The Lambrusco grape is a distinctive black-skinned variety that is inherently Italian. Hailing from several zones in Emilia-Romagna and Lombardy regions of Northern Italy, it's closely associated with these areas, having profoundly influenced their winemaking history and traditions. The ancient grape, well-known since Roman times, is a vital part of the country's vinicultural identity.
The Lambrusco grape's unique characteristic is that it's used primarily for production of slightly sparkling wine, known as frizzante. The appeal of Lambrusco wine is its vibrant freshness accompanied by delectable fruity and spicy flavours. With a typically deep purple hue, this bubbly wine quite intriguingly balances sweetness with an underlying dryness, which is well complemented by a refreshing acidity and soft tannins.
One of the secrets of the Lambrusco grape lies in its versatility. There are over 60 varieties of this grape, with Lambrusco di Sorbara, Lambrusco Salamino and Lambrusco Grasparossa being the most eminent. Each variety offers something unique - from lighter strawberries-and-cream elegance of Sorbara to the more robust, full-bodied Grasparossa wines.
Lambrusco grapes are also widely appreciated for delivering easy-to-drink, low-alcohol wines which pair extraordinarily well with a variety of dishes. Whether it's pairing with cheese, pasta, or the regional cuisine of Emilia-Romagna like Parmigiano-Reggiano and Prosciutto di Parma, Lambrusco wine proves a versatile companion.
Although Lambrusco suffered a damaged reputation in the past due to mass-produced sweet versions of the wine, it is now experiencing a renaissance. The current generation of winemakers are committed to showcasing the true high-quality potential of this grape, producing artisanal handcrafted wines that highlight the variety and distinct regional expression of the Lambrusco grape. Through this, Lambrusco is gradually re-establishing its prominence on the global wine stage.
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