almond and caramel hints
- Red Blends (Merlot/Cabernet):
- Excellent cellar potential
Serving & Pairing
Dry Vespaiolo:
- Serve at 8–10°C
- Pair with asparagus risotto, fried seafood, or young Asiago cheese
Torcolato:
- Serve at 10–12°C
- Pair with foie gras, blue cheese, biscotti, or Sauternes-style pairings
Reds:
- Serve at 16–18°C
- Pair with grilled meats, truffle pasta, and alpine stews
Ripe blackberry, plum, spice
Structured tannins with moderate oak
Where to Buy & Pricing
Online Retailers
- Tannico, Eataly, Wine.com
Estimated Pricing
- Vespaiolo (Dry): €12–18
- Torcolato: €25–45
- Red Blends: €15–30
Wine Club Recommendations
- Roscioli Wine Club: Torcolato verticals
- The Italian Cellar: Indigenous varietals focus
Best Breganze Producers to Try
- Maculan – Pioneer of high-end Torcolato and Vespaiolo
- Firmino Miotti – Champion of native varieties
- Antico Brolo – Traditional techniques, organic focus
Vintage Guide
| Year | Style | Notes |
| 2020 | Dry Whites | Fresh, vibrant acidity |
| 2018 | Torcolato | Exceptional balance of sugar and acid |
| 2016 | Reds | Powerful, cellar-worthy |
Breganze Wine Tourism
Visiting Tips
- Best months: May–October
- Closest cities: Vicenza (30 min), Venice (1.5 hrs)
- Transportation: Rent a car for winery access
Key Events
- Torcolato Day (3rd Sunday of January): Streets of Breganze turn into open cellars
Where to Eat
- Trattoria al Cappello: Pair Vespaiolo with local trout
- Ristorante La Rosina: Seasonal pairing menus with Torcolato flights
How Breganze Differs from Other Veneto Wines
| Appellation | Grape/Style | Terroir | Key Difference |
| Soave | Garganega | Volcanic | Higher production, more commercial |
| Prosecco | Glera (sparkling) | Alluvial hills | Sparkling, mass-market |
| Amarone | Corvina (dried) | Clay-limestone | Heavier, riper, more concentrated |
Breganze is a still wine DOC focusing on freshness, balance, and native varietals—less known, but often more surprising.
FAQ on Breganze DOC
Is Breganze DOC the same as Torcolato?
Not exactly. Torcolato is a style of passito dessert wine made under the Breganze DOC using 100% Vespaiolo.
What does Vespaiolo mean?
Named after the wasps (vespe) it attracts during ripening due to its sugar-rich skin.
Is Breganze wine expensive?
Most wines fall within the €12–30 range, with Torcolato commanding premium pricing up to €45.
Can I age these wines?
Yes! Torcolato and red blends can cellar for 8–12 years. Vespaiolo is best within 3–5 years.
Where can I visit wineries?
Many producers offer tastings in and around Breganze. Maculan, Miotti, and Cantina Beato Bartolomeo di Breganze welcome visitors.
Fun Facts & Cultural Notes
- Breganze is dotted with Palladian villas that date back to the Renaissance.
- The area’s torcolato drying technique involves twisting grape bunches with cords in attic rafters.
- A unique Volcanic Wine Road runs through Vicenza’s wine hills.
- Torcolato Day is celebrated with parades, grape blessing, and communal tastings.
- The owner of Diesel Clothing owns a winery in Breganze called Diesel Farm.
Quick Read Summary
- Region: Veneto, Vicenza province
- Wines: Vespaiolo (dry/passito), red blends
- Top Producers: Maculan, Miotti, Cavazza
- Best Time to Visit: May–October; Torcolato Day in January
- Price Range: €12–45
- Food Pairings: Seafood, cheese, grilled meats
🍷 Have you tried Breganze wines? Tag us @drinkitalian_com on Instagram with your favorite bottle or pairing!
📌 Sign up for our newsletter to get our upcoming “Italian Dessert Wine Guide” and wine tourism tips for Veneto.
Have fun to learn more about Italian Wines and Spirits! Explore also the non-alcoholic beverages 😉
Send us an email if you want to suggest edits, or if you are looking for more info, at
cheers@drinkitalian.com
If you are in the mood for a good book, you can try:
– The Modern History of Italian Wine by Walter Filipputti
– Hidden Gems of Italy: An Insider’s Secret Formula To Find Top-Class Italian Wines At Value Prices And Taste La Dolce Vita by Tony Margiotta
Additionally, you can discover the other wines from Veneto.
