Sorbara and the food valley
We start our tour from Sorbara, where one of the most well-liked Lambrusco representatives, the king of the region, was born, Lambrusco di Sorbara Doc. We are in the heart of Emilia, in the Modenese plain at the foot of the Apennines. It is here that a noble expression of Lambrusco originates from millerandage, an anomaly in the flowering of the bunch that contributes to a higher aromatic concentration of the grapes. Elegant and fresh on the palate, with a fine and persistent foam, Lambrusco di Sorbara Doc releases hints of violet in the glass. A wine already appreciated in Roman times, but extremely modern in taste, both sparkling and still. The ideal pairing is with the typical Emilian cold cuts. You can't miss out on a visit to Parma, with the magical atmosphere of Piazza del Duomo and the historic centre, as well as the Food Museums just outside the city, to appreciate the history and traditions of Parmigiano Reggiano, Parma Ham and the other typical brands, which give credence to the food and wine appeal of the Food Valley.
Castelvetro di Modena: the other face of Lambrusco
The itinerary through the wine territories of Emilia Romagna continues towards Modena, among the gentle hills of Castelvetro di Modena, a village with a mediaeval soul famous for the characteristic checkerboard flooring of Piazza Roma and for Lambrusco di Grasparossa Doc. Named for the intense red colour of the leaves of the vines that dye the landscapes in the autumn season, this wine has an intense violet reflection in the glass. As for taste, it gives off hints of almond and shows a greater structure and tannin than Sorbara's cousin. A few kilometres away, we recommend a visit to the Museum of Traditional Balsamic Vinegar of Modena, to retrace centuries of history, traditions and customs of this precious nectar.
Bologna and its hills
Between one taste and another, our journey continues to Bologna to discover the Doc Colli Bolognesi. The designation, in red and white, includes numerous vines, including native and international. But the real protagonist is Pignoletto, a historic vine already recognised by Plinio il Vecchio for its aroma, which is best both in the classic sparkling version and in the still one. A visit to discover Bologna is not to be missed, with its intense cultural heritage and the rich wine and food traditions. From the porticoes of San Luca to the Two Towers, passing through Piazza Maggiore and the jazz street, a unique opportunity to discover the wonders of the Bolognese city.
Romagna: from Forlì to Ravenna
In the last stage of the wine tour, we head off to discover the beating heart of Romagna. Here begins the history of Romagna Albana DOCG, a name known both in the sweet and raisin varieties, capable of winning over the palate even in the dry version, fresher and with a floral bouquet. A wine as warm and enveloping as its homeland. Romagna is a territory of a thousand shades, among the Byzantine mosaics of Ravenna, the combination of Renaissance style and rationalist architecture of the historic centre of Forlì, a dip in the Adriatic in Rimini and Riccione and a walk through the picturesque canals of Cervia.
The tour through the flavours of the region can only end with a taste of the iconic piada. Queen of the Romagna tables, it is a true symbol of Romagna cuisine, to be tasted in all its forms, thinner in Rimini, thicker inland and in all its delicious filling.
To discover the wine cellars of the Movimento Turismo del Vino Emilia Romagna go to