Nestled in the green hills of Veneto, northwest of Treviso, the Montello Asolo DOC (formerly Montello e Colli Asolani) is a wine appellation still little known to the general public, yet it holds true treasures. From characterful red wines to elegant whites and festive sparkling wines, this region truly expresses the richness of its soils and climate. Let’s discover together its history, unique features, and the indulgent pairings that enhance the wines of the appellation.
Have a great trip to Italy !
Summary
History of Montello Asolo DOC
Viticulture in Veneto dates back to Antiquity. The hills located north of Treviso were in fact cultivated as early as Roman times, a period during which viticulture spread widely in the region thanks to trade. The Piave river was already playing an essential role by connecting the inland vineyards to the coastal cities of the Adriatic Sea.
In the Middle Ages, local viticulture was sustained thanks to the religious orders and noble families. The monks, guardians of the vines and agricultural know-how, perfected cultivation and winemaking methods, while the local lordships encouraged the development of vineyards on the local hills. Asolo, a fortified medieval city, then became a cultural and economic center where wine held a prominent place in banquets and commercial exchanges.
From the 17th to the 19th century, viticulture experienced contrasting phases. While the region’s hills maintained their agricultural vocation, the arrival of phylloxera at the end of the 19th century led to a severe crisis.As everywhere in Europe, it is necessary to replant and restructure the vineyard, which then paves the way for the introduction of Bordeaux grape varieties (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Carménère), the latter thriving particularly well on the region’s clay-iron soils.
The 20th century marks the institutional recognition of the region from a winegrowing perspective. In 1977, the Montello e Colli Asolani DOC (Denominazione di Origine Controllata) designation was created, officially protecting the quality and origin of the wines. In 2020, it was renamed Montello Asolo DOC, thus more clearly affirming its connection with the historic town of Asolo.
In 2011, the Montello Rosso DOCG (Denominazione di Origine Controllata e Garantita, the highest tier of Italian appellations) was also created, crowning the most ambitious red wines from the best plots of the vineyard.
Today, the winemakers of Montello Asolo continue a two-thousand-year-old heritage while innovating in sustainable viticulture, giving rise to diverse wines (red, white, sparkling) that reflect both the history and vitality of their terroir. The appellation remains very exclusive, with only 65 hectares of vines.
Soils and climate of Montello Asolo DOC
The Montello Asolo terroir is characterized by clay-limestone and clay-iron soils, sometimes enriched with deposits from ancient quarries. This diversity gives the cultivated grapes a certain minerality as well as a lovely depth that can be found during tasting.
The climate, of a continental type, benefits from a subtle Mediterranean influence and is marked by the influence of the Piave River as well as by the natural protection of the surrounding hills.
Summer days are generously sunny, while the nights remain cool, allowing the grapes to develop intense aromas while maintaining a beautiful acidity.Winters, moderately cold, clearly mark the vine’s cycle and reinforce its natural balance.
From this alliance between varied soils and a continental climate are born wines that are both full-bodied and vibrant, imbued with character.
The wines of Montello Asolo DOC
The Montello Asolo appellation reveals a surprising winegrowing richness, where the elegance of Bordeaux grape varieties harmonizes with the authenticity of local traditions.
Red wines
Red wines represent more than 60% of the appellation’s production. Mainly made from Bordeaux grape varieties (Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Carménère) and Recantina, these are generally structured cuvées offering aromas of red and black fruits, spices, and undergrowth. Some wines are designed to be enjoyed young, while others, aged in barrels, have great aging potential as well as a definite aromatic concentration. The terroir and the producer's choices are decisive here regarding the desired style.
For its part, the Montello Rosso DOCG is exclusively reserved for the production of great red wines. The grape varieties here are the same as for Montello Asolo DOC, but Cabernet Sauvignon must be dominant in the blends. In addition, yields are stricter and a minimum aging of 18 months is mandatory (in wood and/or in tank as well as in bottle). For a Riserva wine from the appellation, the requirements increase to a minimum of 24 months of aging, including at least 12 months in wood and also a mandatory period of bottle aging. The result? Highly concentrated red wines, with aging potential and a profile often compared to the great Bordeaux wines.
