Fragolino is an Italian wine with a distinct strawberry aroma, traditionally made from American grape varieties like Isabella. It has low alcohol content and originates from northeastern Italy.
How it is made
Traditional Fragolino wine is made from Isabella and other American grape varieties (Vitis labrusca) known as 'strawberry grape' in Italy. These grapes are resistant to pests and weather conditions but not suitable for long-aging wines.
History
Production of Fragolino began in the late 19th century in northeastern Italy. In 1931, Italy banned the sale of wine made from American grape varieties to protect traditional European vines. The ban was strengthened in 1987 and 1999 under EU pressure, though home production for personal use remains permitted.
Types and styles
Modern Fragolino products in Italy are typically not traditional wines but wine-based drinks with added strawberry syrups, flavorings, and colorings. There's also a digestif liqueur version made by infusing strawberries or strawberries in alcohol.
Adapted from the Russian Wikipedia article Фраголино, available under CC BY-SA 4.0.