The Lambrusco family is mainly associated with the Emilia-Romagna region and probably the oldest family of grapes in Italy. The wines made from them are typically sparkling reds, or rosatos ranging from dry (‘secco’), to off-dry (‘semi-secco’) and sweet (‘dolce’). In terms of style, the lightest in terms of body and colour is Sorbara, the darkest-coloured, richest and most structured is Grasparossa, whilst Salamino occupies the middle ground.

NB: The Lambrusco clan is unrelated to the Vitis labrusca grapevine species of North America.

Family members: Lambrusco di Sorbara. | Lambrusco Grasparossa. | Lambrusco Salamino. | Lambrusco Maestri. | Lambrusco Marani.

Bibliography

Italian Wine Unplugged (Positive Press, 2017), p.49.