Lambrusco di Sorbara is one of the historic grape varieties of the Modena plain, probably developed in the area of Sorbara, a hamlet of Bomporto, and documented with certainty since at least the nineteenth century. Its cultivation is concentrated in the province of Modena, particularly in the alluvial plain between the Secchia and Panaro rivers, in the areas of Bomporto, Bastiglia, Nonantola, Ravarino, San Prospero and parts of neighbouring municipalities.
It is a vigorous vine with a semi-upright growth habit, featuring medium-sized leaves that are generally round or pentagonal in shape and three-lobed. The bunch is medium-sized, elongated, pyramidal, often featuring a wing and characteristically loose. The berry, medium-sized and sub-round, has a thick, firm and very pruinose skin, which is blue-black in colour. A particularly significant ampelographic feature concerns the physiologically female flowers, which produce sterile pollen: this phenomenon promotes berry set and traditionally makes the presence of other Lambrusco varieties, particularly Salamino, essential for pollination.
The wine is distinguished by its pale ruby-red colour, often verging on rosé, and by a fragrant, floral and fruity profile, with hints of violet, small red berries and cherry. On the palate, it is fresh, savoury, light and harmonious, with a generally delicate structure underpinned by lively acidity. The sparkling versions best express the wine’s fragrance and immediacy; those refermented in the bottle can develop greater complexity and age well over the medium term.
