Lugana wine tour and Sirmione

The region

The Lugana Appellation, covering about 10 square kilometers, is the smallest in the province of Verona. It lies on the southern shore of Lake Garda and is an inter-regional Appellation. Specifically, one part belongs to the province of Brescia in Lombardy, where most of the vineyards are located. The other part belongs to the province of Verona in Veneto, where 60% of the wine is bottled.

Although the morainic hills surround the area, the soil is mainly flat. It consists primarily of clays, which play a vital role in Lugana wine. Firstly, this soil enhances the intensity of the primary aromas: citrus fruits, almonds, and aromatic herbs. Secondly, the clay gives Lugana wine an incredible aging potential, which is very rare for a white wine. In the hilly areas, the clay becomes more sandy, resulting in wines with a more marked acidity.

Historically, the term Lugana seems to derive from the Latin word “lucus,” meaning forest. In fact, this whole area was once covered by the ancient “Selva Lucana.” This was a very thick marshy forest until the 1400s, when it was reclaimed for cultivation. Today, you can discover this charming region with our Lugana wine tour and visit Sirmione with your private guide.

The grape

The main grape of Lugana wines is Turbiana (also called Trebbiano di Lugana). Even though regulations allow small percentages of other white varieties, most producers use exclusively Turbiana.

This indigenous variety belongs to the Trebbiano family, which is widespread worldwide (known as Ugni Blanc in France). However, the local biotype has a juicy, acidulous pulp and a very delicate taste. This unique profile is what makes the Lugana wine tour and Sirmione experience so special for white wine lovers.

Lugana wines

There are five different types of Lugana, each offering a different experience:

Lugana DOC: This is the “base” wine and the most famous version. It is a fresh, ready-to-drink wine with a pale lemon color. You will notice delicate floral scents with notes of almonds and minerals.

Lugana Superiore: This version matures for at least one year after the harvest. For this reason, it is more complex than the basic version. Its color has golden shades, and the aromas include hints of wild herbs and ripe citrus fruits. These scents are often combined with notes of hazelnut or spices if the wine is aged in wood. Furthermore, thanks to its robust structure, this wine can age beautifully in the bottle for a few years before uncorking.

Lugana Riserva: In this version, the aging period extends to 24 months, of which at least 6 months in bottle. As a result, it develops balsamic and flint notes and can remain in the cellar for up to 10 years.

Lugana Vendemmia Tardiva (Late Harvest): This type is inspired by the German Spätlese. In fact it is obtained by over-ripening the grapes on the vine until late October. Consequently, the wine is softer and fuller-bodied with a slight residual sugar.

Lugana Spumante (Sparkling): Produced using both the tank and the traditional method. The first keeps the fresh primary aromas, while the second version is more complex with scents of bread crust.

Sirmione village

Between one tasting and another, the village of Sirmione is well worth a stop. Built on the tip of a 3 km peninsula that “enters” the lake, it is nicknamed the “pearl of Lake Garda.” Sirmione offers a unique combination of Mediterranean nature, Roman ruins, and medieval remains. For example, you can take a walk through its ancient streets or visit the Scaliger Castle. Additionally, a boat ride to admire the Grotte di Catullo and the thermal springs will perfectly complete your Lugana wine tour and Sirmione visit.