Trebbiano di Soave

What Is Trebbiano di Soave?

Trebbiano di Soave is a white grape of Veneto, grown in the hills east of Verona and around Lake Garda. It makes fresh, structured whites with citrus, green apple and almond, and is best known as the blending partner of Garganega in Soave.

Despite its name, Trebbiano di Soave is not related to Trebbiano Toscano or the other Trebbianos. DNA studies have shown that it is the same variety as Verdicchio of the Marche, and as Turbiana, the grape of Lugana. The grape probably moved between these regions centuries ago and took different local names. In Soave it was long considered the second grape of the blend, valued for adding acidity and structure to the rounder, more fragrant Garganega.

Where Trebbiano di Soave Grows

• Soave: the volcanic and limestone hills east of Verona, around Soave and Monteforte d'Alpone, next to Garganega.
• Lake Garda: the clay soils south of the lake, where the same grape is called Turbiana and makes Lugana.
• Other parts of Veneto: small plantings, mostly in blends.

Trebbiano di Soave and Italian Denominations

• Soave DOC: at least 70% Garganega; Trebbiano di Soave and Chardonnay can make up the rest.
• Soave Superiore DOCG: the hill version, with the same grapes and stricter rules.
• Recioto di Soave DOCG: sweet wine from dried grapes, mostly Garganega.
• Lugana DOC: varietal Turbiana, the same grape under another name.
• Veneto IGT and Delle Venezie IGT: used for varietal Trebbiano di Soave and blends.

Flavor Profile and Tasting Notes

• Fruit: lemon, green apple, pear and white peach.
• Other notes: almond, fennel, white flowers and a mineral, slightly salty finish.
• Structure: medium body, high acidity, clean and firm texture.

On its own Trebbiano di Soave is crisp and lean when young, and can age well, gaining honey and nutty notes. In Soave it adds freshness and length to Garganega.

Food Pairing

• Risotto: with asparagus, peas or seafood.
• Fish: lake fish, grilled sea bass and baked cod.
• Shellfish: clams, mussels and shrimp.
• Vegetables: vegetable soups and herb frittata.
• Cheese: young Monte Veronese and other fresh cheeses.

How to Choose and Where to Start

Start with a Soave Classico that includes Trebbiano di Soave in the blend, then try a varietal bottling. Producers worth knowing include Pieropan, Suavia, Coffele, Prà, Ca' Rugate, Tenuta Sant'Antonio, Gianni Tessari and Masi. Suavia is known for its varietal Trebbiano di Soave.

Trebbiano di Soave is the same grape as Verdicchio and Turbiana, and is blended with Garganega and Chardonnay. Read our best Soave wines, the best Veneto wines, or browse the grape varieties index.