The Turbiana
Grape
The primary grape variety used in the production of Lugana wines, grown near Lake Garda in Italy. Turbiana is closely related to Trebbiano di Soave and Verdicchio and produces aromatic, full-bodied white wines with high acidity and flavors of citrus, almond, and herbs, along with a notable minerality.
Turbiana
Grape History
Turbiana is a white wine grape variety primarily grown in the Lugana wine region of northern Italy, specifically around Lake Garda. This grape variety is also known as Trebbiano di Lugana or Turbiana di Lugana. Turbiana is renowned for producing high-quality wines with excellent aging potential, which have gained international recognition in recent years.
The history of Turbiana dates back several centuries, with records indicating its cultivation in the region since at least the 14th century. The unique microclimate around Lake Garda, characterized by cool breezes and a temperate climate, provides the ideal conditions for the cultivation of Turbiana grapes. The sandy and clay-rich soils in the Lugana region further contribute to the distinct characteristics of wines made from Turbiana.
Turbiana grapes are known for their thick skins and high acidity, resulting in wines that are crisp, refreshing, and full of vibrant citrus, floral, and mineral notes. The most famous expression of Turbiana is Lugana DOC wine, which is produced in both still and sparkling styles. Lugana wines are typically dry, with a medium to full body and a balanced acidity that makes them versatile food pairing options.
In addition to Lugana DOC wines, Turbiana grapes are also used in the production of high-quality Veneto and Lombardy IGT wines. The versatility of Turbiana allows winemakers to create a wide range of wine styles, from light and fruity to richer and more complex expressions.
Turbiana has gained a strong following among wine enthusiasts and critics alike, with its wines consistently receiving high scores and accolades. The projected future of Turbiana looks bright, as more producers in the Lugana region and beyond recognize the potential of this grape variety to produce world-class wines.
As consumer interest in unique and lesser-known grape varieties continues to grow, Turbiana is poised to become a more prominent player in the global wine market. The combination of Turbiana's distinctive characteristics, the terroir of the Lugana region, and the expertise of local winemakers bodes well for the continued success and popularity of wines made from this exceptional grape variety.
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