Blog: Ca' Lojera · Lombardy

Ambra and Franco Tiraboschi started making wine almost by accident in 1992. Franco's background is in real estate, and when he and Ambra found this property for sale, it seemed too good a deal to pass up. But when the grape harvest came around that year, they couldn't find a buyer for the grapes, so they decided to make their own wine.

The house itself dates back to the 13th century and was the summer residence of the Bishop of Verona. They named the property Ca' Lojera (House of the Wolf in the local dialect) after a local legend that wolves protected the homes of smugglers who traded weapons and black market salt on the shores of Lake Garda.

The 30 to 40 year old vines are planted on 18 hectares of land rich in the characteristic white clay of Lugana, which was once part of the lake bed. Lake Garda is the largest lake in Italy, but it was once much larger, and the dried lake bed gives the wines a distinct minerality. The main grape variety in Lugana is the so-called Turbiana or Trebbiano di Lugana, which despite the name is actually Trebbiano. It is much more closely related to the Verdicchio grape from Marche (the relationship is evident in the subtle almond oil note that sometimes appears in the riper examples). All of Ca' Lojera's Lugana wines are made from 100% hand-picked Turbiana grapes, fermented and aged in stainless steel.

The 18 hectares of vineyards are all farmed organically, but certification is not sought because they want to avoid the red tape. The Lugana DOC is a fresh, medium-bodied white wine with scents of stone fruit, green almonds, lemon zest and white flowers. Lugana 'Riserva del Lupo' is made from a selection of later harvested grapes and often exhibits lush and exotic botrytis aromas, although it is dry on the palate. These wines are among the longest-lived whites in Italy, and despite their low production, Ambra and Franco have the privilege of occasionally offering library editions for sale - just ask!

Last but not least, they also produce a small amount of 'Tur Blanc', a Metodo Classico sparkling wine made from 100% Turbiana, aged on its lees for 48 months and processed without dosage. The passion and commitment of the Tiraboschis are reflected in their wines and in the care of the winery, so you would not guess that this is a second career for the couple. - Gerardo [TS01/23]"When a work project is also a life project, it strengthens the bond of a couple. At least that's what happened with the Tiraboschi family, who have dedicated their life's work to their winery on Lake Garda. He is in charge of production, while she, a spirited and passionate person, is the perfect hostess for visitors. In the clayey and compact vineyards of the plain they have planted the vines typical of the production of Lugana and in the vineyards on the hills, on the contrary, allochtone varieties." - Daniele Cernilli (Doctor Wine)