Do you remember your very first wine experience? Mine was Riunite Lambrusco. I was in my mid-twenties, single and dating a guy who seemed very worldly. He’d taken me out to an Italian restaurant and ordered Riunite Lambrusco. With much flair, the waiter played the part with the uncorking of the bottle. He presented the cork to my date and then gave him a small sip of the wine. My date nodded his approval. I was so impressed. The waiter then proceeded to fill our wine glasses. It was my first sip of wine and I loved it, all of it.
Even though my wine palate has grown, every time I see this wine it brings back so many memories, it makes me smile.
Riunite Lambrusco Emilia
Riunite Lambrusco was the best-loved and best-selling Italian Red Wine in America for over 4 decades. It’s still one of the leading producers of classic wines from Emilia-Romagna Region in Central Italy. This area is also known for their Prosciutto di Parma, Parmigiano Reggiano, not to mention their spectacular balsamic vinegar.
Riunite has a rich history of Italian winemaking. Established in the 1950’s and up the 1990’s they have been instrumental in introducing this imminently drinkable wine to the first-time wine drinker. Rightly so, they are closely identified with the Lambrusco grape, a native wine grape varietal in central Italy. It is believed that the Lambrusco wine grapes are one of the oldest grapes in history. Dating back before the first century BC, the Etruscans were the first to convert and ferment wine juice into wine. When you drink a glass of Riunite, you are truly drinking a bit of history.
This is what the winemaker has to say about their Riunite Lambrusco Emilia:
“The pressing and brief maceration of select grapes are followed by the fermentation of the must at controlled temperature. A second fermentation, using the Charmat method, imparts the characteristic sparkling note. Lively red with violet reflections. Bouquet: Fruity, soft and harmonious. Taste: Light, well-balanced. Riunite Lambrusco is perfect for every occasion. Enjoyable and straightforward, its easy drinkability makes it a favorite with a wide variety of foods, including spicy fare.”
You can find this wine just about anywhere. Try your local market, wine purveyor, at most wine stores or wine.com, bevmo.com and totalwine.com. It’s a fun sociable wine for any occasion.
When I first asked my wine buyer about this wine he laughed and asked why I was looking for it. When I told him the story he smiled really big and took me right to it. We chatted about its place in the wine world and how it truly is a very easy drinking wine, especially for a novice wine palate. One thing is certain, you can’t beat the price. Whenever you find yourself looking for an inexpensive fun wine with a touch of effervescence, then give Riunite Lambrusco Emilia a try.
Time for a glass…
If you enjoyed reading about “Riunite Lambrusco Emilia,” check out these other fun and inexpensive wines; Ménage à Trois Red Wine, Cupcake Cabernet Sauvignon, and Barefoot Wines and Bubbly.
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