Our Score: 88
In the 60s a sweet and not-very-refined Lambrusco became popular in the USA. That product is very different from the ones imported today.
In the last 10-15 years many importers started bringing in the whole range of Lambrusco clones. From Sorbara, crisp and super-light in color, to the dark Grasparossa (such as this one) and Lambrusco Maestri or Salamino.
Four things all Lambrusco have in common: bright acidity; strawberry-raspberry clear note at the nose; the typical fizziness of the vinification process and relatively low alcohol level.
This Grasparossa from Castelvetro from Cleto Chiarli, the oldest producer in the region, is an everyday wine for people who like the nose of violets and field flowers, a taste of fruit in the glass, with a fizzy acidity and a touch of sapidity. Easy to drink, it’s by far preferable semi-cold (45-55ºF).
Grape: Lambrusco Grasparossa
Pairing: Lambrusco Grasparossa is perfect with a bite of aged Parmigiano (not parmesan, please!) or accompanying a board of prosciutto di Parma and gnocco fritto. Also good with meat ravioli in beef broth, or lasagna with Bolognese sauce.
Appellation: Lambrusco di Modena DOC