Trebbiano di Lugana – Fresh white wines from northern Italy
Trebbiano di Lugana grape variety: origin and identity
The Trebbiano di Lugana grape variety, also known as Turbiana, is one of Italy's most traditional white wine varieties. Its roots lie in the region around Lake Garda, an important wine-growing area in the north of the country.
There, on the border between Lombardy and Veneto, the grape variety has established itself over centuries. Trebbiano di Lugana occupies a prominent position in Italy and is one of the country's most widely grown grape varieties. The area under cultivation for this grape variety is considerable, underlining its importance for Italian viticulture.
Italy is known for its diverse grape varieties and wine regions such as Veneto, Lombardy and Umbria, with Trebbiano di Lugana making an important contribution to the regional identity.
DNA analysis has shown that Trebbiano di Lugana is closely related to other Italian grape varieties such as Procanico from Umbria, Orvieto, Bianco di Custoza and Soave. These scientific findings help to better understand the origin and development of grape varieties and to classify their importance in an international context.
Germany is an important export market for Italian white wines, especially Trebbiano di Lugana, and contributes significantly to the international reputation of this grape variety.
Lugana Trebbiano – expression of a special terroir
The growing area for Lugana Trebbiano is characterised by calcareous clay soils, which, in combination with the mild lake climate of Lake Garda, offer ideal conditions for viticulture and contribute significantly to the production of high-quality DOC wines. These soils give Trebbiano di Lugana wines their typical minerality and structure.
Di Lugana or Turbiana – one variety, many names
The Trebbiano di Lugana grape variety is closely related to other well-known varieties, but is clearly distinguished from the widespread Trebbiano Toscano. Names such as Verdicchio Bianco and Ugni Blanc regularly crop up in discussions about origin and genetics – varieties that have similar characteristics but are not identical. The name di Lugana or Turbiana has become established in practice and emphasises the wine's origin in the Lugana region.
Trebbiano di – focus on aroma and style
Trebbiano di Lugana usually appears in the glass with a pale yellow colour and greenish reflections. The aroma and bouquet of the wine present a complex bouquet characterised by fruit and flowers. The aroma spectrum includes hints of citrus fruits, green apples, floral notes and delicate flowers, complemented by a delicate hint of almonds on the finish. The structure of the wines is medium-bodied, well-balanced, with clear acidity and a mineral finish, giving the taste a harmonious balance between fruit, acidity and minerality. Fresh and lively in their youth, they show additional depth with a little bottle ageing. This wine impresses with its special enjoyment and high quality.
Lugana DOC – expression of regional typicity
The Lugana DOC controlled designation of origin guarantees the origin and quality of these wines. Lugana DOC white wines are often bottled in distinctive bottles, which particularly emphasises their recognisability and exportability. Within this DOC area, various varieties are produced – from fresh basic wines to structured selections and Riserva types with ageing potential. DOC wines from the Lugana area have long since earned a place among Italy's best white wines.
The Trebbiano di Lugana grape variety and its distribution
The Trebbiano di Lugana grape variety is mainly found in the border region between Veneto and Lombardy. In addition to its core area around Lake Garda, it is also grown in other regions of Italy, such as the Marche. There it occasionally appears under the name Verdicchio Bianco, which further emphasises the close connection between the varieties.
Trebbiano di Lugana is used to produce characteristic white wines in various regions of Italy, which are characterised by their freshness, lively acidity and diverse aroma profiles.
Ugni Blanc – the French sister
The French variant of this grape variety is known as Ugni Blanc. In France, it plays an important role in the production of brandy, especially Cognac and Armagnac. Unlike Trebbiano di Lugana, the focus here is less on ageing as a fresh white wine and more on distillates.
Diverse styles and variants
In addition to the classic Lugana wines, there are other variations of the variety, including lightly sparkling versions, late-harvest selections and rare, wood-aged versions. Many Lugana wines are also aged in steel tanks to optimally preserve their freshness and aromatics. All these wines demonstrate the versatility of Trebbiano di Lugana as a variety.
Wine and food – ideal combinations
The freshness and structure of Trebbiano di Lugana wines make them ideal accompaniments to food. They are particularly appreciated as versatile food pairings, as their lively acidity and freshness make them an excellent match for fish dishes. They harmonise particularly well with:
- Grilled fish such as sea bream or zander
- Cold veal with tuna sauce
- Pasta with lemon butter and asparagus
- Seafood risotto
- Fresh goat's cheese with olive oil
Lugana Trebbiano also reveals its potential with vegetarian dishes based on fennel, green asparagus or artichokes.
Trebbiano – modern vinification
Modern cellar technology now allows for a wide range of styles – from uncomplicated everyday wines to complex, structured varieties with longer ageing on the lees. The drinking maturity also varies: while simple Lugana wines are usually drunk young, selected bottlings show remarkable development even after a few years in the bottle.
A grape variety with international recognition
This grape variety is recognised not only in Italy but also in international ratings. Tasters such as James Suckling regularly praise the value for money of the better Lugana wines and their balance between freshness, structure and complexity.
Frequently asked questions (FAQ) about Trebbiano di Lugana wine
What kind of grape is Lugana?
Lugana is made from the Trebbiano di Lugana grape variety, also known as Turbiana. It is typical of the area on the southern shore of Lake Garda.
What does Trebbiano taste like?
Trebbiano wine tastes fresh and fruity, with aromas of citrus fruits, apple and a slight almond note on the finish.
What grapes are used in Lugana?
Mainly Trebbiano di Lugana (Turbiana). According to DOC regulations, a small proportion of other white varieties may be included, but this is rarely used.
Is Trebbiano wine dry or sweet?
Most Trebbiano wines are dry, but there are also varieties with a slight residual sweetness or late-harvest specialities.
Is Trebbiano a good wine?
Yes, Trebbiano di Lugana in particular is considered to be of high quality. Good winemakers use it to produce fresh, balanced white wines with depth and ageing potential.