Lambrusco Wine | The Delicious Sparkling Red

Move over Prosecco, there’s a new sparkling Italian wine in town and its name is Lambrusco! And it’s red!

Did you know sparkling reds existed?

You may already be familiar with Lambrusco if you’re a wine drinker. However, you probably identify it as a low-quality, sweet soda. And not the quality wine it actually is.

This delicious wine can be sweet or dry, sparkling or still, depending on the specific type of grape that is used.

In this post, we will explore everything you need to know about Lambrusco wine. We will discuss what it is, how it tastes, and what to pair with it. Plus, we will give you our top 5 picks for the best Lambrusco wines on the market!

What is Lambrusco?

Lambrusco is a sparkling red wine that originates from the Emilia-Romagna region of Italy. It’s is a slightly sparkling (frizzante) red wine from Italy with Etruscan and Roman origins. They can be bone dry to extremely sweet.

The finest Lambruscos are dry (secco) and lightly sweet (semisecco), and they’re almost always produced in a semi-sparkling, frizzante, style.

The Lambrusco grapes are actually a family of grapes, with over 60 different grape varieties.

The most common type of Lambrusco grape is the Lambrusco di Sorbara. This variety is known for its light, floral, fruity, and slightly sweet taste. However, there are also dry varieties of Lambrusco that are less sweet and more tart.

Is Lambrusco a Sweet Wine?

Lambrusco can be either sweet or dry, depending on the specific type of grape used. Lambrusco wines, despite being sparkling, are often light, fizzy, and frothy (i.e. Guiness). They range from bone-dry to extremely sweet and are made in a variety of styles.

Look for the term “dolce” if you’re searching for a sweet Lambrusco wine.

Is Lambrusco Considered a Good Wine?

Lambrusco wines are starting to gain popularity outside of Italy. While it has historically been seen as a low-quality, sweet wine, Lambrusco is actually a high-quality wine that can be either sweet or dry.

It is extremely popular and frequently consumed in Italy, since it complements a wide variety of foods.

How is it Made?

Lambrusco wines are made using the Charmat method, which goes through a process of secondary fermentation in pressurized tanks.

This method is also used to make Prosecco and Moscato wines.

Where Does it Come From?

Lambrusco wine is from the Emilia-Romagna region in northern Italy. This region is located in the north-central part of the country and is known for its food culture.

The most common type of Lambrusco grape, Lambrusco di Sorbara, originates from this area.

What Does Lambrusco Wine Taste Like?

Lambrusco is a wine with bright acidity, floral notes, fruit-driven and generally a low ABV.

It has aromas of cherries, strawberries, blackberry jam, citrus zest, and cream in any sweetness level.

By using the same wine making techniques of other sparkling wines, Lambrusco is acidic and refreshing, but with red wine characteristics and tannins.

What is the Alcohol Content of Lambrusco?

The alcohol content of Lambrusco ranges from 10 to 12 percent.

How Should I Serve It?

Lambrusco wines should be served chilled, between fifty-two (52) and fifty-eight (58) degrees Fahrenheit. It can be served in a traditional wine glass or any glass.

What Foods Pair With Lambrusco?

Lambrusco is a versatile wine that pairs well with a variety of foods. It is often served with pizza and pasta dishes. It can also be paired with grilled meats, such as steak, BBQ ribs, or lamb.

Lambrusco is a great match for Prosciutto di Parma because of its high acidity. And the bright, fresh, effervescent tastes cut right through the fat without overpowering the cured meat. It’s also a wonderful complement with Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese. Charcuterie and cheese boards are therefore an excellent choice.

What are the Best Lambrusco Wines to Drink?

1) Cleto Chiarli Centenario Lambrusco Grasparossa di Castelvetro Amabile N.V.

This light-bodied lambrusco has aromas of red berries and cherries. On the palate, it is sweet with flavors of strawberries and raspberries. It has a frothy texture and a long, cherry finish. And for only ~$15 I highly recommend this wine.

2) Opera02 di Ca’ Montanari Lambrusco di Modena Secco N.V.

This pleasantly scented Lambrusco features a fruit aroma of ripe red berries and blueberries. The scent is fruity, yet slightly sweet on the tongue, with creamy foam following.

3) Venturini Baldini Montelocco Lambrusco Emilia N.V.

This Lambrusco is medium-bodied with aromas of red fruit and mushrooms. On the palate, it is sweet with flavors of strawberries and cherries. It has a frothy texture and a long, fruity finish.

4) Ceci Otello 1813 Nero di Lambrusco N.V.

This Lambrusco is medium-bodied with aromas of strawberries, red fruit, and raspberries. On the palate, it is dry with flavors of blackberry and hint of vanilla.

5) Fattoria Moretto Vignaioli in Castelvetrano Secco

This Lambrusco is medium-bodied with flavors of blueberry jam, plum, leather, and cherries. It has a dry and tannic finish.