Valcamonica

The Protected Geographical Indication "Valcamonica" is reserved for white wines (including Passito), red wines, Marzemino and Merlot.

Grapes

For the production of wines with Protected Geographical Indication "Valcamonica" is expected to use some main varieties: Riesling Renano, Incrocio Manzoni and Muller Thurgau for the white (minimum 60%); Marzemino and Merlot for the red (minimum 60%). In each type, the remaining 40% can be obtained from other varieties, similarly colored berry, suitable for cultivation in Lombardy. The specification of the Marzemino or Merlot grape varieties, for the red, is reserved for wines obtained at least 85% from the corresponding variety, while the remaining 15% can be obtained from other varieties suitable for cultivation in Lombardy.

Physicochemical and Organoleptic properties

The white (minimum total alcoholic strength by volume of 11.50% vol.) is characterized by a straw yellow colour with greenish reflections, an intense, aromatic, fruity aroma and a subtle, dry, characteristic taste, stimulated by acidity. The white passito (14% vol.) is distinguished by golden reflections and a sweet, soft, fruity flavour. The red (11.50% vol.) is ruby red with light garnet hues, has a characteristic, pleasant scent with hints of ripe fruit and intense flavor, good structure, persistent. The Merlot version (12% vol.) has an intense ruby red colouring, with a vinous, intense perfume and a soft, harmonious, full-bodied, persistent flavour. The Marzemino type (12% vol.), on the other hand, is ruby red in color with garnet hues, a pleasant aroma, hints of ripe fruit and dry, full taste.

Grape production area

The production area includes several municipalities in the Camonica Valley, in the "provincia di Brescia".

Specificity and historical notes

The wine tradition of Valcamonica began in the Romanesque period, but especially in the late Middle Ages, in the period from 1001 to 1321, the foundations of the current highly specialized cultivation of the area were developed.