Lambrusco, Italy’s beloved sparkling red wine, is making a well-deserved comeback. Known for its fizzy personality and fruity notes, Lambrusco hails from Emilia-Romagna, a region famous for its hearty cuisine and culinary treasures like Parmigiano-Reggiano and Prosciutto di Parma. Whether you’re a seasoned sommelier or new to this charming wine, knowing how to pair Lambrusco will enhance your dining experience and bring out the best in every sip.

The Basics of Lambrusco

Lambrusco is more than just one wine; it’s a family of grape varieties that produce a delightful range of sparkling reds. These wines vary from dry (secco) to semi-sweet (amabile) and sweet (dolce), catering to different tastes. Among the most popular varieties are Lambrusco Grasparossa, Sorbara, and Salamino. Each has its unique character, but they all share a common thread: a lively sparkle, notes of red berries and cherries, and a refreshing acidity that makes them wonderfully food-friendly.

Mastering the Pairings

Lambrusco is the ultimate versatile wine when it comes to food pairing. Its effervescence, acidity, and fruit-forward nature make it a perfect companion for a variety of dishes. Take cured meats and salumi, for example. The wine’s acidity slices through the richness of Prosciutto di Parma or mortadella, while its fruitiness enhances their savory depth. It’s no surprise that Lambrusco is a favorite choice for antipasti platters.

Cheeses also shine when paired with this wine. Hard cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano or Grana Padano find their match in the wine’s bright, tangy notes, while creamy options like Gorgonzola benefit from its light fizz. For a classic Italian experience, enjoy Lambrusco alongside a cheese and charcuterie board.

Pizza is another natural partner for Lambrusco. Whether it’s a simple Margherita or a luxurious prosciutto and arugula pizza, the wine’s acidity cuts through the richness of melted cheese and complements the tangy tomato sauce. Similarly, pasta dishes such as lasagna or tagliatelle al ragù (Bolognese) pair wonderfully with Lambrusco, as its fruity notes bring out the flavors of the tomato and meat sauces.

For meat lovers, Lambrusco Grasparossa, the boldest variety, works beautifully with grilled or roasted meats. The wine’s tannins stand up to the smoky char of BBQ ribs or the richness of roasted lamb. Even fried foods, like arancini or calamari, are elevated when paired with Lambrusco. Its bubbles cleanse the palate, making each bite as delightful as the first.

Sweet styles of Lambrusco, such as dolce, are perfect for desserts. Fresh berries, panna cotta, and even chocolate treats find a harmonious companion in the wine’s gentle sweetness.

Serving Tips

For the best experience, always serve Lambrusco chilled. A temperature of around 8–12°C (46–54°F) brings out its refreshing sparkle and enhances its vibrant fruit flavors. Use a large wine glass or a stemmed tumbler to fully appreciate its aroma and fizz. When opening a bottle, be cautious—it’s sparkling, so the pressure can cause a surprise pop!

Lambrusco’s charm lies in its ability to elevate casual meals and refined dinners alike. Whether you’re savoring it with traditional Emilia-Romagna fare or exploring creative pairings, this wine promises a delightful journey for the palate. Visit Bottega Italiana to explore our carefully curated selection of Lambrusco wines and discover your perfect pairing. Cheers to embracing the joy of this sparkling Italian treasure!

Photo by Gail from Calgary, Canada, CC BY 2.0, via Wikimedia Commons