The Garda DOC Consortium, a key player in the promotion of Lake Garda’s wines, is set to host an exclusive event at Villa Principe Leopoldo in Lugano. This prestigious event, titled The growth of the Garda DOC terroir, is tailored for professionals in the wine industry and will provide a deep dive into the Denomination’s rich history, terroir, and wine-making traditions. The focus will be on highlighting the value of Garda DOC wines, especially for the Swiss market, which has long been a vital reference point for Garda wine tourism.
The event, organized in collaboration with the Association Suisse des Sommeliers Professionnels (ASSP), will be marked by a special Masterclass led by Carlo Alberto Panont, director of the Garda DOC Consortium. Designed for sommeliers, journalists, and Food & Beverage managers, the session will offer an in-depth understanding of the Garda DOC territory, its unique wine styles, and the ongoing efforts to promote the Denomination in Switzerland. This outreach aligns with the Consortium’s long-term strategy of increasing awareness and visibility of Garda DOC wines, both for consumption and tourism.
Paolo Fiorini, President of the Garda DOC Consortium, emphasized the importance of Switzerland as a key market: “Quality of wines and related experiential tourism are the factors that draw many Swiss consumers to our territory, making Garda DOC a preferred choice. We have been running continuous promotional efforts to provide adequate knowledge about our wines to those interested in delving deeper into the Denomination.” He further highlighted that Switzerland not only serves as a top destination for Garda wine tourism but is also a pivotal market for exporting Garda DOC wines, second only to Germany.
The upcoming event in Lugano follows a series of initiatives held in Switzerland over the years, aimed at expanding the Garda DOC’s influence in this essential market. The current session, curated by Rocco Lettieri, is an opportunity for industry professionals to engage directly with the Consortium and explore the characteristics of Garda DOC wines through the lens of Swiss preferences, particularly the shift from full-bodied reds to lighter whites and sparkling varieties.
Anna Valli, President of the Canton Ticino Association of Sommeliers, expressed her support for the initiative, stating, “The Canton Ticino Association of Sommeliers is pleased to promote and support this event, which delves into the study of Garda DOC’s terroir and wine landscape. This is an invaluable opportunity for professionals to familiarize themselves with the exceptional qualities of Garda DOC wines, which have already earned a solid reputation in the Swiss market. It’s a must-attend event for sommeliers, journalists, and importers.”
During the event, participants will have the chance to view a documentary showcasing the heterogeneity of the Garda DOC soils, a defining feature that contributes to the wide range of wine styles produced in the region. The documentary will serve as an educational tool, offering insights into the area’s viticultural diversity and the factors that make Garda DOC wines so distinctive.
For many producers involved in this initiative, Switzerland represents a crucial market. The increasing demand for lighter, varietal, and sparkling wines in the country reflects broader shifts in wine consumption patterns. “Switzerland has shown a growing appreciation for Garda wines, especially in the wake of changing consumer preferences,” remarked one producer. “We see a strong future for our wines here, which is why we continue to invest in events like these.”
The event not only strengthens the connection between Garda DOC and Swiss wine professionals but also provides a platform to discuss the future prospects of this growing market. As Garda DOC wines gain further recognition in Switzerland, initiatives like this one will play a crucial role in fostering continued growth and collaboration between the two regions.
