Table of Contents
What is Lambrusco Mantovano DOC?
Lambrusco Mantovano DOC is a lightly sparkling Italian red wine from Lombardy’s Mantua province. Crafted with a minimum of 85% local Lambrusco varieties such as Viadanese and Maestri, it offers a dry, mineral-driven profile, deep ruby hue, vibrant acidity, and a vivid expression of Po Valley terroir. Serve chilled at 10–12 °C alongside hearty Mantuan fare. avvinare.comItalian Wine CentralWine Tourism
History & Origins
Recognized as a DOC in 1987, Lambrusco Mantovano’s heritage traces back to Ancient Rome—Virgil himself remarked on local vines—and was nurtured through centuries by the Benedictine monks of San Benedetto Po’s Abbey of Polirone. Italian Wine CentralWikipediaWine Tourism
Where It’s Made: Geography & Terroir
Located in Lombardy’s fertile Po Valley, the DOC spans two subregions—Viadanese-Sabbionetano and Oltrepò Mantovano—shaped by alluvial soils and cooling river winds. Its terroir imparts minerality and clarity to this Lombardy wine. Wine Tourismvinerra.com
Grape Blend & DOC Rules
Wines must include ≥85% Lambrusco Viadanese (Grappello Ruberti), Maestri, Marani, or Salamino. Up to 15% may include Sorbara, Grasparossa, Ancellotta, or Fortana. avvinare.comice.itwineguide.wein.plus
Winemaking & Regulations
Produced in Rosso (red) and Rosato styles, always with effervescence (frizzante or spumante). Subzones must meet a minimum alcohol level of 11%. Wine TourismItalian Wine Centralwineguide.wein.plus
Key Facts at a Glance
| Feature | Details |
| DOC Since | 1987 Italian Wine Central |
| Region | Lombardy – Mantua province WikipediaWine Tourism |
| Vineyard Area | ~262 ha (2021) Italian Wine Central |
| Production | ~10,850 hl (~120,400 cases) Italian Wine Central |
| Grape Blend | ≥85% local Lambrusco varieties |
| Styles | Rosso / Rosato; Frizzante / Spumante |
| Terroir | Po Valley alluvial soils |
Tasting Notes: Italian Sparkling Wine Style
Deep ruby or garnet in color, with aromas of violet, cherry, and geranium. On the palate, expect dry, sapid, harmoniously textured notes with bright Italian sparkling wine acidity and elegant minerality. WikipediaFood & WineLa Cucina Italiana
Serving & Pairing (Mantua Wine Region Specialty)
Best served at 10–12 °C. Pairs beautifully with Mantuan specialties like tortelli di zucca, risotto alla pilota, cotechino, and local salumi. WikipediaLa Cucina ItalianaWikipedia
Comparison: Mantovano vs Other Lambruscos
| Lambrusco Aspect | Mantovano (Lombardy wine) | Lambrusco di Sorbara (Emilia-Romagna wine) | Lambrusco Grasparossa (Emilia-Romagna wine) |
| Region | Lombardy (Mantua) | Emilia-Romagna | Emilia-Romagna |
| Color | Deep ruby | Pale ruby | Deep ruby-purple |
| Body | Medium, mineral | Light, floral | Full, tannic |
WikipediaWine TourismLa Cucina Italianaavvinare.com
Best Vintages to Try
As a lively wine, it’s best enjoyed young—within 2–3 years—though some examples may age gracefully up to 5 years.
How to Store Lambrusco Mantovano
Store at 12–14 °C, away from light and vibrations. Once opened, reseal with a sparkling wine stopper and enjoy within 2–3 days.
Top Producers & Local Legends
- Villa Picta / Paolo: Small-scale producer emphasizing minimal intervention in the river valley. Grape Witches
- Decanter-recognized Virgili (“Inciostar” 2016): Award-winning vintage from the Mantova subregion. results.decanter.com
- Lebovitz Torre Vino Frizzante Rosso Secco: An accessible tribute to the Mantuan sparkling style. lebovitz.it
Include official Consorzio documentation and awards where possible (e.g., DWWA).
Lambrusco Tours & Local Experiences (Po Valley)
Enjoy immersive wine experiences in Mantua—including vineyard visits in Viadanese-Sabbionetano or Oltrepò Mantovano, and tastings paired with risottos and regional specialties. For city escapes, Mantua is a 1.5-hour train ride from Milan—perfect for field trips. Wine Tourismaustrianrails.com
FAQ
Q: Is Lambrusco Mantovano the same as other Lambruscos?
No—it’s unique to Lombardy and made with local grapes.
Q: How long does it last after opening?
Keep chilled, use a stopper, and drink within 2–3 days.
Q: What’s the difference between frizzante and spumante?
Frizzante is lightly fizzy; spumante is fully sparkling under pressure.Q: Can you age it?
Yes—best within 2–5 years.
Fun Facts & Cultural Notes
- Virgil celebrated Mantua’s wild vines nearly 2,000 years ago. Wine Tourismcrushedgrapechronicles.com
The wine is traditionally enjoyed mixed with marobini during colder seasons in local dialect traditions. Wikipedia
Where to Buy & Pricing
- Villa Picta (Paolo): artisanal small-production bottle – likely €15–20
- Lebovitz Torre Vino: approachable DOC frizzante – around €10
- Decanter Virgili Inciostar: premium–priced collector’s wine (award-winning)
Have fun to learn more about Italian Wines and Spirits! Explore also the non-alcoholic beverages
Send us an email if you want to suggest edits, or if you are looking for more info, at
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If you are in the mood for a good book, you can try:
– The Modern History of Italian Wine by Walter Filipputti
– Hidden Gems of Italy: An Insider’s Secret Formula To Find Top-Class Italian Wines At Value Prices And Taste La Dolce Vita by Tony Margiotta
Additionally, you can discover the other wines from Lombardy.
