Emilia-Romagna, a region synonymous with culinary excellence, is not only the birthplace of Parmigiano-Reggiano and Prosciutto di Parma but also home to one of Italy’s most iconic wines—Lambrusco. This effervescent red wine, known for its vibrant acidity, refreshing bubbles, and wide range of flavors, is an integral part of the region’s cultural and gastronomic heritage. In 2024, exploring Lambrusco in Modena and Parma offers wine lovers an unparalleled experience, combining history, tradition, and innovation. This guide provides an in-depth look at the best wineries to visit, the styles of Lambrusco to try, and how to fully immerse yourself in the world of this beloved sparkling red.

Understanding Lambrusco: A Brief Overview

Lambrusco is not just a single grape variety; rather, it is a family of grapes native to the Emilia-Romagna region. The most notable varieties include Lambrusco di Sorbara, Lambrusco Grasparossa, Lambrusco Salamino, and Lambrusco Maestri, each offering distinct characteristics in terms of color, flavor, and structure. Traditionally, Lambrusco was enjoyed as a sweet, low-alcohol wine, but in recent years, winemakers have embraced dry and semi-dry styles that highlight the grape’s natural acidity and fruity freshness.

Lambrusco is often dismissed as a simple, inexpensive wine, but the reality is far more complex. The wine’s versatility allows it to pair beautifully with the rich, hearty dishes of Emilia-Romagna, making it a staple at local tables. The best examples of Lambrusco are made with care, often using organic or biodynamic practices, and can rival the complexity and elegance of more renowned wine regions.

The Styles of Lambrusco

1. Lambrusco di Sorbara: Light in color and body, this variety is known for its floral aromas and high acidity, making it one of the most refined expressions of Lambrusco.
2. Lambrusco Grasparossa: The darkest and most tannic of the Lambrusco varieties, Grasparossa offers robust flavors of black fruit and earth, with a slightly bitter finish.
3. Lambrusco Salamino: Balanced with good acidity and tannins, this variety is versatile and often used in blends to add structure.
4. Lambrusco Maestri: Known for its deep color and rich, fruity flavors, this variety adds depth and intensity to Lambrusco blends.

Lambrusco Wineries in Modena

1. Chiarli

Location: Via Manin, 15, 41043 Formigine (MO), Italy
Website: Chiarli Winery
Contact: [email protected] | +39 059 702761

Founded in 1860, Chiarli is one of the oldest and most prestigious Lambrusco producers in Modena. The winery has played a pivotal role in the global recognition of Lambrusco, offering a range of wines that showcase the diversity of the grape. Chiarli’s vineyards are spread across the Modenese plains, where the combination of fertile soil and a favorable microclimate produces grapes of exceptional quality.

Signature Wines:

• Vecchia Modena Premium Lambrusco di Sorbara: A light, crisp wine with floral notes and a dry finish, this is one of the winery’s flagship products.
• Lambrusco del Fondatore: Produced using the ancestral method, this wine is unfiltered, offering a raw, authentic expression of Lambrusco di Sorbara.
• Vigneto Cialdini Lambrusco Grasparossa di Castelvetro: A rich, full-bodied wine with robust tannins and deep fruit flavors, perfect for pairing with hearty meats.

Visiting Chiarli: The winery offers guided tours of its historic cellars, where visitors can learn about the history of Lambrusco and the Chiarli family’s winemaking legacy. Tastings are available by appointment, providing an opportunity to sample a range of Lambrusco styles paired with local delicacies.

2. Cantina Paltrinieri

Location: Via del Cristo, 49, 41030 Sorbara (MO), Italy
Website: Cantina Paltrinieri
Contact: [email protected] | +39 059 902 047

Cantina Paltrinieri, located in the heart of Sorbara, has been producing Lambrusco for nearly a century. The winery is family-run and specializes in Lambrusco di Sorbara, a grape variety known for its elegance and delicate aromas. The Paltrinieri family is deeply committed to traditional winemaking practices, focusing on low yields and organic farming to ensure the highest quality.

