Italian red wines that are sweet come in various styles and are produced in different regions of the country. While Lambrusco and Brachetto are well-known for their sweet characteristics, there are other indigenous red grape varieties that produce delightful sweet wines.
In Lombardy, for example, you can find sweet red wines made from grape varieties such as Bonarda, Teroldego, and Croatina. These wines are typically produced in a frizzante dolce style, meaning they have a light effervescence and a sweet taste.
Bonarda is a grape variety that is also grown in Argentina, but in Lombardy, it produces a deliciously sweet and fruity red wine. It often exhibits flavors of ripe berries, plums, and cherries, with a touch of sweetness that balances the acidity. This wine is perfect for those who enjoy a slightly fizzy, sweet red wine with a fruity profile.
Teroldego is another red grape variety that is indigenous to the Trentino-Alto Adige region in northern Italy. While it is more commonly known for its dry and full-bodied wines, some producers also make sweet versions of Teroldego. These wines have a rich and intense flavor profile, with notes of dark fruits, spices, and a hint of sweetness that adds depth to the wine.
Croatina, also known as Bonarda di Gattinara, is a grape variety primarily grown in Piedmont and Lombardy. It is used to produce both dry and sweet red wines. The sweet versions of Croatina are characterized by their vibrant red color, aromatic nose, and a luscious sweetness on the palate. They often have flavors of blackberries, plums, and hints of spices.
These sweet red wines from Lombardy showcase the diversity of Italian viticulture and offer a unique alternative to the more well-known sweet red wines like Lambrusco and Brachetto. They are perfect for those who enjoy a sweeter style of wine and can be enjoyed on their own or paired with desserts and cheeses.
As a sommelier and brewer, I have had the opportunity to taste and explore various sweet red wines from Italy. One memorable experience was trying a sweet Bonarda from Lombardy with a slice of dark chocolate cake. The combination of the fruity sweetness of the wine and the rich chocolate flavors was simply sublime. It was a delightful pairing that highlighted the unique qualities of the wine and enhanced the overall tasting experience.
While Lambrusco and Brachetto are well-known sweet red wines from Italy, there are other indigenous grape varieties that produce equally delicious sweet red wines. Bonarda, Teroldego, and Croatina from Lombardy are excellent examples of these wines, offering a frizzante dolce style with fruity flavors and a touch of sweetness. They provide a unique and enjoyable alternative for those seeking sweet red wines with a distinct Italian character.