This week we continue our theme of world white wines other than the ubiquitous Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay. The Del Cero family produce the best wines in Lugana on the southern shores of Lake Garda, 20km east of Verona in northern Italy. The 2015 “I Frati” is made from 100% Turbiana grown on glacial soils from vines of between 10-35 years of age and is vinified with meticulous precision. The warmer days give wines with more weight and intensity than those even from 60 kilometres to the east. The cool nights, thanks to the moderating influence of Lake Garda, ensure the grapes retain nice aromas and acidity. No oak. Light yellow in colour with a concentrated but fresh perfume of white flowers, peaches and ripe lemons. On the palate it has excellent depth and balance, with lovely richness and a crisp, lively finish. An extremely versatile and practical wine that is a match for the full array of antipasti that can be served at an Italian table (and beyond) from anchovies to zucchini.
Delivery Charges
*Local Free Delivery: SL3 and SL4 postcode (Windsor/Datchet)
*Local Free Delivery: All SL (Except SL7), HP9, GU25, TW18, TW19 & TW20 postcodes. (Min. 6 bottles or 1 Hamper or 1 of our selected Wine cases purchased)
- England and Wales £12.00
- England and Wales Free Delivery (Over £200 purchased)
- Northern Ireland £30 (All BT postcodes)
- Scotland £15.00 (EH, FK, G, KA, KY, ML, DG and TD postcodes)
- Scottish Highlands and Islands £ 30.00 (All AB; DD; HS; IV; KW; KA27-28; PA; PH; TR21-25; ZE postcodes)
More Information
Trebbiano/TurbianaThis variety is said to be the same as Verdicchio, and to the Trebbiano used in Lugana, which today is known as Turbiana. Trebbiano di Soave has nothing whatsoever to do with Trebbiano Toscano, which is Ugni Blanc. Trebbiano di Soave, a low yielding variety that was used to augment Garganega‘s perfume, virtually disappeared from the hills of Soave in the 1970s and 1980s. Pieropan was one of the few producers who valued this vine, as others planted Trebbiano Toscano or Chardonnay. It has enjoyed a revival in the last 15 years, as its perfume, texture and acidity are highly prized for the production of top quality Soave. About 20% to 30% of Trebbiano di Soave in a blend with Garganega works well. It peforms best on the basalt soils of Soave Classico.
