Ronchi di Brescia

The wines with Protected Geographical Indication "Ronchi di Brescia" are white (also produced in the sparkling and raisin versions) and red (also new).

Grapes

The main varieties for the production of "Ronchi di Brescia" wines differ according to the type. For the whites they are Chardonnay, Invernenga, Pinot Bianco, Trebbiano di Soave, Trebbiano Toscano. For the red wines: Marzemino, Barbera, Schiava, Cabernet Sauvignon, Cabernet Franc, Merlot, Incrocio Terzi n. 1. For the new wine: Marzemino, Merlot, Sangiovese, Barbera. Finally, for the passito, the Invernenga grape variety is used. In the case of white, raisin white and red, the minimum share of the main grape variety is 85%, while for the novello the minimum share is 70%. For the remaining percentage can be used other berry varieties of the same color, suitable for cultivation in Lombardy.

Physicochemical and Organoleptic properties

The white wine (minimum total alcoholic strength by volume of 10.50% vol.) is of a more or less intense straw yellow colour, combined with a fruity aroma and a fresh, savoury, harmonious taste. The red type (10.50% vol.) has a ruby red colour with garnet highlights, an intense winy aroma and a dry, savoury, full-bodied, rightly tannic taste. The novello (11% vol.) is distinguished by its brilliant ruby red colour with possible violet hues, its fruity, pleasant aroma and its harmonious, fresh flavour. Finally, the passito is straw yellow in colour with golden reflections, exudes an intense fruity perfume and has a sweet, soft, harmonious and velvety taste. The specification also specifies all the other organoleptic characteristics that depend on the prevailing grape variety.

Grape production area

The production area includes the rocky hills of Brescia.

Specificity and historical notes

Between the eleventh and twelfth centuries, the Benedictine abbots of the monastery of San Pietro in Monte di Serle, stimulated by the need for wine for liturgies and charitable assistance, developed the cultivation of the vine in their possessions of Nave, Bovezzo and Caino.