The reds of Montello Asolo reveal the finesse of Bordeaux grape varieties
White wines
The white wines of the Montello Asolo DOC highlight grape varieties such as Pinot Bianco, Pinot Grigio, Manzoni Bianco, Bianchetta Trevigiana, or Chardonnay.
Fresh, floral and elegant, they captivate with their balance and savor, and are perfect for light and refined pairings.
Sparkling wines
The production of sparkling wines in the Montello Asolo appellation remains marginal (about 10%). However, it demonstrates the diversity of the local terroir. These wines are mainly made from the Glera grape variety (as for Prosecco), although other local varieties may also be used. They are generally light and fresh sparkling wines, offering delicate aromas of white fruits (apple, pear, peach) and white flowers.
It is interesting to note that just a few kilometers away, the Asolo Prosecco DOCG appellation (which in some places even overlaps with the terroirs of Montello Asolo DOC) distinguishes itself by its exclusive specialization in the production of high-quality sparkling wines. This appellation is indeed dedicated to the creation of premium Prosecco.
Finally, the local terroirs are perfectly capable of producing wines under the Prosecco DOC appellation, which covers a large part of the regional vineyards.
What to eat with a wine from Montello Asolo DOC?
As you can see, the wines of Montello Asolo DOC offer a wonderful diversity. It is therefore only natural that these wines allow for rich and varied gastronomic pairings. Here are some suggestions to enhance your bottles from the appellation.
With red wines
The supple and fruity reds from Montello Asolo will reveal all their indulgentelegance when served with roast poultry, fine charcuterie or mushroom risottos. Their lightness and fruity notes will indeed enhance these dishes without overpowering them, creating a beautiful harmony on the palate.
For more structured reds, their power and pronounced yet silky tannins will pair perfectly with grilled red meats, game, or slow-cooked dishes.
With white wines
Fruity and floral white wines from Montello Asolo will naturally pair with lighter dishes. Seafood, grilled fish, summer salads or Italian antipasti, bruschetta, vegetable crostini, buffalo mozzarella, will pair divinely well with their freshness.
With sparkling wines
The bubbles of the appellation will be perfect for aperitif, but will also combine very well with Italian antipasti or fruity desserts. Their fine bubbles and freshness will bring a convivial dimension to meals.
Italian antipasti and fruity red wine from Montello Asolo: a delicious pairing
The best wines from Montello Asolo DOC
The appellation boasts many excellent winemakers and historic estates, such as Loredan Gasparini or Case Paolini, which contribute to the reputation and diversity of the appellation.
Nevertheless, La Cave Éclairée would like to present its favorite: the estate Serafini & Vidotto. Founded in 1986 by Francesco Serafini and Antonello Vidotto, the two friends' vineyard now covers 20 hectares, in the heart of the Montello Asolo hills. The passion of the two men for their land is reflected in each of their cuvées, and the entire range enjoys excellent quality.
Among their flagship wines, Il Rosso dell’Abazia perfectly illustrates their pursuit of excellence: a blend of Bordeaux grape varieties combining power and elegance, with silky tannins and complex aromas of red fruits and spices. We can also mention their sublime Pinot nero Roccolo or their cuvée Phigaia after the red, the true flagship of the estate. Everything is good at Serafini & Vidotto!
Vineyard of the Serafini & Vidotto estate
As you will have understood, the Montello Asolo DOC is an appellation that absolutely must be discovered by lovers of Italian wines in search of authenticity and diversity. Between its characterful reds, elegant whites, and sparkling indulgentes, this vineyard offers a complete range of wines capable of accompanying both a festive meal and a simpler moment of sharing. Still little known compared to giants like Chianti, it nevertheless deserves a place of choice in the cellar of enthusiasts, as its qualitative potential is truly impressive.
Now, it's time for practice ! Head over to your favorite online wine merchant to discover the best Italian, French wines... and much more!
