Bargain Lambrusco

A lot of people probably equate Riunite with Lambrusco wine, simply because the company has sold so much of it since the 1950s. They bill themselves as "the world's #1 Lambrusco," and I have no problem with that pat on the back for good winemaking and great marketing. Today, they still use the great catchphrase, "Riunite on ice, still nice." I don't mind it chilled, but I'll skip the ice cube.

Riunite is produced in Italy's Emilia Romagna region, where a great portion of Lambrusco is made. The wine is imported in the US by Frederick Wildman and Sons of New York City. Alcohol is quite restrained, at a mere 8% abv, and the Sweet-O-Meter on the back label shows sweetness in the "high" range. It sells in most supermarkets for less than $10. 

This wine pours up delightfully frizzante. It has a deep purple color, and even the bubbles are purple. The nose is earthy and grapey. It's simple, but very pleasant. There are more complex Lambruscos, but finding a less expensive one will probably prove difficult. 

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