Il Ligabue Lambrusco NV

Gualtieri's Il Ligabue Lambrusco is named for Ligabue — the beloved Emilian painter and outsider artist whose vivid, instinctive work captures the same earthy, exuberant spirit that defines Lambrusco itself. Made from Lambrusco Salamino grapes in Emilia-Romagna, this is the real Lambrusco: not the sweet, mass-produced version that defined the category for decades, but a dry, lively, deeply flavourful sparkling red that belongs on the table with food.

At 11% ABV it's light enough to drink through a meal without fatigue, with a fine, persistent mousse, aromas of dark cherry, violet, and a hint of earth, and a dry, refreshing finish with just enough tannin to cut through rich food. This is the wine Emilians drink with salumi, mortadella, and Parmigiano-Reggiano — and it's one of the most food-friendly bottles you can open. Serve lightly chilled.