Lambrusco is a unique and versatile wine that often sparks curiosity, especially when it comes to storage and serving practices. As a sparkling red wine originating from Italy, Lambrusco stands out among other wines because of its vibrant flavor profile and varying levels of sweetness. One of the most frequently asked questions by casual drinkers and wine enthusiasts alike is: do you refrigerate Lambrusco? The answer isn’t always straightforward, as it depends on whether the bottle is opened or unopened, and the type of Lambrusco you have on hand. Knowing how to properly store Lambrusco can enhance both its flavor and shelf life.
Understanding Lambrusco
A Brief Overview
Lambrusco is made from several grape varieties under the same name, most commonly grown in the Emilia-Romagna region of Northern Italy. It’s known for its effervescence, fruity notes, and slightly dry to sweet finish. Lambrusco can be red, rosé, or even white in some cases, and its character changes depending on the production method and grape blend used.
Types of Lambrusco
- Secco (Dry): Has less residual sugar and a more robust flavor.
- Amabile (Semi-Sweet): Balanced between sweet and dry, very approachable.
- Dolce (Sweet): Contains higher levels of sugar, often enjoyed as a dessert wine.
Knowing the type of Lambrusco you have helps determine the best way to store and serve it.
Should You Refrigerate Lambrusco?
Before Opening the Bottle
Unopened bottles of Lambrusco should generally be stored in a cool, dark place away from direct sunlight and temperature fluctuations. A wine rack, cellar, or pantry works well if the room stays consistently cool ideally around 55°F (13°C). Lambrusco doesn’t necessarily need refrigeration before opening, unless you plan to drink it soon and prefer it chilled.
Chilling Before Serving
Yes, Lambrusco should be chilled before serving. Unlike many red wines, Lambrusco is best enjoyed cold or lightly chilled. Serving it at around 50°F to 55°F (10°C to 13°C) enhances its refreshing qualities and balances its sweetness and acidity. Placing it in the fridge for about 90 minutes prior to serving or in an ice bucket for 30 minutes is a good approach.
After Opening the Bottle
Once opened, Lambrusco should be refrigerated. Like all sparkling wines, it begins to lose its fizz after opening. Refrigeration helps preserve the bubbles and flavor for as long as possible. It’s best to consume an opened bottle within 1 to 3 days. Using a wine stopper specifically made for sparkling wines can help maintain the carbonation longer.
Tips for Refrigerating Lambrusco
Use the Right Temperature
Too cold and Lambrusco may lose some of its nuanced aromas. Too warm and it can become flat and less refreshing. Set your refrigerator to a temperature between 45°F and 55°F (7°C to 13°C) when storing the bottle short-term.
Storage Position Matters
If your Lambrusco bottle has a cork, lay it on its side in the fridge. This keeps the cork moist and helps prevent air from entering the bottle. If it’s a screw cap, the position doesn’t matter as much, but keeping it upright saves space and makes it easier to reseal.
What Happens If You Don’t Refrigerate Lambrusco?
Before Opening
Leaving unopened Lambrusco in warm environments for extended periods may cause it to age prematurely. The wine could lose its sparkle or develop undesirable flavors. For long-term storage, refrigeration is not required, but consistent cool temperatures are essential.
After Opening
If you don’t refrigerate Lambrusco after opening, it will go flat quickly, and the taste will degrade. The sweet and fruity notes may turn sour, and you risk oxidation, which leads to a vinegary taste. The sparkle a signature of Lambrusco will also disappear without cold preservation.
Serving Lambrusco the Right Way
Proper Glassware
Though many serve Lambrusco in standard wine glasses, the best experience comes from using flutes or tulip-shaped glasses. These help preserve the bubbles and concentrate the aroma at the rim of the glass.
Pairing with Food
Lambrusco pairs wonderfully with a variety of dishes. Here are some favorites:
- Cured Meats: Prosciutto, salami, and mortadella complement the wine’s fruity acidity.
- Cheeses: Try Parmigiano-Reggiano or Gorgonzola for a balance of sharpness and creaminess.
- Pasta and Pizza: Tomato-based sauces and wood-fired pizzas are excellent companions.
- Desserts: For sweeter Lambrusco, consider pairing with chocolate cake or berry tarts.
Storing Leftover Lambrusco
Preserving Bubbles
To keep Lambrusco fizzy after opening, use a sparkling wine stopper with a tight seal. Avoid using plastic wrap or corks not designed for carbonated beverages, as they will not maintain pressure inside the bottle.
How Long Will It Last in the Fridge?
After opening, Lambrusco will typically stay good in the fridge for up to 3 days. After that, it may still be drinkable, but the quality especially the fizz and freshness will diminish. If the wine starts to taste flat or sour, it’s time to let it go.
Other Storage Alternatives
Wine Coolers
If you have a wine cooler, that’s an excellent place to store both unopened and opened bottles of Lambrusco. You can control the temperature more precisely than in a regular refrigerator and keep your wines at optimal conditions.
Mini Fridges
For those who drink Lambrusco often, dedicating a small mini fridge for wines and other beverages can make chilling more convenient and consistent.
So, do you refrigerate Lambrusco? The answer is yes especially after opening and before serving. While unopened bottles don’t require refrigeration, chilling the wine before enjoying it brings out its best characteristics. Once opened, keeping Lambrusco in the fridge is essential for preserving its flavor and sparkle. Whether you prefer it dry or sweet, red or rosé, Lambrusco offers a refreshing, food-friendly option that’s even better when properly stored. Understanding how to refrigerate and serve it will help you enjoy this charming Italian wine to the fullest.