Lambrusco wines

Pearls in a Glass: The Fascination of Lambrusco Wine

Lambrusco - a name that makes the hearts of wine lovers beat faster. This sparkling Italian wine has become synonymous with refreshing yet sophisticated enjoyment. With its lively carbonation, rich history, and a wide range of flavors, Lambrusco enjoys worldwide popularity. Let us dive deep into the world of this great wine and reveal what makes it so special.

Lambrusco is a very old family of red grape varieties native to Italy. It is believed that this red wine was already cultivated during the time of the Etruscans. The Lambrusco grape family includes over 60 varieties. The most well-known representatives are the Lambrusco Salamino, Lambrusco Maestri, Lambrusco Grasparossa, and Lambrusco Sorbara varieties.

Lambrusco from Emilia-Romagna

The area planted with Lambrusco vines in Italy amounts to over 10,000 hectares. Lambrusco is primarily grown in the Emilia-Romagna wine region. However, cultivation areas for this Italian red wine can also be found in Lombardy, Apulia, Sicily, and Piedmont.

Origin and Diversity: A Journey Through the Vineyards of Emilia

History and Origin

The history of Lambrusco wine dates back to ancient Rome, where the first traces of the grape variety were found. Lambrusco originally comes from the Emilia-Romagna region in northern Italy, specifically from the provinces of Modena, Reggio Emilia, and Parma. The combination of climate, soil, and tradition makes Emilia-Romagna the ideal place for Lambrusco cultivation.

The Diversity of Lambrusco

Under the name "Lambrusco," various grape varieties are grouped together. Each of them has subtle differences in aroma, color, and taste. Here are some of the most well-known Lambrusco varieties:

1. Lambrusco di Sorbara: Light, floral, and refreshing, often with a bright color.
2. Lambrusco Salamino: Intense, fruity flavor with a deep ruby red color.
3. Lambrusco Grasparossa: Strong and full-bodied, with a deep color and notes of berries.
4. Lambrusco Reggiano: Dry and elegant wine, often aged for longer.

A Feast of Senses: Aromas and Enjoyment

The Art of Bubbles

The trademark of Lambrusco is undoubtedly its sparkling nature. The effervescence, meaning the fine carbonation, gives the wine freshness and liveliness. This makes Lambrusco an ideal choice for social occasions and warm summer days.

Diversity of Aromas and Flavors

Lambrusco surprises with a wide range of flavors. From fresh red fruits like cherries and strawberries to subtle notes of flowers and spices. Each sip reveals a new facet. Depending on the variety and production style, the taste can range from dry and refreshing to semi-dry or even sweet.

Perfect Pairings: Culinary Adventures with Lambrusco

Traditional Italian Cuisine

Lambrusco is not just a wine but a culinary experience. In Italy, it is often served with classic dishes like Parma ham, lasagna, pizza, and antipasti. The lively acidity and fruity aromas create a harmonious balance and enhance the flavors of the food.

International Creativity

Beyond Italy, Lambrusco opens up space for creative pairings. From burger nights to cuisines like Asian or Mexican. The versatility of Lambrusco allows for crossing flavor boundaries and discovering new enjoyment horizons.

Lambrusco: A Sparkling Red Wine

In Italy, sparkling, fruity red and rosé wines (= Lambrusco Frizzante) are primarily made from Lambrusco grapes. Until recently, these Lambrusco Frizzante were produced as real mass products. They could not be missing as an everyday drink in any Italian establishment. Nowadays, there is a renewed focus on the qualities of traditional Lambrusco wine.

From Dry to Sweet

This wine is relatively dry and has a typically fruity-bitter taste. Thus, traditional Lambrusco cultivation can produce top wines that harmonize very well with the local cuisine. Such Italian wines are offered under designations of origin like Lambrusco di Castelvetro, Lambrusco di Sorbara, and Lambrusco di Salamino di Santa Croce by smaller wineries. However, not only sparkling wines but also delicious still wines are produced from Lambrusco grapes.

Intense Color and Low Alcohol

Lambrusco wines are characterized by their intense red color and low alcohol content. According to DOC regulations, it may be a maximum of 10.5% vol. They have aromas of cherries and strawberries, are low in tannin, have refreshing acidity, and taste slightly bitter.

Sometimes Dry, Sometimes Sweet, but Almost Always Sparkling

Red, white, or rosé - Lambrusco comes in all colors. In 99 out of 100 cases, it is a sparkling wine presented either dry or sweet. The latter is particularly known for Lambrusco. A synonym for the sweet life, the dolce vita. Delicious, uncomplicated, and without pretensions. The fresh Lambrusco wines are the perfect companion for sunny days in a deck chair under the sunshade.

Lambrusco vs. Fragolino

Lambrusco and Fragolino - these are two delightful drops. The sparkling, fruity duo from Italy offers sweet enjoyment for all occasions. Both sparkling wines come from the vineyards around Modena - a coincidence? Hardly. Rather, the local winemakers know how to celebrate life. So, if you like Fragolino, you won't go wrong with Lambrusco.

The DOP Regions for Lambrusco Wine from Modena

Around the city of Modena, the cultivation area for Lambrusco is divided into four DOP regions. Each with its own terroir, each with typical varieties of the Lambrusco grape.

• Sorbara: Lambrusco from the DOP Sorbara is vinified from the grape variety of the same name, Lambrusco di Sorbara. The variety yields only small quantities, making the wines a sought-after rarity. The vines grow on loose, sandy alluvial soil between the Secchia and Panaro rivers.

• Salamino di Santa Croce: North of Modena lies the district of Capri. From here, the Lambrusco vine has spread throughout the entire area. The main focus of the local winemakers is on the Lambrusco Salamino variety, which produces rich yields. According to DOP regulations, other Lambrusco varieties and Fortana, called Uva d’Oro, may also be used in small amounts. In the fertile lowland, characterized by sand, mud, and clay, ruby red Lambrusco wines with violet reflections are produced. On the palate, the wine appears fresh, fruity, and slightly sour. Perfect for the Emilian cuisine, which offers delicious dishes with pasta and roasts.

• Modena: The Lambrusco di Modena is based on all Lambrusco grape varieties that are grown within the city limits. This cuvée was created as early as the mid-18th century and has lost nothing of its quality to this day.

• Grasparossa di Castelvetro: From the dry locations of the hilly area to the lowlands, Lambrusco Grasparossa vines thrive. Thanks to the diversity of soils, Lambrusco Grasparossa di Castelvetro develops into a structured and full-bodied sparkling wine.

Conclusion: A Sparkling Heritage of the Italian Wine World

The Lambrusco wine has managed to establish itself over the centuries as a fascinating wine option. Its sparkling nature, variety of aromas, and culinary versatility make it a companion for many occasions. Whether as a traditional Italian addition or as an innovative wine for modern connoisseurs. Lambrusco remains a pearl in the world of wine. Discover the magic of this sparkling creation and immerse yourself in an unparalleled moment of enjoyment.

In our wine shipping, you will find a variety of Lambrusco wines.