Lombardia, Italy

A local speciality, sparkling Bonarda (aka Croatina) is the Oltrepo's answer to Emilia's Lambrusco, albeit with a much more subtle bubble. Secondary fermentation in tank is started using the natural sugar of the grapes and indigenous yeasts, creating a more raffish and almost understated effervescence than anything super carbonated. A brilliant ruby red in the glass, it’s marked by Marasca cherry, wild fruits, and floral notes, before revealing a darker and gamier side; a gentle interplay of blue, black, and red fruit, violet and earth persists throughout. 'Ipazia' strikes an elegant balance between fine-grained tannins and a fresh, not-quite bone-dry finish that'll keep you coming back for more. Go on then!