Ottella, Lugana DOC (Veneto, Italy) Turbiana 2022

 The Lugana DOC lies at the southern end of Lake Garda and is shared by Lombardy and the Veneto regions.  Ottella is in the town of Peschiera del Garda, just on the Veneto side.  The deep waters of the glacially-carved lake have a moderating effect on the local climate and allow for optimal ripening of the grapes.  The glacial activity also created the deep morainic soils of the DOC.  The Turbiana grape is native to the area and thrives especially well in Ottella’s La Creete vineyard.  “Creete” in the local Veronese dialect means “creta” or clay – a reference to the white clay soil of the site.  The vines here are 30 to 40 years old and yield grapes with remarkable depth of flavor.  This is a pure and exuberant white wine, with lovely scents of apple, pineapple, peach, lemon, flowers, and subtle herbs.  The flavors are refreshing and complex, with layers of citrus, apple and tropical nuances enhanced by elements of cream and lemon zest.  This is serious white wine, indeed.  Drink it with your favorite seafood or roasted fowl recipe.