2017 Cantina della Volta - Lambrusco Christian Bellei Brut (750ml)

Cantina della Volta was founded in 1920 by Christian Bellei's grandfather in the town of Bomporto, near Modena. Christian's father later sent him to train in Reims, immersing him in the traditions of Champagne winemaking, and in 2010 Christian returned home to revive his grandfather's dormant winery alongside partners Angela Sini and Giorgio Angiolini. Working almost exclusively with Lambrusco di Sorbara, the palest and highest-acid strain in the Lambrusco family, Christian set out to show that this often-overlooked grape could produce a serious metodo classico sparkling wine, one now found on the lists of Michelin-starred restaurants around the world.

The grapes for this cuvée are hand harvested starting in late September from vineyards farmed by families who have worked with the Belleis for generations. After gentle pressing and clarification, the wine ferments in temperature-controlled steel tanks, then undergoes a natural secondary fermentation in bottle following the classic method. It rests on its lees for a bit over three years at a constant 12°C before disgorgement and a light dosage.

The wine pours a pale straw yellow with greenish highlights and fine, persistent bubbles. Citrus and floral aromas lead into a soft, velvety palate with real precision, finishing clean and fresh. It's a natural match for a proper aperitivo, fried seafood, cured meats, or simply grilled fish.