Emilia-Romagna

• Lambrusco: dry, lively sparkling reds crafted from a family of native grapes; flavors range from tart red berries and violets to earthy undertones, with crisp acidity and a refreshing finish.
• Sangiovese di Romagna: robust and structured reds showing bright sour cherry, plum, and floral notes; marked by firm tannins and vibrant acidity, ideal for pairing with rich local cuisine.
• Albana di Romagna: expressive whites from the historic Albana grape; can be dry, off-dry, or sweet, offering notes of apricot, almond, and delicate florals with textured minerality.
• Pignoletto: zesty and aromatic whites, both still and sparkling, showcasing fresh citrus, green apple, and subtle herbal qualities; especially vibrant around the Colli Bolognesi hills.
• Trebbiano: light, crisp whites with gentle floral aromas and soft orchard fruit, prized for their refreshing character and versatility at the table.

Emilia-Romagna's diverse terroir and climate significantly influence its distinctive wines. The region enjoys a mild climate characterized by warm summers and chilly winters, ideal for viticulture. The Apennine Mountains to the south provide a natural barrier, creating stable temperatures and ample rainfall, while the Adriatic Sea contributes essential humidity for grape maturation. The soils vary widely across Emilia-Romagna, ranging from nutrient-rich alluvial plains in the north to clay and sandy compositions in the hills. This geological variety supports a broad spectrum of grape varieties, allowing for the production of both lively reds and flavorful whites. The interplay of climate and soil here imparts a refreshing acidity and depth of flavor that define the region's wines.

In Emilia-Romagna, a resurgence of quality-focused winemaking is turning heads, spotlighting the region's traditional varietals with fresh interpretations.

• Paltrinieri: Innovators from the Sorbara DOC, crafting refined Lambrusco di Sorbara with techniques ranging from tank fermentation to the traditional Metodo Ancestrale.
• Cleto Chiarli: Emilia-Romagna's oldest winery, renowned for elevating Lambrusco with artisanal quality, including their celebrated Lambrusco del Fondatore.
• Medici Ermete: Pioneers in Lambrusco Reggiano, their single-vineyard Concerto Lambrusco Salamino is celebrated for its world-class stature.
• Fattoria Moretto: Organic producers in Castelvetro, gaining acclaim for their bone-dry Lambrusco Grasparossa with a focus on terroir-driven expression.
• Fattoria Zerbina: Cristina Geminiani's powerhouse estate, redefining Albana di Romagna and Sangiovese through innovative viticulture.
• Tre Monti: Leaders in Imola hills, noted for clay-aged Albana and unique Sangiovese Riservas that highlight their distinctive terroir.
• Umberto Cesari: Known for sustainability and robust Sangiovese, their wines have earned international recognition.
• La Stoppa: Iconic in natural wine, embracing organic practices with local varietals, offering wines of profound character and place.
• Podere Pradarolo: Champions of organic and biodynamic methods, specializing in long-maceration orange wines and sulfite-free sparklers.

Emilia-Romagna's wine industry is deeply committed to sustainability, integrating eco-friendly practices across its vineyards. This dedication is not just about individual efforts but is reflected in regional initiatives that promote environmental stewardship. The region has seen a rise in organic and biodynamic wine growing, anchored by the Consorzio Vini di Romagna, which is developing a regional sustainability certification. This holistic approach considers environmental, social, and economic aspects, ensuring that vineyards are treated as interconnected ecosystems. The Sistema di Qualità Nazionale di Produzione Integrata (SQNPI) offers certification for integrated pest management, aiming to reduce synthetic chemical use, highlighting Emilia-Romagna's progressive stance on sustainable viticulture. The region's winemakers are also embracing innovation to minimize their environmental impact. From non-invasive viticultural techniques to recyclable packaging, they are finding creative solutions to traditional challenges. This commitment to sustainability is further exemplified by the Caviro cooperative's "circle of the vine" model, transforming winemaking waste into valuable products and energy. These combined efforts showcase Emilia-Romagna as a leader in sustainable wine production, offering a diverse range of wines that reflect both the region's rich heritage and its forward-thinking ethos.

Emilia-Romagna is a treasure trove for wine tourism, where the experience extends beyond vineyard tours to a rich tapestry of culinary and cultural exploration. Wine routes like the Strade dei Vini e dei Sapori interweave wineries with local food producers, offering a holistic journey through the region's gastronomic heart. These thoughtfully designed paths highlight the interplay of wines like Lambrusco and Sangiovese with esteemed delicacies such as Parma Ham and traditional pasta. Visitors can explore these connections year-round, with events like the Sagra dell'Uva e del Lambrusco Grasparossa and the Festival del Prosciutto di Parma, which celebrate the harvest and craftsmanship behind these iconic products. The region's commitment to both tradition and innovation is evident in its wine offerings, where you can find everything from sparkling Lambrusco to robust Sangiovese di Romagna. Hands-on experiences, such as cooking classes at agriturismi or tastings at the Enoteca Regionale Emilia Romagna, immerse visitors in the local culture. These activities provide insight into the terroir-driven expressions of Emilia-Romagna's wines, shaped by its varied soils and climate. Such experiences not only educate but also underscore the region's dedication to sustainable practices, ensuring that the rich flavors of Emilia-Romagna continue to thrive for future generations.