Lambrusco Deserves a Comeback (Especially in the Heat)
The fizzy, flirty red wine that stole my heart one hot summer day…
Universe, be so serious—just teleport me to Rezdôra, hand me a bowl of pasta, and keep the Lambrusco flowing.
I still remember the first time I fell in love with Lambrusco. It was one of those sticky summer days in NYC—too hot for red wine, but not in the mood for a rosé either. We were having lunch at Rezdôra in Flatiron (if you know, you know), and Logan—my fiancé, who claims to know a thing or two about wine—suggested we try a glass of Lambrusco. I had no idea what I was getting into… but all kidding aside, I (mostly) trust his palate. One sip later, I was hooked. Fizzy, fruity, and ice-cold—total summer in a glass.
Bubbly. Fruity. Ice-cold. Total main character energy in a glass.
And yet, most people still sleep on it. So let’s change that, shall we?
What Is Lambrusco?
Lambrusco is a sparkling red wine from Emilia-Romagna in northern Italy—aka land of prosciutto, parmigiano, and pasta dreams. Unlike heavy reds, Lambrusco is light, slightly fizzy, and usually served chilled. Some bottles are dry and sophisticated, others are juicy and a little sweet—but all are perfect for sipping when it’s too hot to think.
Why You Should Be Drinking It (Especially in the Tropics)
🍷 It’s Red, But Refreshing
Hot weather makes most red wines feel like a bad decision. Lambrusco? Total exception. Its gentle bubbles and chillable style make it as refreshing as a white or rosé, but with that satisfying red fruit depth.
🍉 It Pairs With Everything
Pizza night? Grilled meats? Sushi? Tropical charcuterie board? Lambrusco understands the assignment. Its versatility makes it your go-to for casual dinners, beach days, or your next girls’ night on the balcony.
🌞 Hot Weather MVP
In places like Puerto Rico, where it’s summer 365 days a year, Lambrusco feels like a small act of rebellion against boring wine routines. It’s festive, unfussy, and cooling. Serve it with a slight chill and thank me later.
✨ It’s a Vibe
Let’s be honest—Lambrusco is fun. It's not trying to be too serious. It’s the kind of wine that makes you want to throw on a linen set, blast Italian disco, and host a lazy Sunday lunch that turns into dinner.
So… Why Don’t More People Drink It?
Somewhere along the way, Lambrusco got a bad rap thanks to overly sweet, low-quality versions. But trust—there’s a whole world of good Lambruscos out there waiting to be rediscovered. Look for bottles labeled secco (dry) or semi-seccoif you prefer something not too sweet. And ask your local wine shop for recommendations—they usually get weirdly excited when someone asks for a good Lambrusco.
The Verdict?
Lambrusco is the low-effort, high-vibe wine we should all be drinking more of—especially when the forecast says humid with a chance of frizz.
So next time you're reaching for rosé or pouring yet another white, give Lambrusco a swirl. It just might become your new warm-weather fling.
🍾 Where to Start: Easy-to-Find Lambruscos
If you’re new to the Lambrusco world, here are a few bottles to look out for:
Cleto Chiarli “Vecchia Modena” – crisp, dry, and very food-friendly
Medici Ermete “Concerto” – a classic, juicy but balanced
Lini 910 Lambrusco Rosso – elegant, a little earthy, with just the right fizz
Riunite (yes, really) – for a nostalgic, slightly sweeter intro
Bonus: most are under $20. Chic without the splurge.
And for my Puerto Rico crew — Lambrusco might feel elusive on the island (crazy, I know), but there is one bottle you can snag right now: Il Folicello “Il Rosso” Lambrusco — a dry, organic Lambrusco Grasparossa from Emilia‑Romagna, Italy.
It pairs shockingly well with fried chicken sandwiches, smash burgers, and wings. Trust—Lambrusco knows how to hang at the flavor-packed, finger-licking table.
You can find it at La Penúltima in Santurce—so if you're on the island, pop in for a glass and thank me later. Yummy approved 🍷🍔🍗
Ready to make Lambrusco your island wine of choice?
Throw it in the fridge. Pour it in a cute glass. Sip it under the sun.
And welcome to the fizzy side 🍷🌴
