Mantovano Wine Region

Lambrusco Mantovano DOC is the acclaimed sub-region of Lombardy known for its array of wines respected throughout the world for their high quality and traditional varieties. As you embark on your travels through the wine region of Lombardy, we hope you will enjoy discovering these classic wines. Lambrusco Mantovano’s sophistication and reach are due in large part to the grape varietals, the climate, and the attention from the winemakers of the area. These elements provide a style of wine found nowhere else in Italy, or the world for that matter. We invite you to dive into the distinctive wines that make Lambrusco Mantovano a favourite for wine drinkers worldwide.

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Where is the Lambrusco Mantovano Wine Region?

Lambrusco Mantovano DOC is an area in the northern Italian province of Lombardy, producing red and rosé wines. It is divided into two subzones: Viadanese-Sabbionetano (between the Oglio and Po rivers) and Oltrepo Mantovano.

Unique terroir of Lambrusco Mantovano appellation

The outstanding terroir of Lambrusco Mantovano is found in the Flatlands of the River Po, which are known for having the oldest viticultural traditions in the Mediterranean area. This is the unquestionable home of the traditional wine, Lambrusco Mantovano. Full-bodied and real, with a powerful aroma reminiscent of grapes produced in the rich clay soil of the lush territory recovered from the marshlands surrounding the Riverbed. 

Lambrusco Mantovano DOC is divided into two sub-regions that replicate the geographical and administrative borders. The Po River bends north near Viadana and runs for about 15 kilometres before turning east again. This part of Po rover stands for the vineyards of Viadanese-Sabbionetano to the west and Oltrepo Mantovano part to the east. 

The divide into two subzones is significant not only in terms of geography, but also in terms of winemaking. The autochthonous Lambrusco Viadanese variety, which originated in the same location, is grown in Viadanese-Sabbionetano. The indigenous Grappello Ruberti is distinctive in Oltrepo Mantovano.

Grappello Ruberti was long thought to be a biotype of Lambrusco Viadanese, but genetic and ampelographic investigations have shown that it is a distinct variety. Grappello Ruberti has been formally recognized in the National Register of Wine Varieties since 2013, yet under the DOC rules it is still listed as a synonym for Lambrusco Viadanese. 

History of Lambrusco Mantovano wine region

Lambrusco Mantovano DOC is a gem of northern Italy and the keeper of historic winemaking traditions. Mantuan wine quality is tied to thousands of years of tradition. To summarize, the Roman poet Publius Virgil Maro, who was born in Mantua, wrote about the wild vitis labrusca nearly 2,000 years ago. The Abbey of San Benedetto in Polirone is named for one of the prominent patrons of local winemaking. This richest Benedictine monastery flourished for over eight centuries until 1797. Its monks transformed the flooded banks of the Po River into arable land. There have been wine cellars that have passed down to us since the XVI century and are conveniently positioned under the monastic dining room. Since 1987, the contemporary wine zone DOC Lambrusco Mantovano has formed.

What is Lambrusco Mantovano Wine?

The Lambrusco Mantovano DOC standards require that specific local grape varieties be used in the winemaking process. These are Lambrusco Viadanese, Grappello Ruberti, Lambrusco Maestri, Lambrusco Marani, and Lambrusco Salamino. They can be used alone or in a cuvée and should make up at least 85% of the wine. Minor varieties like Lambrusco di Sorbara, Lambrusco Grasparossa, Ancellotta, and Fortana can be added at up to 15%. Lambrusco Mantovano wine can be red or rose, but it should be sparkling in both cases. These wines are often made in dry form.  On the label, it can be mentioned a subzone - Viadanese Sabbionetano or Oltrepò Mantovano - as well as the crop's origin. Lambrusco Mantovano wines from the Viadanese area are full-bodied, with deep colour and lasting flavour, while the Lambrusco Oltrepò Mantovano is lighter and fruity with a typical dry finish. Thanks to their attractive acidity, both can make a great gastronomic pair.

