Le Grotte Lambrusco Reggiano
Le Grotte Lambrusco Reggiano
GRAPES: Lambrusco
VINTAGE: Unknown
REGION: Emilia Romagna, Italy
ALCOHOL PERCENTAGE: 8.5%
PRICE: $5.49
This week’s featured TJ Tuesday wine is not one that I commonly drink and to be honest, I rarely find it on menus at restaurants. Lambrusco has earned a reputation of being overly sweet and mass-produced. While that may have been the case in the ’80s, wine producers are creating magical effervescent red wine filled with flavor and depth.
You might be scratching your head wondering why in the world I chose this wine to highlight during the “Drink The Rainbow” series. First, I selected this wine because I can’t remember the last time I’ve had Lambrusco and I was curious to see if it had the potential to be included in my summer rotation of wine. Second, Lambrusco has less than a stellar reputation, but just because the “gen-pop” doesn’t care for it, doesn’t mean it’s terrible. I wanted to taste it and form my own opinions.
After googling the pronunciation of the region ( which by the way, I really need to learn Italian), I poured myself a glass, gave it a few swirls, and started to sip. Without further ado, let’s talk Lambrusco!
TASTING NOTES:
Champagne Cork
Filled with aromas of red-berry fruit, specifically cherries, and strawberries
Slight effervescence
Certainly falls on the sweeter side, however, I’d say the wine is well balanced
The palate mirrors the aromas and you can definitely taste the strawberries
Trader Joe’s recommends pairing this with Mexican food and tomato filled dishes
Verdict: For those of you who aren’t familiar with Lambrusco, it’s a wine that’s best enjoyed chilled. Some people prefer to serve it in a champagne flute but it can be served in a heartier glass, which is what I prefer. If you are a fan of sweeter wines, this is something that you’ll want to include in your summertime rotation. However, if you snarl at sweetness, stay away. Given the affordable price point, I’d certainly buy this wine again.
Until Next Time!