Turbiana, an Italian grape variety, is predominantly found in the Veneto region of northeast Italy. This grape is often mistaken for Verdicchio or Trebbiano, however, it is distinctly unique with differing profiles and characteristics. It is worth noting that DNA profiling confirmed the Turbiana grape as a variety that is independent and separate from these others.
Primarily, Turbiana is used in the production of the illustrious Lugana DOC, a white wine renowned for its brilliant acidity and vibrant freshness. The grape is vinified to be a dry still wine, but certain wineries use it to produce late-harvest and sparkling wines.
Turbiana's skin tends to be rather thick, which helps it against disease and rot. It holds up to late-harvesting techniques and can provide fine-quality sweet wines. Yet, despite the thickness of its skin, it yields a juice that is fresh, crisp, and pleasantly moderate in its acidity levels.
On the palate, a Turbiana reveals notes of almond, citrus and a certain minerality that gives the wine a unique, sapid flavour, a characteristic often associated with wines made from this grape. Aged Lugana wines, known for their longevity, develop more complex, nutty and honeyed notes over time.
Aside from its delightful flavour profile, Turbiana is also heralded for its adaptability. It thrives in both the more pebbly soil near Lake Garda's shore, as well as the clay-heavy soil farther inland. Its versatility allows vintners a wide range of choices when deciding on viticultural strategies.
The Turbiana grape, while not as widely recognised as some of its Italian counterparts like the Sangiovese or Nebbiolo, still holds its own in the wine world. Its unique characteristics and versatility lend to the production of wines with surprising depth and complexity. In conclusion, the Turbiana grape is an integral part of Italian viticulture, contributing significantly to the rich and diverse tapestry of Italian wine.
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