Emilia Romagna: Beyond Lambrusco, a World of Wine Awaits
Emilia Romagna. The name conjures images of rich cuisine: prosciutto di Parma, Parmigiano Reggiano cheese, balsamic vinegar from Modena. But this region in Northern Italy is also a powerhouse of wine production, with a history as rich and diverse as its gastronomy. While Lambrusco, the fizzy red wine, might be its most famous export, Emilia Romagna offers a fascinating array of wines waiting to be discovered.
A Tale of Two Sides
Emilia Romagna stretches across the Italian peninsula, from the Adriatic coast to the Apennines mountains. This geographical diversity translates to a wide range of microclimates and soils, influencing the styles of wine produced.
The region is often considered in two parts:
- Emilia: The western side, home to cities like Parma and Modena, is known for its gently rolling hills and fertile plains. This is where you'll find the heartland of Lambrusco production.
- Romagna: The eastern side, bordering the Adriatic Sea, is characterized by a more rugged landscape and a maritime influence. This area is known for its Sangiovese-based reds and crisp, dry whites.
Grape Variety Gems
While Lambrusco dominates the popular imagination, Emilia Romagna boasts a diverse collection of grape varieties:
- Lambrusco: This family of grapes produces sparkling red wines, ranging from dry to sweet, with vibrant fruit and refreshing acidity.
- Sangiovese: The king of Italian red grapes, Sangiovese thrives in Romagna, producing structured wines with cherry fruit, earthy notes, and firm tannins.
- Albana: This ancient white grape is indigenous to Romagna and produces aromatic wines with notes of apricot, honey, and almond.
- Trebbiano Romagnolo: This widely planted white grape yields crisp, dry wines with citrus and floral aromas.
- Malvasia: Used to make both dry and sweet wines, Malvasia offers aromatic complexity with notes of pear, citrus blossom, and spice.
Beyond the Bubbles
While Lambrusco is undoubtedly a regional icon, Emilia Romagna offers much more than just fizzy red wine.
- Sangiovese di Romagna DOC: Look for robust reds with cherry fruit and earthy complexity.
- Albana di Romagna DOCG: Discover aromatic white wines with aging potential.
- Colli Bolognesi DOC: Explore a range of white and red wines from the hills around Bologna.
A Gastronomic Paradise
No exploration of Emilia Romagna is complete without indulging in its culinary delights. The region's wines are the perfect complement to its rich cuisine, from cured meats and cheeses to handmade pasta and hearty stews.
