The Italian lake of Garda, straddling Trentino and Lombardy, is home to picturesque towns and ferry boats but is perhaps best known for its wines. Several DOCs and one DOCG are produced here, from a wide range of grape varieties.

The whites from the Lugana zone on the southeastern edge of Lake Garda, made from Turbiana vines, are especially exciting. These wines, which are gaining popularity across Italy and beyond, deliver value, versatility, and a sense of discovery in every glass.

Bardolino is the region’s main red wine, typically a blend of Corvina and Rondinella. Lighter examples like the Bardolino Chiaretto DOC are ideal summer aperitifs, while Bardolino Classico DOC and superiore are great pairings with pizza or pasta dishes, legume soups, and fish, such as Vicenza-style baccala.

The sparkling wines of Lake Garda are worth checking out as well. Using metodo classico or Martinotti methods, these fizz are bright and refreshing. They pair well with an array of appetizers and seafood but are especially good with the traditional tortellini di Valeggio. wine lake garda