The wine regions of Asolo and Montello, once cherished secrets among Italian wine enthusiasts, are now stepping into the global spotlight. These areas, home to significant wine appellations including two DOCGs and one DOC, have seen remarkable growth over the last decade. Their unique combination of specific geographical identity, the distinctive qualities of their wines, and a profound connection to Asolo's rich cultural heritage has propelled them to prominence. While Montello maintains its legacy of crafting Bordeaux-style red blends, Asolo Prosecco Superiore DOCG has firmly established itself as a leading sparkling wine, showcasing the dynamic evolution and increasing recognition of these exceptional Italian terroirs.

Asolo Prosecco DOCG stands out within the broader Prosecco landscape due to its distinctive characteristics. Firstly, its precise geographic location defines a small vineyard area renowned for producing high-quality wines. Secondly, the wines themselves possess an undeniable uniqueness that sets them apart. Lastly, and perhaps most subtly, the deep ties between the wine and Asolo's rich cultural tapestry contribute significantly to its identity. This area, affectionately known as 'the town of a hundred horizons,' boasts a terrain highly conducive to viticulture. Positioned west of the Piave river, the region spans approximately 35 kilometers and encompasses two geologically distinct growing environments. To the east, the Montello hills provide gentle, sun-drenched slopes, ideal for cultivating grapes. To the west, the Colli Asolani, a range of hills characterized by numerous peaks and steep valleys, lend their name to the wine and define its unique character.

The region's commitment to low-intensity viticulture and remarkable biodiversity is evident. Vines occupy a mere 7% of the 43,000 hectares under the PDOs of the Asolo Montello Consorzio, with the majority dedicated to natural woodland and diverse agricultural practices. The climate here is temperate and sub-alpine, benefiting from Monte Grappa acting as a natural shield against cold northern winds, complemented by warmer air currents from the Veneto plain. These conditions foster not only thriving vineyards but also flourishing olive groves.

The wines from Asolo Prosecco DOCG are known for their structure and intensity, perfectly suited for the drier styles. Asolo pioneered the ultra-dry Extra Brut style within the Prosecco denomination, a superb food-pairing wine that has become a signature expression of the region. The calcareous marl soils of the Colli Asolani impart a distinctive saline and mineral quality, enhancing the wines' signature aromas of spring blossom, apple, pear, and citrus zest. In contrast, wines from Montello's red ferrous soils often exhibit a firmer, more vertical, and mineral character. While Prosecco styles are currently a key focus in Montello, the region also boasts a long-standing history of red wine production. Today, the Montello DOCG produces elegant, age-worthy Bordeaux blends, and the Montello Asolo DOC offers both red and white still wines from international and indigenous grape varieties, including the fascinating and recently rediscovered local Recantina grape.

Asolo's enchanting allure, with its winding cobblestone streets and breathtaking panoramic views, has captivated poets and artists for centuries. The poet Carducci famously dubbed it 'the town of a hundred horizons,' a testament to its serene beauty. This hillside town's tranquil charm has drawn creative minds throughout history, from the English poet Robert Browning, who composed significant works here, to the pioneering explorer Freya Stark and the renowned turn-of-the-century actress Eleonora Duse, all of whom made Asolo their home. A stroll through its streets on a sunny spring afternoon reveals the timeless appeal that has inspired so many.

The dramatic rise in Asolo Prosecco DOCG production, soaring from a modest three million bottles in 2014 to an impressive 32.4 million in 2024, stands as a testament to its success, positioning it as Italy's fourth-largest sparkling wine producer. This remarkable achievement is underpinned by the strong foundation of the Asolo Montello producers' consortium, which includes 475 members, encompassing growers, bottlers, and small- to medium-sized independent estates. As the consortium celebrates its 40th anniversary this year, it looks forward to a promising future, continuing to share the narrative of these elegant, distinctive wines and the magnificent landscape that nurtures them.