Not far from the soaring Alps of northern Italy lies a placid lake in a dream-like setting. At this northerly latitude we expect brisk days and a Continental climate. Instead, we find a pocket of Mediterranean-like climate, where grapevines grow amidst lemon groves, olive trees, tangerines and capers – even, palm trees.
If you’ve wandered into this dreamscape, welcome to Lago di Garda (Lake Garda). You’ve stepped into the premier wine production zone, Lugana DOC, producing one of Italy’s most distinctive white wines made from the native and noble grape, Turbiana.
Here, you are also just a small-bird flight from another idyllic location—Zamichele Estate Winery– vineyards and farmland where the Zamichele family have been growing Turbiana grapes for a 100 years. With a commitment to growing the highest quality grapes and a passion for providing a haven for local flora and fauna, the Zamichele family have been quietly hand-crafting small production, long-lived and distinctive Lugana wines, finally available in the US.
In this article I wrote for VeroVino, I share the unique character of the indigenous Turbiana grape and how it is shaped by the soils of Lake Garda. I also introduce you to Alessandro Zamichele, 3rd generation winegrower, providing natural habitat among his vines to a thriving population of local fauna and flora, and making some of the most gorgeous Lugana DOC wines.
Click the below link to access my article for VeroVino .
My friends at VeroVino – Always foraging natural wines and foods from undiscovered small producers around the world
Zamichele Vineyards – haven for flora and fauna, and bottle of Zamichele ‘Garde’ Lugana
Have you tried a Lugana DOC wine? Which are your favorites? Let us know in Comments below. We’d love to hear!
~ Mary Beth
Crushing on.....
silky pasta -- strong coffee and bright wines -- a world map -- and a good dance beat 
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