La Battagliola, Lambrusco Grasparosso, 2024

Lambrusco still fights an outdated image—but La Battagliola is one of the producers changing minds, one bottle at a time. Based in Castelvetro, the heart of Lambrusco Grasparossa, they focus exclusively on this deeply pigmented, high-acid variety known for producing the boldest, most structured of the Lambrusco styles.

The 2024 vintage is dry and snappy, with vivid blackberry fruit, crushed violets, and a touch of earthy spice. The bubbles are fine and lively, giving the wine lift, while the tannins—yes, real tannins—bring a food-loving grip that makes it feel more like a chilled red than a picnic spritz.

Forget sweet and syrupy—this is Lambrusco for the modern table: clean, intense, and unmistakably serious. It’s fantastic with all the hits (prosciutto, mortadella, aged Parm) but equally at home with burgers, pizza, or Korean BBQ.

Serve cold, pour boldly, and don’t be surprised if it disappears fast.