The Garganega
Grape
The primary white grape variety used in the production of Soave in the Veneto region of Italy. Garganega produces wines that are typically light to medium-bodied, with high acidity and flavors of citrus, pear, and white flowers, often with a mineral undertone.
Garganega
Grape History
Garganega is a white wine grape variety that is primarily grown in the Veneto region of Italy. This grape has a long and rich history, dating back to ancient times. It is believed to have originated in northern Italy, specifically in the provinces of Verona and Vicenza. Garganega is known for producing high-quality white wines with a distinct character, often used in both still and sparkling wines.
One of the most well-known wines made from Garganega is Soave, which is a dry white wine that has gained popularity both in Italy and internationally. Soave is typically a light and crisp wine with flavors of citrus, green apple, and almond. Garganega is also used in the production of the sweet wine Recioto di Soave, which is made from dried grapes and has a rich and luscious texture.
Garganega is a versatile grape variety that is well-suited to a range of growing conditions. It thrives in the volcanic soils of the Soave region, where it produces wines with minerality and complexity. Garganega is also grown in other parts of Italy, such as the Lombardy region, as well as in countries like Argentina and Australia.
In recent years, there has been a growing interest in Garganega as winemakers explore its potential to produce high-quality wines with unique flavors and aromas. This grape variety is known for its ability to express the terroir of the region where it is grown, making it an exciting option for both traditional and innovative winemaking practices.
The projected future of Garganega looks promising, as more consumers worldwide are embracing the diversity of Italian wine grapes. With its long history, distinctive character, and adaptability to different growing conditions, Garganega is poised to continue to captivate wine enthusiasts and remain a key player in the world of white wine varieties.
Introduction
Hello, my name is Franklin Laurel - Welcome!
I started drinking wine in 1992 when I was in my early twenties and recently married. Like many other young Southern Californians, it started out with White Zinfandel. As we were a couple of young DINKs just beginning life together, and on a budget, our go-to-wine was Sutter Home White Zinfandel, which tasted a lot like wine coolers and probably cost at the time $2.49. If we really were going to splurge, we would step it up and buy Beringer White Zinfandel for $2.99. Those were the days....
After a little time, we decided to get fancy. We stepped up our game and bought some wonderful 2-Buck Chuck from Trader Joe's. The Charles Shaw (Trader Joe's Exclusive Label) wine, also known as 2-Buck-Chuck extended our pallet into Reds for only $1.99 a bottle. Over the years we continued to grow in our understanding of wine (finally ran into some good wine) and we slowly kept buying better and better bottles.
Our first wine club purchase was from Kenwood's Vineyards, in Kenwood, California located in Sonoma Valley, right next to the famous Napa Valley. I began to learn about tobacco leather, and earthiness, and lots of other strange terminology when tasting their signature Zinfandels (of the red variety). So that is how it all began.
Fast forward a couple decades, and we have been members of five different wine clubs, and now have a passion for California's red wines. My favorite by far is Cabernet Sauvignon, while my wife fancies a good Syrah, Malbec, or Merlot - but she also loves the smell of a wine barrel room, which is all about the notes of Cabernet Sauvignon.
As I come across great wine resources and useful information that I find in planning my own wine trips, I will share here for anyone that might stumble across my humble website.
Cheers! - Franklin Laurel