Turbiana is the white grape variety that symbolises the southern Lake Garda region, historically also known as Trebbiano di Lugana. Its name stems from local wine-growing tradition, whilst more recent genetic studies have highlighted a close relationship with Verdicchio and Trebbiano di Soave, whilst confirming its distinct varietal identity. The vine exhibits moderate vigour and ripens rather late. The leaf is generally medium to large, pentagonal, three-lobed or five-lobed, with a slightly blistered margin and an open petiole sinus. The bunch, of medium size, is pyramidal or cylindrical-pyramidal, often winged and ranging from moderately compact to semi-dense; the berry is medium-sized, spherical or slightly elliptical, with a green-yellow, pruinose and firm skin.
The Turbiana variety thrives on the southern shores of Lake Garda, particularly in the areas of Sirmione, Desenzano del Garda, Lonato, Pozzolengo and Peschiera del Garda, straddling Lombardy and Veneto. The clayey soils of morainic origin and the climate tempered by the lake favour balanced ripening and a distinct territorial identity. The resulting wine is generally straw-yellow in colour, sometimes with greenish hues, and offers aromas of citrus, white flowers, apple, almond and delicate mineral nuances. On the palate, it is fresh, savoury, full-bodied and well-structured, with a lingering finish. Thanks to its acidity and minerality, it can develop interesting evolving notes of ripe fruit, aromatic herbs and almonds, achieving significant ageing potential in its finest expressions.
