Camillo Donati, Lambrusco Rosso

The Donati family founded the estate in 1930. It is situated at Barbiano, less than 15 miles from Parma in the Emilio-Romagna region of northern Italy and is run strictly along biodynamic lines by 3rd Generation wine maker, Camillo Donati, who cultivates 11ha of vines (4 of which are leased) at an altitude of 250 meteres above sea level. This particular frizzante is from the high-yielding Lambrusco Maestri grape which is kept in check by severe pruning leading to much lower yields. Weighing in at a reasonable 12% alcohol, this is a traditional, unfiltered, bottle-fermented Lambrusco that is bone-dry and gently sparkling. The pronounced acidity makes it a particularly good barbecue wine as it is well able to cut through fatty meats and rich sauces.

An inky-purple in colour. Scents of dark plums, raisins and black cherry with some earthy notes. On the palate, dry and intensely fruity with a racy acidity and pleasantly bitter peachiness. Vibrant acidity and background tannin lead to a clean finish. Great with spicy red beans and rice with Andouille sausage, wild mushroom risotto with chanterelles and gorgonzola cheese, or Kung Pao chicken with red chillies and water chestnuts.