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What is Capriano del Colle DOC?
Capriano del Colle DOC is one of Lombardy’s most discreet wine treasures—a boutique appellation tucked into the rolling hills of Monte Netto, just outside Brescia. With only about 25 hectares under vine, this DOC is among the smallest in Italy, yet it produces wines of remarkable character. Here, red wines led by Marzemino and whites based on Trebbiano capture the balance of Lombardy’s rustic charm and refined winemaking tradition.
History of Capriano del Colle DOC Wines
The story of Capriano del Colle is one of survival and revival. For centuries, the Monte Netto hill served as fertile ground for local farmers who grew native grapes alongside cereals and olives. By the late 20th century, the vineyards had shrunk to near extinction. In 1987, the area earned DOC status, protecting its traditions and creating renewed interest in Marzemino—a grape immortalized in Mozart’s Don Giovanni with the line, “Versa il vino! Eccellente Marzemino!” Today, a handful of passionate producers, notably Lazzari, are elevating this rare appellation into a connoisseur’s find.
Geography and Terroir of Monte Netto
Capriano del Colle DOC lies on Monte Netto, a solitary limestone hill that rises from the Lombard plains. This unique terroir—calcareous soils mixed with clay and gravel—produces wines with freshness, structure, and minerality. The Mediterranean breezes from Lake Garda to the east and the continental climate of the Po Valley create a balance of ripeness and acidity, key for long-lived reds and crisp whites.
Grape Varieties: Marzemino, Trebbiano, and Blends
- Marzemino: The flagship red, known for its violet perfume, soft tannins, and juicy black cherry flavors.
- Trebbiano di Soave / Trebbiano Toscano: White wines bring citrus, almond, and floral notes with bright acidity.
- Other reds: Barbera, Sangiovese, and Merlot often appear in blends, adding depth and complexity.
Wine Styles and Production Regulations
The DOC regulations preserve both tradition and quality:
- Rosso: Minimum 40% Marzemino, blended with Barbera, Sangiovese, or Merlot.
- Rosso Riserva: Aged at least 2 years (with 6 months in bottle), offering more intensity and cellar potential.
- Bianco: Trebbiano-based, fresh and mineral-driven.
- Novello: A lighter, early-drinking red in the style of Beaujolais Nouveau.
Alcohol levels range from 11–12.5%, depending on style.
Key Facts at a Glance
- Location: Monte Netto, Province of Brescia, Lombardy
- Year of DOC recognition: 1987
- Vineyard area: ~25 hectares
- Flagship grape: Marzemino
- Signature producer: Lazzari winery
Tasting Notes & Wine Characteristics
- Capriano del Colle Rosso: Juicy red cherry, plum, violet, gentle spice, smooth tannins.
- Capriano del Colle Rosso Riserva: Darker fruit, balsamic notes, hints of tobacco, elegant structure.
- Capriano del Colle Bianco: Lemon zest, white flowers, almond, fresh minerality.
Food Pairing Guide for Lombard Cuisine
Capriano del Colle DOC wines are made for the table:
- Rosso: Pairs beautifully with casolet cheese, pork sausages, and casoncelli alla bresciana (stuffed pasta).
- Riserva: Perfect with braised beef (manzo all’olio) and game meats.
- Bianco: A refreshing match for lake fish, risotto with asparagus, and goat cheese.
Where to Buy & Pricing
Capriano del Colle DOC wines are limited in availability, mostly found in northern Italy and select specialty importers abroad. Prices typically range from €10–18 for Rosso and Bianco, while Riserva wines can reach €20–30. Online retailers such as Wine-Searcher and specialty Italian wine shops occasionally stock these rare bottles.
Visiting Capriano del Colle Wineries
For wine travelers, the Monte Netto Natural Park offers scenic trails, cycling routes, and intimate visits to local wineries. Lazzari, one of the leading estates, provides tastings that showcase the potential of Marzemino in both contemporary and traditional expressions.
FAQ on Capriano del Colle DOC
- What does Marzemino wine taste like?
Aromas of violets, cherries, and spice; soft tannins with fresh acidity. - Is Capriano del Colle DOC wine expensive?
No—most bottles are very affordable given their rarity, ranging €10–30. - How do you pronounce Capriano del Colle?
“Cah-pree-AH-no del COH-leh.” - What’s the difference between Rosso and Riserva?
Riserva requires longer aging, resulting in more complexity, depth, and structure. - Are Capriano del Colle wines collectible?
Riservas, with their small production and aging ability, have growing appeal among collectors of rare Italian wines.
Fun Facts & Cultural Notes
- Capriano del Colle is one of Italy’s smallest appellations, producing fewer bottles annually than many single estates in Tuscany.
- Mozart’s praise of Marzemino immortalized the grape in cultural memory.
- The Monte Netto hill is sometimes called “the island in the plains” because it rises unexpectedly from the flat Brescia landscape.
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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 Lombardy.
