Grape Variety
Garganega
"gar-GAH-neh-gah"
Wine Styles
Sparkling
Light White
Full White
Aromatic
Rosé
Light Red
Medium Red
Full Red
DessertAbout Garganega
Origin
Veneto, Italy
History
Garganega is a white Italian wine grape variety predominantly grown in the Veneto region of northeast Italy, especially in the provinces of Verona and Vicenza. It is Italy's sixth most widely planted white grape and forms the basis of Venetian white wines such as Soave and Gambellara. DNA studies have confirmed that the Grecanico Dorato grape of Sicily is identical to Garganega, indicating its cultivation in various Italian regions.
Appearance
Medium-sized, yellow-green berries forming tight clusters.
Growing Traits
Garganega is a vigorous, late-ripening grape variety that thrives in volcanic soils, particularly in the Soave and Gambellara regions. Its thick skin provides some resistance to diseases, and it benefits from the region's mild climate, which contributes to the development of its characteristic flavors.
Wine Characteristics
Body
3/5
Sweetness
1/5
Tannin
0/5
Acidity
4/5
Alcohol
3/5
Medium-bodied with a harmonious balance, offering a smooth and rounded mouthfeel. Typically dry, though late-harvest versions can exhibit a sweeter profile. Negligible tannins, as it is a white grape variety, resulting in a clean finish. Medium to high acidity, contributing to its freshness and aging potential. Moderate alcohol content, typically ranging between 11.5% and 13.5%, ensuring balance and drinkability.
Taste Profile
Peach
Honeydew
Tangerine
Marjoram
Saline
Garganega wines are characterized by flavors of peach, honeydew, and tangerine, complemented by subtle notes of marjoram and a saline minerality. The medium to high acidity provides a crisp and refreshing finish, making it a delightful choice for those seeking a balanced and flavorful white wine.
Food Pairing
Garganega's medium body and balanced acidity make it a versatile companion for various dishes. It pairs well with seafood, light pasta dishes, and white meats. The wine's subtle almond and citrus notes complement dishes featuring herbs like tarragon and marjoram. Its refreshing nature also makes it suitable for pairing with salads and mild cheeses.
Growing Regions
Italy
Veneto (notably Soave and Gambellara)Sicily (as Grecanico Dorato)
Notable Wines & Producers
Soave Classico DOC
Pieropan
Inama
Gambellara Classico DOC
La Biancara di Angiolino Maule
Zonin
Recioto di Soave DOCG
Gini
Suavia
Garganega FAQ
Common questions about this grape variety
What is the origin of Garganega?
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Veneto, Italy
Is Garganega wine full bodied?
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Garganega has a body level of 3 out of 5. Which means that Garganega is Moderate bodied.
Is Garganega wine dry or sweet?
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Garganega has a dryness level of 1 out of 5. Which means that Garganega is Dry.
Where is Garganega wine from?
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Veneto, Italy
Where is Garganega grown?
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Garganega is grown in Italy (Veneto (notably Soave and Gambellara), Sicily (as Grecanico Dorato)).
What is Garganega like?
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Garganega wines are characterized by flavors of peach, honeydew, and tangerine, complemented by subtle notes of marjoram and a saline minerality. The medium to high acidity provides a crisp and refreshing finish, making it a delightful choice for those seeking a balanced and flavorful white wine.
What does Garganega pair with?
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Garganega's medium body and balanced acidity make it a versatile companion for various dishes. It pairs well with seafood, light pasta dishes, and white meats. The wine's subtle almond and citrus notes complement dishes featuring herbs like tarragon and marjoram. Its refreshing nature also makes it suitable for pairing with salads and mild cheeses.
What does Garganega taste like?
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Garganega wines are characterized by flavors of peach, honeydew, and tangerine, complemented by subtle notes of marjoram and a saline minerality. The medium to high acidity provides a crisp and refreshing finish, making it a delightful choice for those seeking a balanced and flavorful white wine.
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