Paltrinieri, Grosso 2020

Not your parents, Lambrusco. This Lambrusco shatters those old expectations of sweet reds at the first sip.

This Lambrusco shatters expectations at the first sip. Crafted in the champagne method with a minimum of 30 months of aging, the nose is complex and fresh with green apple and pear, notes of caramelized fruit, violets, and strawberry aromas that pop out of the glass. On the palate, fine, persistent bubbles create a gentle mousse that carries flavors of tart lemon and orange bitters. The mouthwatering acidity is precise with a texture that remains elegantly smooth. Each sip ends with a long and delicate floral finish that invites you back for more.

This sparkler really comes alive with food. It's particularly good with prosciutto di Parma and other cured meats and semi-hard aged cheeses – the bubbles and acidity provide a beautiful counterpoint. It's a charcuterie board's best friend.

Alberto Paltrinieri and Barbara are fourth-generation stewards of their family estate, established in 1926. Since 1998 Alberto has worked to break Lambrusco's reputation of sweeter bubbly traditionally made with multi-grape blends. Alberto focuses on a single grape, Sorbara, known for its elegance and complexity. Using the 'metodo classico' production method and extended aging represents a bold departure from conventional Lambrusco making. This innovative spirit places Paltrinieri at the forefront of a regional change and is a reminder to not get stuck identifying any one region by only its past productions.