Signature Wines:

• Radice: An ancestral method Lambrusco di Sorbara, known for its light pink color, vibrant acidity, and bone-dry finish.
• Leclisse: A more structured Lambrusco di Sorbara, offering a balanced profile with notes of red berries and a refreshing minerality.
• Lariserva: A reserve wine that showcases the depth and aging potential of the Sorbara grape, with complex flavors and a long finish.

Visiting Cantina Paltrinieri: The winery offers intimate tours where visitors can explore the vineyards, learn about the unique characteristics of Lambrusco di Sorbara, and taste the winery’s elegant wines. Tours are available by reservation.

3. Opera02

Location: Via Medusia, 32, 41014 Levizzano di Castelvetro (MO), Italy
Website: Opera02
Contact: [email protected] | +39 059 741 019

Opera02 is more than just a winery; it is a luxurious estate that offers a full wine tourism experience. Located in the picturesque hills of Levizzano Rangone, the estate produces organic Lambrusco and offers a range of experiences, from wine tastings to gourmet dining and luxury accommodations. The winery is known for its innovative approach to Lambrusco production, including the use of the traditional Champagne method for some of its wines.

Signature Wines:

• Lambrusco Grasparossa di Castelvetro: A bold, full-bodied wine with intense fruit flavors and a balanced tannic structure.
• Vino Frizzante Bianco: A sparkling white wine made using the traditional method, offering delicate bubbles and a crisp finish.
• Otello Nero di Lambrusco: A dark, richly flavored Lambrusco with notes of blackberry and violet, perfect for special occasions.

Visiting Opera02: Visitors can enjoy a range of experiences at Opera02, including guided tours of the vineyards and cellars, wine tastings paired with local cuisine, and stays in the estate’s luxurious suites. The winery’s restaurant and bistrot offer gourmet meals made with ingredients sourced from the estate’s organic farm.

4. Cavicchioli

Location: Via Canaletto, 52, 41030 San Prospero (MO), Italy
Website: Cavicchioli Winery
Contact: +39 059 812412

Cavicchioli is a historic winery that has been producing Lambrusco since 1928. Located in San Prospero, the winery is known for its elegant and authentic Lambrusco wines, which capture the essence of the Modenese terroir. Cavicchioli offers a range of Lambrusco styles, from dry to sweet, all crafted with a focus on quality and tradition.

Signature Wines:

• Cavicchioli 1928 Lambrusco di Sorbara DOC: A light, fragrant wine with notes of cherry and violet, perfect for pairing with antipasti.
• Cavicchioli Vigna del Cristo Lambrusco di Sorbara: A single-vineyard Lambrusco with a refined structure and complex aromas.
• Cavicchioli Lambrusco Grasparossa di Castelvetro DOC: A full-bodied wine with rich fruit flavors and a lingering finish.

Visiting Cavicchioli: The winery offers a unique dining experience at Foresteria Cavicchioli, where visitors can enjoy traditional Modenese cuisine paired with the winery’s finest wines. Tours of the vineyard and cellars are available by appointment.

5. Cantina Santa Croce

Location: Via Statale 468 di Correggio, 35, 41012 Santa Croce di Carpi (MO), Italy
Website: Cantina Santa Croce
Contact: [email protected] | +39 059 664007

Cantina Santa Croce is a cooperative winery that dates back to 1907 and has a deep-rooted tradition in producing high-quality Lambrusco. Located in Santa Croce di Carpi, the winery is particularly known for its production of Lambrusco Salamino di Santa Croce DOC, a variety that carries the name of the local grape. The winery combines traditional winemaking techniques with modern technology, ensuring that their wines reflect the rich heritage of the region.

Signature Wines:

• Lambrusco Salamino di Santa Croce DOC: Known for its balance of acidity and tannins, this wine is versatile and pairs well with a variety of foods.
• Lambrusco di Sorbara DOC: A lighter, more delicate Lambrusco that showcases the elegance of the Sorbara grape.
• Pignoletto Frizzante: A sparkling white wine that offers fresh, fruity flavors, perfect as an aperitif.

Visiting Cantina Santa Croce: While the winery doesn’t advertise detailed tour options, those interested in exploring its offerings can contact the winery directly to arrange a visit. The tours typically include a look at the production process and tastings of their best wines.

