Trebbiano, Lambrusco, Ancellotta:Why the Wines of Mantova Deserve Your Glass.
At Eataly Los Angeles, guests gathered for the class “From Colli Morenici to Lambrusco Mantovano: Excellence and Authenticity of the Mantova Lands,” led by Italian wine experts Diego Meraviglia and Alessandra Bergamini.
The tasting unfolded like a journey through Lombardy — from the breezy hills of Lake Garda to the fertile plains of the Po River. Each glass offered a window into Mantua’s personality: structured whites, soulful reds, and sparkling Lambruscos that hum with life.
The class was equal parts education and joy — the kind that reminds you wine isn’t just about grapes and soil, but about the people, stories, and dishes it brings together.
A Taste of Mantua: Where Lake and Land Shape the Glass
The wines of Mantova express two different worlds. In the north, the Garda Colli Mantovani vineyards rest on stony moraine hills shaped by ancient glaciers. They yield crisp, mineral whites that mirror the sunlight over Lake Garda.
To the south, the Po River plains stretch flat and fertile — home to the beloved Lambrusco Mantovano, vibrant and unpretentious.
Mantua’s wines reflect its dual nature: elegance and energy, finesse and fun. Or, as presenter Diego Meraviglia put it with a grin between pours, “This is the taste of where Lombardy relaxes.”
The Wines of Mantova: Flavor Profiles and Pairings
Pjafòc White, Spumante Extra Dry Garda D.O.C. 2024 — Cantine Virgili
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Flavor Profile: Pale yellow sparkle with notes of white flowers, pear, and citrus. Lively acidity balanced by a soft fruit core.
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Food Pairing: Aperitif perfection. Try it with oysters, sushi, or a citrus-dressed salad.
La Casina Bianco, Garda Colli Mantovani D.O.C. 2024 — Cantina Ricchi
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Flavor Profile: Crisp and mineral with apple, peach, and lemon zest. Elegant and bright.
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Food Pairing: Ideal with grilled branzino, white meat, or lemon risotto.
Meridiano, Garda D.O.C. 2024 — Cantina Ricchi
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Flavor Profile: 100% Chardonnay aged briefly in oak. Notes of pineapple, banana, and honey. Full, round finish.
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Food Pairing: Pumpkin tortelli (Mantua’s favorite), lobster risotto, or roasted chicken.
Chiaretto, Garda Colli Mantovani D.O.C. 2024 — Cantina Cattani
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Flavor Profile: 100% Merlot, rosé with almond and peach blossom aromas. Lean and crisp with a raspberry finish.
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Food Pairing: Vegetable risotto, prosciutto with melon, or caprese salad.
Pjafòc Lambrusco, Provincia di Mantova I.G.T. 2024 — Cantine Virgili
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Flavor Profile: Ruby red sparkle, violet and cherry on the nose, fruity yet dry.
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Food Pairing: Excellent with pizza, cured meats, and Parmigiano Reggiano.
Inciostar Lambrusco, Provincia di Mantova I.G.T. 2024 — Cantine Virgili
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Flavor Profile: Deep ruby with violet and red berry aromas. Juicy and smooth.
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Food Pairing: Spaghetti with ragù, charcuterie, or roasted pork.
Ancellotta, Provincia di Mantova I.G.T. 2024 — Cantine Virgili
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Flavor Profile: Dark, full-bodied red with black cherry, balsamic spice, and plum. Long, savory finish.
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Food Pairing: Braised beef, truffle pasta, or aged cheeses.
Ribò, Garda D.O.C. 2022 — Cantina Ricchi
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Flavor Profile: Cabernet Franc and Sauvignon blend. Black pepper, bell pepper, and forest berries. Rich yet balanced.
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Food Pairing: Grilled steak, wild boar ragù, or casseroles.
History and Flavor: Mantua’s Story in Every Glass
Mantua’s wines are deeply tied to its Renaissance past. The noble Isabella d’Este, Marchioness of Mantua, once wrote in 1535:
Centuries later, that elegance still defines the region. From the northern moraine hills to the southern floodplains, Mantua’s winemakers remain faithful to their land — clay, gravel, and a little bit of magic.
Whether you’re sipping Lambrusco at a Milan trattoria or Chardonnay in Beverly Hills, you’re tasting that same history — reframed for a modern table.
FAQ About the Wines of Mantova
Q1: What are the main wine styles produced in Mantova?
A: Mantova produces crisp whites from the Garda Hills and expressive, sparkling reds like Lambrusco Mantovano from the Po plains.
Q2: Is Lambrusco Mantovano sweet?
A: Not usually. Most Mantuan Lambruscos are dry or semi-dry, fresh and lightly fizzy — perfect for food.
Q3: Which dishes pair best with the wines of Mantova?
A: Think Italian comfort food: risotto, cured meats, grilled meats, and aged cheeses. The whites love fish; the reds love fat.
A Toast to Wine of Mantua’s Future
The wines of Mantova deserve more than a passing mention on a wine list — they deserve your glass. Between the elegance of Lake Garda and the heartbeat of the Po River, Mantua captures what makes Italian wine unforgettable: beauty, balance, and soul. Next time you’re at Eataly or your favorite enoteca, ask for a bottle from Mantua. It’s Italy — in full color.
