In the rolling hills and fertile plains of Emilia-Romagna, Lambrusco has always been more than wine. It’s a daily companion to meals, a spark of joy at family gatherings, and a tie that binds communities together. Among all the versions of this beloved red sparkler, Prà di Bosso from Casali Viticultori stands apart as a landmark in the region’s winemaking story.
Why the Name Matters
The phrase Prà di Bosso translates roughly to “Field of Boxwood.” Centuries ago, boxwood plants were used to mark vineyard boundaries. That same sense of definition carries through in the wine itself. When Casali introduced Prà di Bosso in the early 1980s, it was the first Lambrusco crafted from a single vineyard, clearly delineating its identity at a time when most Lambrusco was blended. It drew a figurative line in the soil: this is what Reggiano Lambrusco can be when given focus and care.
The Grapes Behind the Glass
Prà di Bosso’s strength lies in its thoughtful blend. Casali draws primarily on Lambrusco Montericco for its herbal notes, Lambrusco Marani for lively acidity, and Lambrusco Salamino for colour and structure. Each grape brings its own voice to the chorus, creating a wine that is vivid, balanced, and unmistakably tied to Reggio Emilia’s terroir.
The result is a Lambrusco that pours a brilliant ruby red, capped with a lively froth, and offers aromas of violets, red berries, and a subtle rustic note. On the palate, it’s both refreshing and substantial, with the playful bubbles dancing over flavours of cherries, raspberries, and a touch of earth.
An Emblem of Tradition and Innovation
Prà di Bosso also carries the spirit of experimentation that defines Casali. In the 1970s, the family had ventured to Champagne to learn the secrets of sparkling winemaking, later bringing those lessons home to Emilia. That experience didn’t turn Prà di Bosso into an imitation of French wine — far from it. Instead, it gave Casali the confidence to innovate while honouring Lambrusco’s roots.
The stained-glass-inspired label on Prà di Bosso reflects this blend of history and imagination. The design was inspired by windows seen on that journey to Champagne, but the figures depicted — Massimo Casali and his wife Anna working in the vineyards — ground the story firmly in Emilia’s soil.
Food at the Heart of It
Lambrusco has always been a food wine, and Prà di Bosso exemplifies why. Its lively acidity and gentle fizz cut through the richness of Emilia’s cuisine:
- Parmigiano Reggiano finds its perfect match here, the salty, nutty crystals balanced by Lambrusco’s bright fruit.
- Cured meats like mortadella and prosciutto meet their match in the wine’s freshness, each sip cleansing the palate for another bite.
- Lasagna alla Bolognese, rich with meat ragù and creamy béchamel, is lifted by Prà di Bosso’s sparkle.
Beyond Emilia, the wine’s versatility shines with global dishes. Try it with Korean bulgogi, barbecue ribs, or even spicy Mexican tacos. Lambrusco’s light spritz and moderate alcohol make it a refreshing partner for bold flavours.
From Classic to Storico
Over time, Prà di Bosso grew into Prà di Bosso Storico, a more refined and ambitious expression that highlights the very best of Reggiano Lambrusco. This version has become a fixture on the wine lists of Michelin-starred restaurants, proving that Lambrusco can be just as elegant as it is fun. Storico leans into structure and depth, while still delivering the joyful sparkle that defines the style.
Why Prà di Bosso Endures
In the crowded world of Italian wines, Prà di Bosso stands out because it tells a story of boundary-setting — both literal and figurative. It honours a regional tradition that dates back centuries while proving that Lambrusco can achieve complexity, finesse, and international acclaim.
For Casali, Prà di Bosso isn’t just a bottle on the shelf; it’s a statement of identity. For wine lovers, it’s an invitation to rediscover Lambrusco not as a humble table wine, but as a vibrant expression of Emilia’s heart and history.
Discover more at Casali Viticultori.
Campaign financed according to EU Reg. N. 2021/2115. Ministero dell’Agricoltura della Sovranità Alimentare e delle Foreste. Wine reviews and opinions remain independent.
Please enjoy responsibly.
