Discovering Lugana: the white wine that tells the story of Lake Garda

“I didn’t know a glass could tell a story. Then I tasted Lugana.”

During my trip to Lake Garda, among breathtaking views and villages suspended in time, I discovered something I didn't expect: a wine that seems to have been born to tell the story of this territory. It's called Lugana , and it's much more than just a white wine. It's an experience.

📍 Where does Lugana originate?

Lugana is born in a strip of land between the southern shore of Lake Garda, between the provinces of Brescia and Verona. The area is flat, with clay soils and a unique microclimate thanks to the proximity of the lake. Sirmione, Desenzano, Peschiera del Garda… it is precisely here that this marvel comes to life.

🎒 On FeelGarda you will find experiences recommended by those who live the area every day: tours of the cellars, gastronomic stops and selected typical products. Discover the authentic taste of Garda with one click.

🍇 One grape, a thousand shades

The protagonist is Turbiàna , a native grape variety that for years was confused with Verdicchio, but has its own precise identity. It is elegant, savoury, with a minerality that remains in your mouth like the memory of a walk along the lakeside.

🥂 How does it look in the glass?

• Color: Straw yellow with greenish reflections when young, more golden with aging.

• Aroma: White flowers, citrus, fresh almond. Over time, notes of aromatic herbs and flint emerge.

• Taste: Fresh, balanced, with that savoury note that seems like an embrace from the lake.

🍴 What to eat with it?

A lake fish dish – perhaps whitefish or grilled sardines – and Lugana is at its best. But it also pairs well with vegetarian dishes, sushi, fresh cheeses and white meats.

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🍷 Types of Lugana

• Lugana DOC : young, fresh, perfect as an aperitif.

• Lugana Superiore : aged for at least one year, more complex and structured.

• Lugana Riserva : aged for at least 24 months, elegant and deep.

• Lugana Vendemmia Tardiva : from slightly overripe grapes, soft and enveloping.

• Lugana Spumante : fine bubbles, ideal for starting (or ending) a party.

🗺️ Which wineries to visit?

I visited the Cantina Ca' dei Frati , an institution in the area. But thanks to FeelGarda I also discovered small family-run businesses, where wine is still made with passion and hands dirty with earth.

🍇 Do you want to live a similar experience? On FeelGarda you can find food and wine tours that can be booked directly, or you can write to us for personalized advice. Every trip starts with an idea, and we are here to ignite it.

👉 The next wine?

In the next article I will introduce you to Bardolino , the light and convivial red perfect for a dinner overlooking the lake. Follow me on the tour of the Garda wines: every glass is a story to tell.

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