Tuscany excels at full-bodied reds and hearty meat dishes. Their flagship Sangiovese wines like Chianti Classico and Brunello di Montalcino have bold, complex flavors that cut through fattiness in Bistecca alla Fiorentina (Florentine steaks) or rich wild boar ragù. The floral fruitiness refreshes between juicy, savory bites.
Similarly, Piedmont’s intense, dark cherry Barolo and Barbaresco Nebbiolos counterbalance brasato al Barolo (beef braised in Barolo) or steak tartare.
Italian whites like Pinot Grigio and Vermentino have lively acidity that complements tomato-based recipes. The acid cuts richness while the wine’s fruitiness highlights the tomato’s natural sweetness.
Pinot Grigio from Alto Adige is a classic with caprese, seafood linguine, or Margherita pizza. Lip-smacking Vermentino from Sardinia matches puttanesca sauce, vitello tonnato (veal in tuna sauce), or Parmigiano-Reggiano cheese.
The effervescence in Prosecco, Franciacorta, and Trento DOC Italian sparkling wines refreshes greasy residues from deep-fried foods.
Crunchy arancini, fritto misto, and pizza fritta become even tastier with a chilled flute of Prosecco or Franciacorta to cleanse the palate.
Lower-tannin reds like Valpolicella, Montepulciano d’Abruzzo, and easy-drinking Chianti embrace delicate pastas. Their juicy acidity and ripe fruit notes enhance spaghetti alle vongole (with clams) or pappardelle in wild boar ragu without overpowering.
Eggplant parmigiana, zucchini blossoms, and other meatless Italian dishes meet their match with fuller whites like Greco di Tufo and Fiano. Their savory, briny notes beautifully accentuate the vegetables, cheese, and herbs.
For an interactive way to explore Italian wine regions while picking up tasting tips, consider our wine puzzle - Italy. As you assemble the 1000-piece map of Italy's vineyards, the packaging provides guides to local grapes, aromas, and perfect food pairings. It's an immersive journey through Italian wine culture.
With so many wines and dishes to combine, Italian pairings offer endless options to savor. Remember the pairing principles, and you’re sure enjoy la dolce vita with every bite and sip! Salute!
