Winemaker Notes
One of the world’s most classic and popular styles of red wine, Bordeaux-inspired blends have spread from their homeland in France to nearly every corner of the New World. Typically based on either Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot and supported by Cabernet Franc, Malbec and Petit Verdot, the best of these are densely hued, fragrant, full of fruit and boast a structure that begs for cellar time. Somm Secret—Blends from Bordeaux are generally earthier compared to those from the New World, which tend to be fruit-dominant.
The flat plains of Emilia are home to Italy's famous, slightly sparking red, Lambrusco. While historically popular in large volumes, Lambrusco suffered a bit of scorn as an overly simple and sweet, frothy wine. Today there is an artisanl pull to produce small-batch, quality-focused dry and sweet versions within its four distinct Lambrusco subregions.