'I Frati' Lugana Single Bottle
Country: Italy Region: Lugana, Lombardia
Varietal: 100% Turbiana Vintage: 2022
Colour: White Style: Dry
Producer: Cá dei Frati
VINTAGE
The 2020 vintage was varied but balanced. Spring was mild, which allowed for healthy budding and fruit set. Rainfall in June created excellent water reserves in the soils for the warm July that followed. Hailstorms affected some of the vineyards in August, but much of the crop was saved. Ca' dei Frati is excited by the quality of the 2020 fruit.
PRODUCER
The Dal Cero family has transformed their Ca' dei Frati property, situated on the southern shores of Lake Garda, into a model Italian estate over the past two decades. Back in 1987, they had 12 hectares of vineyard but now, following the purchase of a large chunk of prime vineyard in 2008, they have over 160 hectares. This increase in quantity has been matched by an increase in quality and today they remain the best producer in Lugana.
VINEYARDS
The secret to the success of the Cà dei Frati wines is outstanding vineyards. Most producers in the zone over crop and train the vines high. At Cà dei Frati, the vines are trained low, on single or double Guyot, newer vineyards have a higher density of planting, and yields are well below the average for the zone. Vines are 10 to 35
years old. In Lugana, the Turbiana grape is grown on the glacial soils just to the south of Lake Garda. The warmer days give wines with more weight and intensity than those from 60 kilometres to the east. The cool nights, thanks to the moderating influence of
the lake, ensure the grapes retain aroma and acidity.
VINIFICATION
Grapes were hand picked and selected in the vineyards. Once arrived at the winery, they are pressed with a pneumatic press. The must was fermented in temperature-controlled stainless steel tanks to preserve its natural fresh fruit character. The wine then matured
on its lees in 500HL stainless steel tanks for six months, before spending a further two months in bottle before release.
TASTING NOTES
Pale yellow in colour with a concentrated but fresh perfume of white flowers, peaches, spice and candied fruits. `I Frati` Lugana 2020 has an excellent depth and balance, and a crisp, saline finish.
