Montenetto di Brescia

"Montenetto di Brescia" PGIs are white wines, also produced in the Sparkling version, and red wines, also produced in the Novello version.

Grapes

The main grape varieties used for the production of "Montenetto di Brescia" PGI wines differ according to the type. For the Bianco they are Chardonnay, Pinot Bianco and Trebbiano. For Rosso Marzemino, Barbera, Cabernet, Merlot and Sangiovese. Novello Rosso, on the other hand, must be produced with grapes 70% of which come from Marzemino, Merlot or Sangiovese vines, used alone or in combination. Finally, all types of grapes can be used to produce this wine, coming from vines suitable for cultivation in Lombardy, up to a maximum of 15% (which rises to 30% in the case of Novello).

Physicochemical and Organoleptic properties

The white "Montenetto di Brescia" PGI wines have a more or less intense straw yellow colour, accompanied by a characteristic fruity perfume and a fresh and savoury taste. The Rosso, on the other hand, has a ruby red colour, with garnet highlights, a vinous and intense aroma, combined with a dry, savoury, full-bodied and tannic flavour. The Novello is distinguished by its brilliant red colour, with purplish nuances, its fruity aroma and its harmonious and fresh taste. The minimum alcohol content is 10.50% vol. for Red and White and 11.00% vol. for Novello.

Grape production area

The production area includes the area of Monte Netto, south of Brescia, a promontory that rises from the plain, characterized by mainly clay soil.

Specificity and historical notes

In ancient times, in the area around Monte Netto, the vine was mainly cultivated as a medicinal plant, because wine was an important aid to the prevention and treatment of pellagra, a disease which was particularly common in the area.