Lambrusco is the Ultimate Pizza Wine (but not only that)
There are few wines like Lambrusco: as convivial as they are enjoyable, and above all remarkably versatile at the table.
Among all possible pairings, the one with pizza is undoubtedly one of the most successful and exciting, whether gourmet or classic — Margherita, ham and mushrooms, Diavola, Capricciosa, and so on. In short, long-standing taboos surrounding Lambrusco pairings are finally being broken, as it proves to be an excellent all-rounder capable of pleasing everyone.
We experienced this firsthand during a dinner held in Turin at Fuzion pizzeria, as part of the “Lambrusco DOC a Spicchi” tour promoted by the Consorzio di Tutela Lambrusco DOC. At the oven, Domenico Volgare rose to the challenge, creating a gourmet tasting journey designed to highlight the freshness and crisp structure of Lambrusco.
The expressions presented by the producers outlined a multifaceted and creative image of the wine, perfectly suited not only to the flavors of traditional Emilian cuisine, but also to signature, contemporary pizzas.
From the “Pizza Fritta Fuzion”, topped with Vietnamese mortadella and Apulian stracciatella with a citrusy hint of lemongrass, to the “Pizza Himiko” — featuring peeled tomatoes, Japanese koji miso, buffalo mozzarella, Parmigiano Reggiano from Prati Stabili, and fresh basil — and on to two even more boldly flavored creations: the Amatriciana Fuzion, inspired by the classic pasta dish with guanciale seasoned with Norcia pepper, fresh spring onions, Pecorino Romano, and Korean gochugaru chili; and finally the “Snooky”, topped with fresh mushrooms, ‘d Muncalè sausage, Grana Padano flakes, homemade Japanese-style mayonnaise, and puffed sushi rice.
Emilia-Romagna meets Japan, with Lambrusco taking center stage in the glass. Among the wines tasted, those that stood out most for personality and according to our taste were Piria by Cantina Paltrinieri and La.Vie by the young Cantina Ventiventi, one of the region’s most promising emerging producers.
With a growing number of wineries run by younger generations, the image of both the wine and the territory has evolved. Today, Lambrusco is no longer viewed merely as a large-scale, high-yield wine. On the contrary, there is careful study of the various production areas; each winery produces multiple expressions of Lambrusco, with in-depth research into clones and the most suitable soils.
Binding all of this together is a single Consorzio di Tutela Lambrusco Doc, established in 2021 through the merger of several organizations. It jointly promotes the various appellations and coordinates communication strategies and international promotional projects, while still allowing individual DOCs full decision-making autonomy: Lambrusco di Sorbara DOC, Lambrusco Grasparossa di Castelvetro DOC, Lambrusco Salamino di Santa Croce DOC, Lambrusco di Modena DOC, Lambrusco Reggiano DOC, and Colli di Scandiano e di Canossa DOC.
Piria – Lambrusco di Sorbara DOC | Cantina Paltrinieri
Bright onion-skin pink in color. On the nose, it shows vibrant freshness with notes of wild strawberry and cherry, alongside citrus hints of citron. On the palate it is vertical and focused on the mid-palate, revealing outstanding versatility, depth, and drinkability.
Vigna del Cristo – Lambrusco di Sorbara DOC | Umberto Cavicchioli
A luminous, intense onion-skin pink. The nose offers aromas of small red berries, wildflowers, and spices, with lively freshness. The palate is rich and assertive, with well-balanced acidity and a persistent, full-bodied finish.
Rio – Lambrusco Grasparossa di Castelvetro DOC | Cantina di San Martino in Rio
Deep ruby red with a fine, lively mousse. The bouquet reveals ripe red fruit, sweet spices, and a hint of cocoa. On the palate it delivers full body, soft tannins, and intensity, with pleasing juiciness.
La.Vie – Lambrusco DOC Modena | Cantina Ventiventi
Pale powder-pink in color. The nose is sleek and elegant, with rich fruity notes. On the palate it is voluptuous and well-structured, gently astringent in just the right measure, offering good breadth, great fluidity, and harmony.
written by Erika Mantovan