An Introduction to Lugana with a Glass of Turbiana

Lugana DOC is a small wine region situated along the southern shore of Lake Garda, in Northern Italy. And while the region lies between the provinces of Brescia and Verona, and sits astride two wine regions, Lombardy and Veneto, it is firmly committed to just one grape variety: Turbiana. If you are a curious wine drinker looking for a taste of something different, or just something delicious, Lugana has a wine for you. We received this wine as a tasting sample.

Lake Garda is Italy’s largest lake. Large inland bodies of water have the effect of mitigating weather extremes — keeping temperatures a little cooler in summer and a bit warmer in winter. Lake Garda does just that for Lugana and provides cooling breezes that blow over its Turbiana vineyards. The region’s soils are a jumble of clay with varying amounts of gravel and sand thanks to glacial activity.

Turbiana is a local variety that, according to Consorzio Tutela Lugana DOC, established to promote and protect the DOC, is closely related to Trebbiano di Soave. It has been confused with Verdicchio from the Castelli di Jesi in the Marche Region, but is a distinct variety. 

Turbiana is known for its thick skins, high acidity and complex flavor profile making it very ageable. Five styles of wine are made in Lugana: DOC, Superiore, Riserva, Spumante and Vendemmia Tardiva. All must be a minimum of 90% Turbiana.

Let’s Taste

2025 Cà dei Frati I Frati, Lugana DOC — pale yellow with generous aromas of citrus blossoms and orange peel. Flavors include stone fruit, tropical notes and citrus pith. Prominent, citrusy acidity supports the flavors and provides a very long, juicy finish. 13% ABV. SRP $22

This is a wow wine! So delicious with great acidity. It is comprised of 100% Turbiana fermented in stainless steel with brief lees aging. I could drink this wine all summer and all winter! The winery suggests pairing this wine with starters or steamed or grilled fish, which sounds delish. I recently made pasta with fresh ricotta, lemon and basil that was a delicious pairing.

According to Ethica Wines, the US Importer, Cà dei Frati translates to “house of friars”. Centuries ago (dating back to 1782 according to the Cà dei Frati winery website) Carmelite monks grew vines on the property. The Dal Cero family’s connection to the property was established in 1939 by Felice Dal Cero and continues today with the third and fourth generations of the family. Vineyard plantings have grown to 200 hectares (494 acres) from the original 4.

Thanks to Colangelo & Partners for organizing our tasting.

Cheers!