FeelGarda , always on the lookout for niche businesses capable of expressing the authentic soul of Lake Garda , discovered a small winery that intrigued us to the point of wanting to investigate further.
This is how we arrived in Sirmione , where the Dal Cero family looks after the Tenuta Frontelago estate with passion and vision , a rare gem in the world of Lugana.
From roots to innovation
The story begins over fifty years ago, when Mario Dal Cero began growing Trebbiano di Lugana grapes to sell to other wineries. It was a quiet labor, involving hands dirty with earth and meticulous attention to every single grape.
Over time, the family business expanded thanks to their children Sara and Stefano, who, thanks to an innate passion, understood that those high-quality grapes could give life to a special wine.
Thus was born the idea of transforming part of the 13 hectares of vineyard into their own production, and from an area that could produce up to 150,000 bottles, they chose to create Lugana Frontelago DOC . Today, however, this choice has materialized in a limited and meticulously crafted production of just 6,600 bottles.
The magic of Lugana Frontelago
Three years ago, the winery began with just 3,300 bottles. Today, production has doubled to 6,600, and it aims to grow further. But it's not the number that's striking, but the character of the wine.
As soon as you open the bottle, an explosion of floral notes, citrus, ripe apple, and almond invades the senses. In the glass, the straw yellow shimmers with freshness. On the palate, Lugana Frontelago surprises with its lively acidity, bold minerality, and a savory, elegant, and persistent finish.
We had the privilege of tasting the three vintages, from 2022 to 2024, and we can say without hesitation: this is a wine that evolves magnificently. With age, the yellow turns golden, the fruit and almond notes enrich, and the elegance grows.
A wine for every meal, capable of accompanying countless gastronomic combinations. The differences between vintages are not imperfections, but signs of pure craftsmanship: because this Lugana is not born from chemicals, but from the earth, the hands, the heart, and the lake.
A viticulture that dialogues with nature
Trebbiano di Lugana grows on clay-limestone soils, lulled by the area's typical humidity. This complex soil produces intense aromas but also exposes the grape to the risk of downy mildew.
Yet, thanks to sustainable practices such as mowing in alternate rows , which allows beneficial wild herbs to counteract harmful ones, Mario and Stefano have kept treatments to a minimum. It is this balance with nature that guarantees the purity we find in the glass.
It is no coincidence that Frontelago has obtained the SQNPI (National Quality System for Integrated Production) certification : a recognition that is also reflected in the choice of materials, such as the Nomacorc corks made of sugar cane fiber and the cellar built entirely of wood.
The secret in the cellar
Stefano revealed the behind-the-scenes story: the harvest takes place between mid-September and October, the grapes are pressed whole and treated with special care to ensure the must develops the aromas that have captivated us. Then, fermentation takes place in stainless steel at a controlled temperature, and only when the balance is perfect, bottling takes place between April and May.
There's no need to rush: each bottle rests at least a month before being released, because time is also part of quality. Around 10,000 bottles are planned for 2025: few, precious, and sought-after.
Identity and design
Nothing is left to chance, not even the aesthetics. Frontelago chose the Renana bottle , perfect for aging, and a label that speaks to the region: a sail catching the Garda wind, with lettering that recalls the movement of the lake's waters.
The future and hospitality
Some vineyards date back to the 1960s, others to 1992 and 2013. Stefano is looking ahead, studying winemaking for individual plots and potential crus: new aces up his sleeve that promise to excite Lugana lovers.
But FronteLago isn't just about wine: it's also about authentic hospitality. During our visit, we felt welcomed as if we were part of the family, enjoying a timeless experience amidst nature, wine, and stories.
The FeelGarda invitation
With FeelGarda you can enjoy this unique experience: a visit to the winery, a tour of the vineyards, and a tasting, also suitable for celiacs and vegetarians, for €15 for adults , with a 3% discount on the purchase of Lugana Frontelago reserved for our guests.
A journey through Lugana you won't forget!
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