6. Zanasi

Location: Via Settecani Cavidole, 41051 Castelvetro di Modena, Italy
Website: Zanasi Winery
Contact: +39 059 702193

Zanasi is a family-owned winery that has been producing wine in Castelvetro since 1883. The winery has a deep connection to the land, and its vineyards benefit from the unique microclimate of the Modenese hills. Zanasi is known for its dedication to traditional winemaking methods and its commitment to sustainability.

Signature Wines:

• Lambrusco Grasparossa di Castelvetro DOC: This wine is the flagship of Zanasi, offering rich, dark fruit flavors and a robust tannic structure.
• Rosso Emilia IGT: A blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon, this wine is balanced and smooth, with notes of dark berries and spices.
• Neroduva: Made from overripe Ancellotta and Malbo Gentile grapes, this wine offers complex aromas and a deep, intense flavor profile.

Visiting Zanasi: Zanasi welcomes visitors to explore its vineyards and cellars, where they can learn about the winery’s history and taste a selection of its wines. Tours are available by appointment and provide a deep dive into the traditional winemaking practices of the region.

7. Cantina della Volta

Location: Via Per Modena n. 82, 41030 Bomporto (MO), Italy
Website: Cantina della Volta
Contact: [email protected] | +39 059 7473312

Cantina della Volta, located in Bomporto, is a standout winery in the Modena area known for its innovative approach to Lambrusco production. The Bellei family, who has been involved in winemaking for generations, focuses on using the Traditional Method (Metodo Classico) for sparkling wines, bringing a Champagne-like finesse to their Lambrusco.

Signature Wines:

• Brut Rosso Lambrusco di Sorbara DOC: A sophisticated, dry Lambrusco with fine bubbles and vibrant acidity, ideal for pairing with rich dishes.
• Lambrusco in Bianco: A white Lambrusco made from red grapes, offering floral aromas and a crisp finish.
• Rosé di Modena Spumante: A delicate and elegant sparkling rosé made entirely from Lambrusco di Sorbara, perfect for celebrations.

Visiting Cantina della Volta: The winery offers a range of tours and tastings, allowing visitors to explore the unique production process and taste their refined sparkling wines. Tours typically include a walk through the vineyards, a visit to the production area, and a guided tasting in their elegant tasting room.

8. Vittorio Graziano

Location: Via Lunga, 7b, 41014 Castelvetro di Modena, Italy

Vittorio Graziano is a legendary figure in the Modenese winemaking scene, known for his dedication to preserving traditional methods and rare grape varieties. His winery, located in Castelvetro di Modena, produces some of the most authentic and characterful Lambruscos, all crafted using the Metodo Ancestrale or ancestral method.

Signature Wines:

• Fontana dei Boschi: A Lambrusco made from a mix of traditional local varieties, offering vibrant acidity, minerality, and earthy tones.
• Sassoscuro: Made from Malbo Gentile, this wine offers flavors of dark chocolate and spices, with a tannic structure that stands out.
• Smilzo: A sparkling rosé with structure and complexity, making it versatile for various food pairings.

Visiting Vittorio Graziano: Visits to the winery are informal and offer a glimpse into the rustic, traditional world of Lambrusco production. It’s best to contact the winery directly to arrange a visit.

Lambrusco Wineries in Reggio Emilia

1. Medici Ermete

Location: Via Newton 13/A, Gaida di Reggio Emilia, 42124 (RE), Italy
Website: Medici Ermete
Contact: [email protected] | +39 0522 942135

Medici Ermete is one of the most prestigious Lambrusco producers in Reggio Emilia, with a history that dates back to 1890. The winery is known for its dedication to quality and sustainability, with vineyards cultivated using organic practices. Medici Ermete’s Concerto Lambrusco is widely regarded as one of the finest examples of Lambrusco Reggiano.

Signature Wines:

• Concerto Lambrusco Reggiano DOC: A dry, elegant Lambrusco with vibrant red fruit flavors and a fine, persistent perlage.
• Phermento Lambrusco: Made using the ancestral method, this unfiltered wine offers a raw, authentic expression of Lambrusco.
• Quintessenza Lambrusco di Sorbara: A refined, delicate wine with floral notes and a refreshing acidity.

