Bedell Cellars winemaker Richard Olsen-Harbich is a pioneer of Long Island winemaking. Olsen-Harbich notably uses indigenous yeasts and in the case of this 2021 Frizzante, that makes for a unique wine not found elsewhere in the region. We chatted with the team at Bedell to learn about this Lambrusco-style wine and what makes it the perfect August wine, whether vacationing on the North Fork or in Emilia-Romagna, the region in Italy where this style of wine originated.
The style: This refreshing, semi-sparkling sparkling red wine is produced from 90% merlot and 10% cabernet franc grown on Bedell’s estate vineyard. This is a North Fork version of the famous Lambrusco wines of northern Italy.
Flavor profile: Light and fizzy with flavors of sour cherries, orange peel and pomegranate. This wine finishes dry with a subtle and savory, earthy complexity.
Pairs with: A wide variety of foods from pizza to pasta, barbecue and cured meats.
Aging process: Fermented with wild North Fork yeasts and aged in neutral French Oak barrels for 12 months. Stainless steel fermented and aged before canning to preserve freshness and pure fruitiness.
Ideal serving temp: Lambrusco-style wines are best served chilled between 45-55 degrees for a perfect summer wine.
On the nose: The Frizzante has delicate violet and strawberry/rhubarb aromas.
To hold or not to hold: Ready to drink right away.
Best time to drink: This wine is perfect for summer entertaining. And bubbles make any time extra festive!
Bedell Cellars’ 2021 Frizzante costs $30/bottle and can be purchased at the winery’s tasting room located at 36225 Main Road, Cutchogue.
