Lugana
Water Water Everywhere, and so much wine to drink
This year I was included on a press trip to the Lugana area, and I realise how fortunate I was, because this area, south of Lake Garda is a place that remains a little hidden from the Wine Warriors who trample their way to Tuscany.
On this trip a few of us were in the right place at the right time, and a wine tasting on a speedboat ploughing across the placid waters of Garda made us all feel as though we'd become James Bond for an hour or two.
This winery is slightly schizophrenic because the back has the traditional barrel and implements, and exudes a farmhouse feeling. If you go inside the owner, of Swiss heritage, has a room that is lined with a variety of collections, including terracotta masks.
Once inside the cellars...
you are treated to a display of changing colours that makes this location seem almost operatic. I wanted to sing, but was paid in wine if I didn't!
Another winery and another cellar with a magnificent art installation.
I always find the sight of a solitary bottle a little sad, and if you'd like to adopt one of these little beauties to take home and look after, I'm sure the winery would be very grateful.
Some wineries go for elegance, some for functionality, but this went for a homely feel where you could sample wines as you lounged about on the sofas.
I probably take so many pictures of barrels because I would love to own two or three, dozen!
We stopped here for a tasting, followed by lunch, and while we were waiting I stepped out on to the balcony and took this picture.
I couldn't have pictures of Italy without at least one celebrating the food, and this burrata dish was not only tasty, it looked fantastic.
The wine region of Lugana is within spitting distance of Lake Garda, but they advise against the spitting, unless it's wine into a bucket!
This is an arty shot I took as we motored about in a speedboat. In the distance was Isola del Garda with its dreamy villa.
I cannot remember why we weren't allowed to get off the boat to walk about. Perhaps it was the stalker vibe we gave off!