Visiting Medici Ermete: The estate offers guided tours that include a walk through the vineyards, a visit to the production area, and a tasting of their award-winning wines. The tours are tailored to showcase the winery’s commitment to sustainable practices and high-quality production.

2. Albinea Canali

Location: Via Tassoni n. 213, Canali, Reggio Emilia, Italy
Website: Albinea Canali
Contact: [email protected] | +39 0522 569505

Albinea Canali is a historic cooperative winery founded in 1936 in the Canali district of Reggio Emilia. The winery is known for producing high-quality Lambrusco, combining traditional methods with modern innovation. The Ottocento line of wines is particularly notable for its elegance and modern appeal.

Signature Wines:

• OttocentoNero: A refined Lambrusco with deep color and robust flavors, ideal for pairing with rich dishes.
• OttocentoRosa: A sparkling rosé that is elegant and versatile, perfect for aperitifs or light meals.
• Lambrusco Salamino di Santa Croce DOC: A balanced, versatile Lambrusco that captures the essence of the Reggio Emilia terroir.

Visiting Albinea Canali: The winery offers a welcoming atmosphere for visitors, with guided tours available by appointment. The tours include a visit to the historic cellars and a tasting of their finest wines in a beautifully restored tasting room.

3. Storchi

Location: Strada per San Polo 52, Montecchio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
Website: Storchi Winery
Contact: +39 0522 865957

Storchi is a family-owned winery located in the Val d’Enza Valley, dedicated to biodynamic farming and natural winemaking. Established in 1999 by the Storchi brothers, the winery produces a range of wines that are rich in character and complexity, using indigenous grape varieties such as Ancellotta, Lambrusco Maestri, and Lambrusco Salamino.

Signature Wines:

• Pozzoferrato: A robust red wine made from Ancellotta, Lambrusco Maestri, and Lambrusco Salamino, known for its deep flavors and tannic structure.
• Braje: A blend of Mer### Storchi

Location: Strada per San Polo 52, Montecchio Emilia, Reggio Emilia, Italy
Website: Storchi Winery
Contact: +39 0522 865957

Storchi is a family-owned winery located in the Val d’Enza Valley, dedicated to biodynamic farming and natural winemaking. Established in 1999 by the Storchi brothers, the winery produces a range of wines that are rich in character and complexity, using indigenous grape varieties such as Ancellotta, Lambrusco Maestri, and Lambrusco Salamino.

Signature Wines:

• Pozzoferrato: A robust red wine made from Ancellotta, Lambrusco Maestri, and Lambrusco Salamino, known for its deep flavors and tannic structure.
• Braje: A blend of Merlot, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon, offering a rich and balanced profile.
• Neroduva: A unique red wine made from overripe Ancellotta and Malbo Gentile grapes, characterized by its intense color and complex aromas.

Visiting Storchi: The winery offers a welcoming experience for visitors who are interested in exploring their biodynamic practices and tasting their wines. The winery’s location in Montecchio Emilia provides a picturesque backdrop for wine tastings and tours.

4. Cinque Campi

Location: Via F. Menozzi 27, Puianello di Quattro Castella, Reggio Emilia, Italy
Website: Cinque Campi

Cinque Campi is a small, family-run winery with a deep connection to its land, having been passed down through generations for over 200 years. The winery is managed by Vanni Nizzoli, who has taken the winery into the modern era while maintaining its deep connection to traditional winemaking practices. The vineyard spans about 6.8 hectares and is known for its organic and natural wine production.

Signature Wines:

• Lambrusco Rosso Frizzante: The flagship wine of Cinque Campi, made primarily from Lambrusco Grasparossa, complemented by Malbo Gentile and Marzemino. It is a naturally fermented sparkling red wine, offering lush fruit flavors with a hint of earthiness and well-incorporated tannins.
• Le Marcone: A still red wine made from Malbo Gentile, Cabernet Sauvignon, Marzemino, and Terrano. It is aged for 24 months in oak barrels, delivering rustic yet ripe flavors with balsamic notes and a tannic grip.
• Particella 128: A sparkling wine made from the local Spergola grape variety, known for its elegance and fine bubbles.

