If you’ve ever sipped a chilled glass of Lambrusco and wondered if you’ve stumbled on a hidden gem or an underpriced luxury, you’re not alone. Lambrusco—Italy’s sparkling red wine—is having a quiet renaissance. But how much should you expect to pay? And is Lambrusco considered expensive?
The Short Answer: No, Lambrusco Isn’t Typically Expensive
Lambrusco is known for offering exceptional value. Most bottles range from $15 to $30 CAD, with a few premium options reaching into the $40–$60+ range. Compared to other sparkling wines like Champagne or high-end Prosecco, Lambrusco sits in the sweet spot—affordable without compromising on character.
Why Is Lambrusco So Affordable?
There are a few reasons:
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Made to Be Enjoyed Young: Lambrusco isn’t aged for years in cellars. It’s fresh, vibrant, and meant to be drunk young. That means lower production costs.
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Large Production in Emilia-Romagna: This region of Northern Italy has been making Lambrusco for generations. With efficiency, tradition, and volume on their side, producers can keep prices reasonable.
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Less Global Hype—For Now: Unlike Champagne or Barolo, Lambrusco doesn’t carry inflated prestige pricing (yet). That makes it a bit of a well-kept secret for wine lovers.
What About Premium Lambrusco?
Just like any wine category, there are levels. Artisanal producers working with rare clones, single-vineyard fruit, or traditional methods (like Metodo Classico) can command higher prices. In those cases, you're paying for:
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Smaller production volume
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Hand-harvested grapes
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Longer fermentation methods
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Family-run winemaking focused on quality, not quantity
At Tomato Wheels, our Lambrusco is crafted to strike a balance between quality and accessibility. It’s not “cheap wine”—it’s wine that over-delivers.
How Much Should You Spend on a Good Bottle?
For most people, $22–$35 will get you a great bottle of Lambrusco. That price range gets you:
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Real fruit character (not syrupy sweetness)
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A proper dry or off-dry style
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Beautiful effervescence
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Pairing versatility (pizza, charcuterie, roasted veggies—you name it)
Where to Buy Lambrusco in Canada
You can find Lambrusco at a growing list of shops across the country, including:
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Market Wines (Calgary)
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Kensington Wine Market (Calgary)
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Liquor Nerds (Calgary)
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Vine Arts (Calgary)
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Yaletown Liquor Store (Vancouver)
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Barbarella Restaurant (Vancouver, on select menus)
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Sobeys (select locations — availability may vary)
Or order here and have it shipped to your door.
Final Thought: Affordable Doesn’t Mean Forgettable
Lambrusco proves that price doesn’t always equal pleasure. It’s a wine that brings people together—sparkling, vibrant, and real. So whether you’re spending $22 or $45, you’re getting a bottle that’s worth every sip.