Food to Pair with Lambrusco Mantovano wine

Robiola di Roccaverano 

Named after the town of Roccaverano, this fatty cheese is produced in Langhe, a hilly area to the south and east of the river Tanaro between the Piedmont provinces of Asti and Alessandria. Robiola di Roccaverano is a fresh or short-aged soft paste cheese made from goat and cow's milk. The origins of this creamy cheese can be traced back to the era of Celts who used to breed goats in the area. Today, this prized delicacy is celebrated with an annual festival of Fiera Carrettesca ai sapori della Robiola, held every June in Roccaverano. Robiola has a rich goaty aroma and strong, almost piquant flavour. It is typically served with fresh fruit, walnut or raisin bread, or simply some crusty sourdough bread slices. Pair it with fruity white wines.

Teppanyaki, Japanese grilled meat on a plate

Teppanyaki is a Japanese technique of grilling a variety of ingredients on an iron plate. Its name is derived from two words: teppan or an iron plate, and yaki, meaning grilled or broiled. Teppanyaki refers to a variety of dishes cooked in the aforementioned way.

Steaks, seafood, chopped vegetables, rice, and dough-based foods such as yakisoba fried noodles are some of the most popular types of teppanyaki. In Western restaurants, the iron plate is often placed in front of the customers so they can watch the chefs work. In traditional Japanese restaurants, each table will usually have an iron plate, so the food can stay warm as it continues to cook lightly. Although the history of teppanyaki is somewhat murky, some oral traditions trace it back to family dining in feudal Japan, when people would gather around the central fire and prepare simple grilled dishes.

Risotto al prezzemolo

Risotto al prezzemolo is a traditional Italian type of risotto that's especially popular in Lombardy. The risotto is typically made with a combination of risotto rice (preferably Arborio), onions, butter, parsley, white wine, stock, Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese, salt, and black pepper. The onions are sautéed in butter until soft, mixed with the rice, and covered with wine until it's absorbed. Stock is added to the pan gradually while the risotto is continuously stirred until creamy. The dish is seasoned with salt and pepper, removed from the heat, and then mixed with more butter, a generous amount of parsley, and grated cheese. The risotto is served immediately on warmed plates.

Places to visit in Lambrusco Mantovano

Mantova, historical city surrounded by three artificial lakes

Mantova city is impressed by its timeless beauty and very warm environment. As you gaze upon it from the edges of the lakes, it is a metropolis that stops you in your tracks. It leads to a scene that blends history, art, and nature and appears to be floating on the lake. Mantua is well-known for its significance in the history of opera, as well as its architectural treasures and relics, magnificent palaces, and medieval and Renaissance cityscape. Mantova, on the other hand, is not meant for a fast visit. This city was designated a UNESCO World Heritage Site together with the adjacent Sabbioneta, and the squares, narrow lanes, and cobblestones urge the visitor to stroll carefully from one historic building to another. Mantova is strongly intertwined with history, art, and culture, and it is surrounded by a rich natural environment. All of these one-of-a-kind and magical locations make Mantova a must-see destination.

The Bosco Fontana Biogenetic Nature Reserve 

The Bosco Fontana Biogenetic Nature Reserve is located in the town of Marmirolo, just outside of Mantua. Its 576 acres are all that remains of the old deciduous woods that formerly covered the Po River Valley. The forest is made up of numerous varieties of broad-leaved trees, including oaks and pins; there are many flowers and herbaceous species in the clearings; hygrophilous variations are also present (on the banks, on the surface, and underwater), as well as several types of mushrooms. Weasels, martens, skunks, black kites, birds of prey that enjoy rivers and fish, great spotted woodpeckers, wrynecks, and various amphibian ducks are among the local species. The picturesque Palazzina Gonzaga, located in the heart of the area, has operating headquarters, scientific and educational facilities, and a library.

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