Is Lambrusco Like Prosecco?
Lambrusco and Prosecco are both beloved Italian sparkling wines, but are they similar? The short answer—no. They are actually quite different. If you’ve ever wondered whether you can swap one for the other, let’s break it down.
Lambrusco vs. Prosecco: The Key Differences
While both wines bring effervescence to the glass, they come from different regions, grapes, and styles:
- Origin: Lambrusco hails from Emilia-Romagna and parts of Lombardy, while Prosecco is from Veneto and Friuli-Venezia Giulia.
- Grapes: Lambrusco is made from Lambrusco grapes, a family of ancient red grape varieties, whereas Prosecco is made from Glera grapes.
- Color & Style: Lambrusco is a red (or rosé) sparkling wine, often semi-sweet or dry. Prosecco, on the other hand, is a white sparkling wine and typically on the dry side.
- Fizz Factor: Lambrusco can range from lightly sparkling (frizzante) to fully sparkling (spumante), while Prosecco is almost always spumante with higher carbonation.
Do They Taste Similar?
Not exactly! Lambrusco is often fruit-forward, with notes of berries, cherries, and sometimes even a touch of earthiness. It’s more structured and pairs exceptionally well with rich, savory foods (hello, charcuterie!).
Prosecco, on the other hand, is crisp, floral, and citrusy, with flavors of green apple, pear, and honeysuckle. It’s lighter and refreshing, making it a go-to for brunches and aperitifs.
Can You Substitute One for the Other?
It depends! If you’re looking for a refreshing sparkling wine, Prosecco is the way to go. If you want a red sparkling wine with a little more complexity, Lambrusco is your best bet. Both are fantastic, but they shine in different settings.
Final Thoughts
While Lambrusco and Prosecco share a love for bubbles, they are quite different in flavour, colour, and food pairings. If you love sparkling wines, why not enjoy both for different occasions?
RULES WE LIVE BY.
Great company, good food and a bottle of Tomato Wheels. Drink Lambrusco—if you know what’s good.