When people think of Emilia-Romagna, they picture red: Lambrusco’s jewel tones in sparkling glasses, poured alongside platters of prosciutto and Parmigiano. But Casali Viticultori has another treasure up its sleeve, one that whispers of history and carries the elegance of a pearl: Spergola.
This ancient white grape has roots reaching back to the 15th century, when Bianca Cappello, Grand Duchess of Tuscany, mentioned it in her writings. For centuries it quietly flourished in the hills of Scandiano and Canossa, only to nearly vanish in the wave of modern plantings. Casali stepped in as the first major producer to revive and protect this local variety, making it their mission to give Spergola a voice again.
A Grape With Deep Roots
The Spergola vine is tenacious. Its roots stretch deep into chalky soils, pulling up minerals that lend the wines their trademark freshness and saline edge. Add to that the swings in day-to-night temperatures on these hills, and you get grapes that ripen slowly, developing layers of flavour without losing their brightness.
Casali’s vineyards capture this balance perfectly. Their Spergola wines are crisp, floral, and mineral-driven, offering a contrast to Emilia’s richer, heartier reds. In many ways, Spergola is like the region’s white counterpoint to Lambrusco: versatile, food-friendly, and joyfully refreshing.
What’s in the Glass?
Pour a glass of Casali’s Spergola and you’ll notice a pale straw hue, almost shimmering in the light. On the nose, it’s a bouquet of white flowers, citrus zest, and a hint of green apple. Take a sip, and the wine crackles with acidity, layered with minerality and a clean, persistent finish. This isn’t a heavy white meant for contemplation — it’s a wine that practically begs for another glass.
Food Pairings That Shine
One of Spergola’s greatest strengths is how easily it pairs with food. Its crisp acidity and mineral backbone make it a natural with seafood: think grilled shrimp, oysters, or a simple linguine alle vongole. But it also complements Emilia’s signature dishes:
- Tortelli di ricotta ed erbette – the freshness of the wine cuts through the richness of the filling.
- Parmigiano Reggiano – the salt crystals in the cheese echo the wine’s minerality.
- Gnocco fritto with salumi – the bubbles (in its frizzante version) refresh the palate after each bite.
For something outside the traditional, try Spergola with sushi or Thai curries. Its clean profile and lively acidity handle spice and umami beautifully.
Why It Matters Today
Reviving Spergola isn’t just about saving an old grape. It’s about preserving the identity of a region. In a world where global grapes like Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc dominate shelves, wines like Spergola remind us of the unique stories tied to place. Casali’s role in championing this variety ensures that Emilia-Romagna’s wine landscape is as diverse as its food culture.
Spergola also resonates with modern drinkers: low in alcohol, high in freshness, and versatile at the table. It’s a wine that fits seamlessly into contemporary lifestyles while staying deeply rooted in tradition.
Casali’s Legacy With Spergola
Casali Viticultori has been more than just a steward of Spergola — they’ve elevated it. By investing in its cultivation and crafting wines that showcase its potential, they’ve ensured this grape won’t fade into obscurity again. Their work is a testament to the belief that heritage and innovation can walk hand in hand.
So next time you think of Emilia, don’t just picture red bubbles. Think of the golden shimmer of Spergola in your glass — a wine that carries centuries of history and a promise for the future.
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.
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