When many turn to pristine beaches along the coast for summer travel, others choose shimmering lakes around which to gather with friends and family. Having grown up walking the sandy beaches along the East Coast, lakefronts in the Midwest and California are now where my family and friends tend to gather. Now, I have another lake and its surrounding areas to add to my favorite destinations – Lake Garda in northern Italy.

Why? After a recent media trip to the region (aptly named “Garda Wine Stories”) with 30 international journalists, it was immediately apparent that the unique qualities of Lake Garda and the regions’ history and culture are elements woven in the notable wines of Garda DOC. This is wine travel at its best.

About Lake Garda 

It’s impossible to untangle the thread that is just as much Lake Garda as it is the hilly region straddling Lombardy and Veneto. Alpine mountains protect and stand tall over what is considered “the largest basin in Italy.” Between the provinces of Brescia, Mantova and Verona is the Garda DOC appellation where, within 10 historical production areas (Riviera del Garda Classico-Valtenesi, San Martino della Battaglia, Lugana, Colli Mantovani, Custoza, Bardolino, Valpolicella, Valdadige, Lessini-Durello and Soave), grape varieties retain elements of the unique climate and terroir, evident since the Iron Age.

Through the centuries, varying geological formations and climate phases (with alternating cold/humid and hot/arid patterns) have affected many of the grape varieties currently cultivated. Today, climate is more balanced and is moderated by the lake. Rainfall is consistent throughout the year, helping Garda DOC produce high-quality grapes.

Many term the region “a piece of the Mediterranean” at the foot of the Alps. Morainic hills carved by glacier activity, mineral deposits, a temperate climate with lake breezes, exposure to the sun and soils that are stony, rich in rock fragments and calcaire help produce wines that are soft, fresh and mineral-driven. Crossing Lake Garda are often intense breezes that temper the summer heat and winter cold.

The Wines of Garda DOC

Wine production in Garda DOC has expanded through the years in order to “represent the varietal wines in the ten historical production areas” and “enhance the value of all those wines without any geographical indication or recognition.” Impressive, refreshing, and food friendly white, sparkling and red wines are produced. In essence, the weaving of climate, soils and winemaking style create wines to sip again and again.

Still varietal wines include Pinot Bianco, Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Riesling B., Sauvignon, Cortese, Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Corvina, Pinot Nero and Marzemino. Still blends include white (Garganega, Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, and Trebbiano) and red (Merlot, Cabernet, Corvina, Marzemino, and Rebo). Charmat method sparkling wines are white (Garganega, Treggiano di Lugana and Pinot Grigio) whereby Classic Method sparkling wines are white (Chardonnay, Pinot Nero and Corvina) and rose (Marzemino, Corvina, Pinot Nero).

Explore the Connection Between Lake Garda and Its Wines

To any wine lover who is already planning the next trip, Lake Garda has it all and should be at the top of the list. The wines feature not only native grapes but those of which many are familiar – Pinot Noir, Chardonnay, Sauvignon, Cabernet. The quality to price ratio is shockingly affordable; for an incredibly reasonable price, a lovely sparkling wine of Pinot Grigio, a brilliant rose of Corvina or luscious Pinot Nero will enhance any menu item (or picnic on the boat with cheeses from local shops, for that matter).

While sipping that second glass of wine from Garda DOC at a charming lakeside cafe, consider the many activities that connect that wine in the glass to the lake. Visit the ten historical designations with their plethora of wineries and appreciate the vistas and friendliness of the hosts – of course!

Charter a boat for a fishing excursion or have a daytime or evening sunset cruise along Lake Garda. After, indulge in a seafood dinner paired with a few local wines. Stroll historic sites such as Scaliger Castle in Lazise, the fortified town at Peschiera del Garda, or historic churches in every town. Children will even love Gardaland, Italy’s most exciting theme park with plenty of rides, entertainment, and more, in Castelnuovo del Garda, along the lake and in a lovely town. A Garda DOC wine will definitely be in order after that!

Throughout the experiences of Garda Wine Stories, the message became as clear as Lake Garda. The wines of Garda DOC and the rich history, culture and landscape of the region are inseparable and unforgettable.

(Please note, more of my Garda Wine Stories are forthcoming.)

Cheers! ~ Cindy

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