2025 Perla del Garda Perla

The 2025 Perla del Garda Perla is a Lugana DOP made from 100% Turbiana, sourced from vineyards around Lonato del Garda at an altitude of 150 to 250 meters. The wine is made from approximately 20-year-old vines planted on calcareous, moraine soils. The grapes are harvested by hand in September and gently pressed after a short cold treatment. Fermentation takes place in stainless steel at controlled temperatures, followed by aging in steel.

The Perla del Garda winery

Perla del Garda is located south of Lake Garda, around Lonato del Garda. The estate works with approximately 40 hectares of vineyards and focuses strongly on Turbiana, the most important grape of Lugana. Here, everything revolves around precision in the vineyard and pure vinification in the cellar. The result is wines that are clear and direct, with a distinct link to their origin. More information about the winery can be found on the 'Winery' tab.

Location Lugana area

Lugana is situated on the southern shores of Lake Garda, precisely on the border of Lombardy and Veneto. The vineyards of Perla del Garda are located in the hilly area around Lonato del Garda, at an altitude of 150 to 250 meters. This area benefits optimally from the influence of the lake and the shelter of the surrounding hills.

The location is crucial to the character of the wine. During the day, the sun ensures sufficient ripening, while Lake Garda provides cooling in the evening. These daily temperature differences help to preserve freshness and aromatic tension. This makes Lugana distinctive compared to other Northern Italian white wines.

Lake Garda climate influence

Lake Garda acts as a natural climate buffer. Winters are mild and summers warm, but rarely extremely hot. The presence of constant air currents from the water prevents stagnant heat and helps keep the grapes healthy.

These conditions ensure an even ripening of the Turbiana grape. The acidity is preserved, while the aromatic development comes to full expression. The result is a wine that feels both fresh and ripe, with a natural balance without intervention in the cellar.

Soil and terroir

The soils in this part of Lugana are of moraine origin, formed by glaciers that shaped the landscape thousands of years ago. They consist of calcareous clay, sand, and stones. This combination ensures good drainage while simultaneously retaining sufficient moisture.

For the wine, this means tension and structure. The limestone provides freshness and a slight salinity, while the clay ensures roundness and body. This contrast is typical of Lugana and makes the wines recognizable and versatile.

Turbiana grape and style

The Perla 2025 is made from 100% Turbiana. This grape is known for its ability to be both fresh and slightly spicy. The average age of the vines is around 20 years, and the planting is done according to the Guyot system.

Turbiana produces wines with a clear structure and recognizable minerality. Compared to other Trebbiano varieties, this grape has more depth and aging potential, while still retaining its fresh character.

Vinification and aging

The grapes are harvested by hand in September and carefully selected. After picking, a short cold treatment at around 10°C follows to preserve the aromas. Subsequently, the whole bunches are gently pressed.

Fermentation takes place in stainless steel tanks at approximately 15°C and lasts 8 to 10 days. The wine then matures further in steel. Due to the absence of wood influence, the profile remains tight, clean, and focused on freshness.

Flavor profile of fresh Lugana

In the glass, the wine displays a clear, light straw-yellow color. The aroma is open and fresh, with notes of citrus, green apple, and white peach. Additionally, there are subtle floral accents and a light minerality.

On the palate, the wine is crisp and lively, with fresh acidity and ripe white fruit. The structure is supple, yet with sufficient grip. The finish is clean, slightly saline, and persistent, which is typical of Lugana from this region.