The Capriano del Colle DOC lies south of Brescia, in Lombardy, around the Montenetto, the isolated hill in the plain that gives the appellation its name. Recognised in 1980, it has about 32 hectares and an output of 1,370 hectolitres. In 2013 the consortium of Capriano del Colle DOC and Montenetto di Brescia IGT changed its name to Consorzio di Tutela del Montenetto.
The whites
The Bianco requires at least 60% Trebbiano, in the di Soave, di Lugana or Toscano variants; the varietal Trebbiano requires at least 85%. Both may also be frizzante. The Bianco Superiore ages for at least 12 months in cask and may not be released before 1 October of the year after the harvest. They are fresh, savoury whites with aromas of white flowers, apple and almond; the Superiore gains body and softer notes.
The reds
The Rosso is a blend with at least 40% Marzemino, here called Berzamino, at least 20% Merlot and at least 10% Sangiovese, with other red grapes up to 10%. It may also be Novello or Riserva, which ages for at least two years and is released from 1 November of the second year after the harvest. There is also a pure Marzemino, at 100%.
Marzemino gives colour, aromas of violet and wild berries and gentle tannin; Merlot adds softness, Sangiovese acidity and structure. The appellation's minimum alcohol is 11%.
At the table
The whites go with starters, lake fish and risottos; the Marzemino and the Rosso with cured meats, casoncelli, Brescia-style spiedo and grilled meat; the Riserva with roasts and aged cheeses. East of the city lies the Botticino DOC, to the north Cellatica; towards Lake Garda, Trebbiano di Lugana gives its name to the Lugana DOC.
