October 27, 2025

Ep 236 – Lugana Wine & the Turbiana Grape: Exploring Italy’s Hidden White Wine Gem with Fabio Zenato, President of Consorzio Tutela Lugana DOC

52 minutes

In this bright and refreshing episode, Janina travels to the shores of Lake Garda to uncover one of Italy’s most exciting and underrated white wine regions - Lugana DOC.

Her guest is Fabio Zenato, president of the Consorzio Tutela Lugana DOC, who brings three generations of family knowledge and a deep passion for the local Turbiana grape.

Together, they explore the true identity of Turbiana, the unique glacial soils of the region, and why Lugana wines can age far beyond expectations. Expect insights into clonal selection, microclimate, and terroir - all wrapped in stories of tradition, elegance, and discovery.

Shownotes

[01:53] Third-generation vintner Fabio Zenato reflects on childhood memories that shaped his connection to the vineyards of Lugana.

[02:28] Family heritage and early experiences that inspired a lifelong dedication to the land and its vines.

[04:46] Clarifying the genetic confusion surrounding the Turbiana grape and its historical misidentification.

[04:57] Understanding the DNA difference between Turbiana, Verdicchio, and Trebbiano di Soave.

[09:18] Mutation or clone — exploring how proximity to Soave influenced Turbiana’s evolution.

[10:41] Labeling inconsistencies and the importance of protecting the Turbiana name.

[12:04] Tasting Tommasi Le Fornaci 2024 (£19.99 Cambridge Wine Merchants) and what to expect from a fresh, mineral-driven Lugana wine.

[14:40] Locating Lugana: the southern shores of Lake Garda, between Lombardy and Veneto.

[19:27] The influence of Lake Garda’s breezes and surrounding topography on vineyard climate.

[20:33] The role of elevation - from 60 to 100 meters - and how slight altitude differences affect freshness and balance.

[22:02] Exploring Monte Lupo 2015 from Cobue and understanding why Turbiana has remarkable aging potential.

[24:47] How Lugana wines maintain acidity and evolve with nutty, floral, and mineral complexity over time.

[27:40] Introducing La Rifra Riserva 2022 - structure, richness, and longevity in the glass. £24.99 D Vino Wines

[28:53] Defining what makes a Lugana Riserva: minimum aging, depth, and stylistic differences.

[32:53] The story behind Benedictus 2023 from Le Morette — the philosophy and inspiration behind its name. £22 The Wine Rack

[34:41] Winemaking approach: lees aging, oak influence, and the balance between richness and minerality.

[38:05] Food pairing ideas — from seafood to risotto, and how Lugana’s texture makes it versatile.

[40:05] Tasting Feliciana 'Serce' Riserva 2022 — €27.95 Woodberrys.ie

[40:36] Travel tips: flying into Verona for the easiest route to Lugana and Lake Garda.

[42:59] Must-try local dishes and regional specialties to pair with Turbiana wines.

[45:28] A new generation of winemakers bringing innovation through sparkling and sweet styles.

[46:50] Corte Sermana Duerive 2023 — bright, delicate, and grown by the lake, where the vines feel the breeze off Garda’s shores.

[49:07] The perfect Lugana moment — sunshine, lake views, and a chilled glass of Turbiana.

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Until next time – cheers to you! 🥂

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– Finalist, 67 Pall Mall Award for Best Global Wine Communicator in Audio (2025)

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By Janina Doyle

4.4

1414 ratings