Meta Description: Discover Capri DOC, the island’s rare red and white wines made from local grapes. Learn about its unique terroir, heartfelt history, and bottle-worthy stories—minus the tourist headlines.
What is Capri DOC?
Perched in the Gulf of Naples, the famed Capri DOC produces both red and white wines that are as rare as they are enchanting. Though overshadowed by its glamorous tourism, Capri’s wine heritage quietly whispers to discerning palates seeking flavor rooted in sun, stone, and tradition. It’s truly an island in a bottle.
History & Origins
Established in 1977, Capri DOC draws from centuries of vineyard cultivation—often overlooked amid tales of Roman emperors lounging in seaside villas. The island’s winemaking heritage, while deeply local, has reemerged with producers crafting wines that reflect Capri’s sun-drenched cliffs, sea winds, and limestone soul.
Where It’s Made: Geography & Terroir
The DOC encompasses the entire island of Capri, including the communes of Capri and Anacapri. Vineyards hug steep, terraced limestone slopes—shaped by millennia of sea breeze and Mediterranean sun.
- Climate: Warm Mediterranean, tempered by marine winds
- Soil: Predominantly limestone and marl
- Viticulture: Traditional pergola trellising helps combat the island’s humid summer air
The Grapes: What Wines Are Made Here?
Capri Rosso
- At least 80% Piedirosso
- Up to 20% other local red varieties
- Fresh red fruit, savory herbs, and a whisper of sea air
Capri Bianco
- At least 50% Falanghina and 30% Greco Bianco (min. 80% combined)
- Up to 20% Biancolella
- Bright citrus, white flowers, and brisk minerality
Winemaking & DOC Rules
Capri Rosso:
- Piedirosso minimum 80%
- Minimum alcohol: 11.5%
- Max yield: 12 tons/ha
Capri Bianco:
- Falanghina/Greco minimum 80% (Falanghina at least 50%)
- Minimum alcohol: 11%
- Regulated acidity and dry extract
Winemaking follows “pratiche leali,” respecting traditional methods and the island’s unique expression.
Key Facts at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
| Region | Island of Capri, Campania |
| DOC Established | 1977 |
| Primary Grapes | Rosso: Piedirosso; Bianco: Falanghina, Greco |
| Vineyard Terrain | Terraced limestone slopes |
| Climate | Mediterranean with sea breezes |
| Red Style | Light, savory, bright acidity |
| White Style | Floral, zesty, refreshing |
Tasting Notes
Capri Rosso
- Color: Light ruby
- Aroma: Red cherry, rosemary, sea mist
Palate: Medium body, bright acidity, delicate salinity
Capri Bianco
- Appearance: Pale straw
- Nose: White blossoms, citrus zest, orchard fruit
- Flavor: Dry, crisp, with lingering minerality
Serving & Pairing
Serving Temperatures
- Rosso: 16–18°C (slightly chilled)
- Bianco: 8–10°C (well-chilled)
Pairings
- Rosso: Pasta alle vongole, grilled vegetables, soft goat cheese
- Bianco: Insalata Caprese, lemon-marinated shellfish, mozzarella di bufala
Where to Buy & Pricing
Due to limited production, Capri DOC wines are often available only in boutique Italian wine shops or directly on the island. Expect pricing to begin around €25–€35—a small indulgence for a bottled island escape.
FAQ on Capri DOC
What makes Capri DOC unique? Its terraced vineyards, minuscule production, and expression of limestone terroir make it one of Italy’s most exclusive DOCs.
Is Capri Bianco or Rosso more traditional? Both styles share deep roots, with DOC recognition granted simultaneously in 1977.
How do you pronounce Piedirosso? “Pee-eh-DEE-roh-soh” — meaning “red foot,” a nod to the grape’s colorful stems.Is Capri DOC similar to Ischia DOC? No. Ischia is volcanic and larger; Capri is limestone-based, coastal, and boutique.
Is Capri DOC similar to Ischia DOC? No. Ischia is volcanic and larger; Capri is limestone-based, coastal, and boutique.
Fun Facts & Cultural Notes
- A Viticultural Cliffhanger: Terraced plots are often only accessible by foot or mule
- Limited Lots: Some producers bottle fewer than 1,000 cases annually
- Sensory Souvenir: Locals describe Bianco as tasting like Capri at sunset—sea salt, orange blossom, and memory
Explore More Hidden Wine Regions
- Verduno Pelaverga DOC – Piedmont’s Quiet Pepper
- Lacrima di Morro d’Alba – Marche’s Floral Mystery
- Grignolino of Asti – The Pale Red Rebel
→ Download our Hidden Wine Travel Guide: Southern Italy Edition
When it’s time to explore, Capri DOC isn’t just a wine—it’s a sensory postcard from the island itself.
CTA for Readers
Have you sipped Capri DOC yet? Share your tasting story with us using #DrinkItalianDiscoveries, or comment below with your favorite unexpected Italian wine.
Internal Linking Suggestions
- Hidden Wine Gems series overview page
- Southern Italian Wine Stories hub
- Capri Travel Experiences page for wine tourism
External Links
- Italian Wine Central: Capri DOC
- Wine-Searcher: Capri Region Insights
- Glossary entry on Capri DOC
Image & Metadata Notes
- Hero Image: Terraced vineyards overlooking the sea
- Alt Text: “Terraced vineyards of Capri DOC on the Island of Capri”
- Wine Visuals: Glass of Rosso with island backdrop
- Alt Text: “Capri Rosso DOC wine with coastal view”
- Map or Vineyard Image: Pergola vineyards on rocky cliffs
Alt Text: “Pergola trellised vineyards of Capri plantation”
