(by Sara Falchetto) The path of growth and enhancement undertaken by the Garda DOC Consortium does not stop. On June 5, at the Dogana Veneta in Lazise (VR), the denomination will take stock of the results achieved (“Garda DOC between Horeca and GDO: numbers, perceptions and perspectives” this is the title of the study conference) with the analysis of the trend of the denomination, thanks to the data collected by the Observatory of distributors and the direct testimonies of buyers from super and hyper markets.
In this framework it will be possible to begin to answer a strategic question: to understand if and how an area with high potential such as Garda can evolve towards a unitary and identity-based denomination model, following the example of already consolidated experiences and bringing together the great evocative force of Benaco, which is not only the largest lake in Italy – a concentration of history and culture with an impressive food and wine wealth to say the least -, but also the “first Mediterranean beach” for millions of citizens of Northern Europe. A single dimension capable of unifying different territories, production realities of all sizes and a vast range of native vines under a single coherent and recognizable identity.
The Garda DOC Consortium represents one of the most dynamic and interesting entities in the national winemaking landscape. Founded in 1996 with the aim of promoting the varietal wines of the Garda area, it obtained ministerial recognition in 2015 and, since the following year, has operated erga omnes, representing all the producers who claim the denomination. Today it brings together 250 companies on over 30,000 hectares of suitable vineyards, distributed in the provinces of Verona, Brescia and Mantua.
Over time, the denomination has evolved to meet the needs of the contemporary market, progressively expanding its offering: alongside varietal wines, it now includes white and red blends and an increasingly popular sparkling wine line, divided into the “Martinotti” Italian method and the classic method. The main grape varieties include Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, Garganega, Trebbiano, Corvina, Merlot and Cabernet Sauvignon.
In 2024, production exceeded 19 million bottles, with significant growth in Garda Bianco (+59%) and consolidated leadership by Pinot Grigio, which reached almost five million bottles. Sparkling wine production also recorded solid numbers, confirming the market’s interest in Garda’s bubbles.
In addition to the quality of the product, the Consortium has strongly focused on an integrated communication strategy, centered on the identity of the territory. The goal is not only to promote the wines, but to tell a complete experience: the landscape, culture, hospitality and wine tourism offerings of Lake Garda. This vision translates into a coherent narrative and a structured investment in the branding of the denomination, with a communication capable of creating an image that is also recognizable at an international level, also exploiting the potential of the three-year European project “Eccellenze DOP”, which involves Italy, Germany and Austria with the aim of strengthening the notoriety of certified agri-food products in community markets.
