2025 Perla del Garda Perla

PRE-SALE - EXPECTED AROUND 17 APRIL 2026

Perla del Garda Winery

Among the most highly regarded white wines, Lugana comes from the predominantly flat area around Lake Garda, the formation of which originated from an immense glacier that descended from the Adige Valley. This glacier subsequently retreated several times, only to return in later periods and shape the current Lake Garda and the adjacent hills. Perla del Garda is a modern winery located near the southern part of Lake Garda, in the Lugana region. The estate operates with a clear focus on purity and precision, with the expression of the Turbiana grape at its core. The vineyards are scattered across moraine hills and are managed with attention to detail. In the cellar, controlled vinification without excessive intervention is chosen so that the natural balance of grape and terroir is preserved. More information about this winery can be found under the Winery tab.

Region, climate and location

The Lugana DOC is located south of Lake Garda, an area strongly influenced by the lake's large surface area. This results in a temperate climate with relatively mild winters and warm, but rarely extreme, summers. The vineyards of Perla del Garda are situated at an altitude between 150 and 250 meters above sea level, on rolling hills around Lonato del Garda.

The soils consist of calcareous clay of moraine origin. This combination ensures good water retention while simultaneously providing sufficient drainage, which is essential in warmer years. The lime component contributes to the characteristic freshness and tension in the wine. The growing season is characterized by sufficient hours of sunshine, while the proximity of the lake has a moderating effect and supports the aromatic development of the grapes.

Vineyards and grape varieties

The wine is made from 100% Turbiana, also known as Trebbiano di Lugana. This grape is known for its ability to combine both freshness and structure. The vineyards are situated on calcareous clay soils and are planted at a density of approximately 5,000 vines per hectare. The average age of the vines is about 20 years, which contributes to a good balance between yield and concentration.

The combination of old vines, controlled yields, and the specific terroir results in grapes with sufficient ripeness, but also distinct minerality. This forms the basis for Lugana's distinctive style, in which freshness and structure go hand in hand.

Harvest, vinification and aging

The harvest takes place manually between late August and early September, depending on the ripeness of the grapes. Only the best bunches are selected. After the harvest, the grapes are cooled to approximately 10°C to prevent oxidation and preserve aromatic freshness.

Pressing is performed gently with whole bunches, ensuring a pure must without harsh extraction. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks at controlled temperatures around 15°C and lasts approximately 8 to 10 days. This approach ensures the preservation of primary aromas and a clear expression of the grape.

After fermentation, the wine ages entirely in stainless steel. No wood is used, placing the emphasis entirely on freshness, precision, and the pure expression of the terroir. This choice underscores the style of the house, in which balance and clarity are central.

Color, smell and taste

In the glass, the wine displays a clear, light straw-yellow color with subtle green reflections. The nose is refined and direct, with notes of citrus, green apple, and light floral accents. Beneath this lies a subtle minerality that gives the wine extra tension.

On the palate, the fresh structure is immediately noticeable. The acidity is lively yet well-integrated, resulting in a crisp and energetic start. The texture is slender but not thin, with a light roundness that makes the wine accessible. Flavors of citrus, white stone fruit, and a slightly salty undertone provide complexity without becoming heavy.

The finish is clean and persistent, with a clear mineral line that gives the wine length. The combination of freshness, structure, and precision makes this a wine that is both immediately appealing and remains gastronomically versatile. This wine clearly demonstrates what Lugana stands for: freshness, precision, and drinking pleasure. No oak, no excess, no high alcohol, but a pure expression of Turbiana and the Lake Garda terroir. A true terroir wine, and with its beautiful acidity, also a wine that can age for several years without difficulty.

Development and drinking window

This Lugana is primarily intended to be drunk young, when the freshness and primary aromas are most pronounced. At the same time, the wine possesses sufficient structure and balance to develop positively in the bottle over several years.

In the first 2 to 4 years, the emphasis is on liveliness and fruit. After that, subtler notes may emerge, making the wine slightly rounder and more complex. Storage under good conditions is essential to preserve freshness and balance.

Wine & Food Pairing and Discount

If available, you will find the official factsheet and additional information about this fine wine in the 'Attachments' tab. We will automatically send these to you upon ordering this wine. The wine is stored in our climate-controlled Wine Warehouse, and if you come to collect the wine, you will often receive a nice discount. You will see your discount immediately when you select 'Pick up' on the checkout page. We are located in Dordrecht, situated almost next to the A16 with ample parking. Click here for our address.

You can read full wine reviews from Parker, Suckling, Vinous, and Wine Spectator, among others. Need advice on finding the ideal wine for your dish? Click here for our exclusive Sommelier. Free for Grandcruwijnen customers. In the Food tab, you will find advice on what to look for for the right food and wine pairing, and a number of dish suggestions from our Sommelier.