Il Casalone is a blend of 85% Lambrusco Salamino and 15% Ancellotta. Il Casalone is the name of Alberici’s land, a 10-hectare parcel at the junction of Parma, Reggio Emilia and Mantova. It’s also the name given to the estate’s most savory, old-school Lambrusco. With natural fermentation, it takes 6-8 months to make this wine.
The nose is a bit more intense and offers more dark fruit notes than the Fogarina. Brisk, yet balanced upon entry, then classically dry in the middle, with deep blackberry and dark cherry flavors extending nicely on the smooth, suave, long finish. Herbal notes add complexity. Again, the purity and honesty here is stunning. ~Mike Guerra, Enoteca Direct