Visiting Cinque Campi: The winery offers a unique and authentic wine experience. Visitors can explore the vineyards, learn about the natural winemaking process, and taste a selection of the winery’s distinctive wines.

5. Podere Cipolla

Location: Coviolo, Reggio Emilia, Italy
Website: Podere Cipolla

Podere Cipolla is a small, artisanal winery established in 2003 by Denny Bini. The winery spans a few hectares and is known for its dedication to producing Lambrusco wines using the classic method of secondary fermentation in the bottle. The winery focuses on organic and natural methods, ensuring that their wines are a true reflection of the Emilia-Romagna terroir.

Signature Wines:

• Ponente 270: A deep, mouth-staining red sparkling wine with flavors of plum, black cherry, and pomegranate, made from a blend of local Lambrusco varieties.
• Rosa dei Venti: A sparkling rosé with lively bubbles and refreshing acidity, perfect for summer afternoons.
• Lambrusco Grasparossa di Castelvetro: A robust and tannic Lambrusco with rich fruit flavors, ideal for pairing with hearty dishes.

Visiting Podere Cipolla: Although the winery is small and not primarily focused on tourism, visits can be arranged by contacting the winery directly. The experience offers a look into the traditional methods of Lambrusco production and a tasting of the winery’s unique wines.

Lambrusco Wineries in Parma

1. Monte delle Vigne

Location: Via Monticello 22, Ozzano Taro, Collecchio (PR), Italy
Website: Monte delle Vigne
Contact: [email protected] | +39 0521 309704

Monte delle Vigne is a prestigious winery located in the hills of Ozzano Taro, just outside Parma. Established in 1983, the estate started with a modest 7 hectares and has since expanded to cover 40 hectares, producing a variety of high-quality wines that reflect the unique terroir of the region.

Signature Wines:

• Nabucco: A red wine that showcases the rich, structured character of the Colli di Parma region.
• Callas: A white wine made from Malvasia Aromatica, celebrated for its aromatic complexity and elegance.
• Lambrusco Grasparossa di Castelvetro DOC: A bold, full-bodied wine with intense fruit flavors and a balanced tannic structure.

Visiting Monte delle Vigne: The winery offers a range of immersive wine experiences, including guided tours of the vineyards and cellars, followed by tastings of their signature wines paired with local delicacies. The winery’s tasting room offers panoramic views of the surrounding hills, making it a picturesque setting for exploring the estate’s offerings.

2. Cantine Ceci

Location: Strada Provinciale di Golese 99, Torrile (PR), Italy
Website: Cantine Ceci
Contact: [email protected] | +39 0521 810252

Cantine Ceci is a renowned winery located in the province of Parma, founded in 1938 by Otello Ceci, a tavern keeper who turned his passion for Lambrusco into a thriving business. Over the decades, the Ceci family has expanded the winery and its offerings, transforming it into one of Italy’s most innovative and well-known producers of Lambrusco.

Signature Wines:

• Otello Nero di Lambrusco: A dark, richly flavored Lambrusco with notes of blackberry and violet, perfect for special occasions.
• Terre Verdiane: A traditional Lambrusco that is widely appreciated in Italian cuisine.
• Otellon’Ice: A sparkling wine served on ice, known for its modern, elegant style.

Visiting Cantine Ceci: The winery offers a welcoming atmosphere for visitors interested in exploring the world of Lambrusco and other local wines. Although tours and tastings are temporarily suspended due to renovations, the winery is usually open for visits where guests can explore the cellars and enjoy tastings of their celebrated wines.

Conclusion

Exploring the world of Lambrusco in Modena and Parma offers a unique opportunity to discover the rich history, diverse flavors, and innovative practices that define this beloved wine. Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or a curious traveler, the wineries in these regions provide a deep dive into the cultural and culinary heritage of Emilia-Romagna. From the elegant Lambrusco di Sorbara to the robust Lambrusco Grasparossa, each winery offers a distinct expression of the terroir, making every visit a new adventure in taste.