When it comes to pairing wine with spaghetti, you want to choose one that complements the flavors of the dish. The acidity and richness of the tomato sauce, the savory herbs, and the saltiness of the Parmesan cheese all play a role in determining the perfect wine pairing. In this article we’re diving deep into the world of pasta so you know what to drink with your next meal!
The Best Wines to Pair with Spaghetti
When it comes to pairing wine with spaghetti, it’s all about finding the right balance. You want a wine that complements the flavors of the dish without overpowering them.
Red Wines to Pair with Spaghetti
1) Chianti
Chianti is a classic Italian wine that pairs well with spaghetti dishes. It has a medium body and high acidity, which makes it a great match for tomato-based sauces like marinara. Chianti also has flavors of cherry and plum, which can complement the sweetness of the tomato sauce.
2) Zinfandel
Zinfandel is a bold and fruity wine that can be a good match for spaghetti dishes with meatballs or bolognese sauce. Its flavors of blackberry and raspberry can complement the richness of the meat and tomato sauce. Zinfandel also has a high alcohol content, which can help cut through the fat in the dish.
3) Pinot Noir
Pinot Noir is a lighter red wine that can pair well with spaghetti dishes with mushroom pasta or lasagna. Its flavors of cherry and raspberry can complement the earthy flavors of the mushrooms. Pinot Noir also has a lower tannin content, which can make it a good match for dishes with creamy sauces.
4) Sangiovese
Sangiovese is another classic Italian wine that can be a good match for spaghetti dishes. It has a medium body and high acidity, which can complement the flavors of tomato-based sauces. Sangiovese also has flavors of cherry and plum, which can complement the sweetness of the tomato sauce.
When choosing a red wine to pair with your spaghetti dish, consider the flavors of the sauce and meat. A bold wine like Zinfandel can complement rich meat sauces, while a lighter wine like Pinot Noir can pair well with creamy mushroom sauces. Chianti and Sangiovese are classic options that can pair well with most spaghetti dishes.
White Wines to Pair with Spaghetti
1) Chardonnay
Chardonnay is a versatile white wine that can work well with many different types of pasta dishes. If you’re serving spaghetti with a cream-based sauce, a Chardonnay can help cut through the richness of the dish. This wine also pairs well with pasta dishes that include bacon or mushrooms.
When choosing a Chardonnay to pair with your spaghetti, look for one that has been aged in oak barrels. This can give the wine a slightly buttery flavor that can complement the creaminess of the sauce.
2) Riesling
If you’re serving a vegetarian pasta dish, a Riesling can be a great choice. This wine has a fruity, floral flavor that can complement the flavors of vegetables like figs and mushrooms. It can also pair well with marinara sauce.
When choosing a Riesling to pair with your spaghetti, look for one that is on the sweeter side. This can help balance out the acidity of the tomatoes in the sauce.
Factors to Consider When Pairing Wine with Spaghetti
When it comes to pairing wine with spaghetti, there are a few factors to consider to ensure you get the most out of your meal. Here are two important factors to keep in mind:
Acidity
The acidity of the wine is an important factor to consider when pairing it with spaghetti. A wine with high acidity can help cut through the rich flavors of the spaghetti sauce and cleanse your palate between bites.
If you’re looking for a wine with high acidity, you might consider a Chianti or a Pinot Noir. Both of these wines have a bright and lively acidity that pairs well with the acidity of the tomato sauce in spaghetti.
Flavors
The flavors in the wine should also be considered when pairing it with spaghetti. You want a wine that complements the flavors in the dish, rather than overpowering them.
If you’re looking for a wine with flavors that complement spaghetti, you might consider a wine with notes of cherry or strawberry. These flavors can complement the acidity of the tomato sauce and the herbal notes of basil in the dish.
Here are a few examples of wines that pair well with spaghetti:
Wine | Flavors | Acidity |
---|---|---|
Chianti | Cherry, earthy, and spicy notes | High |
Pinot Noir | Strawberry, cherry, and vanilla | High |
Barbera d’Alba | Cherry, blackberry, and spice | Medium to High |
Sangiovese | Plum, cherry, and herbal notes | Medium to High |
Montepulciano d’Abruzzo | Black cherry, plum, and spice | Medium to High |
By considering the acidity and flavors of the wine, you can find the perfect pairing for your spaghetti dish.
Break out that wine!
There are so many wines that can go well with a big bowl of your favorite spaghetti! Wine pairings all come down to understanding flavor profiles. Before choosing your wine, decide what type of dish you’re going to make, then reference this guide to best understand what to pair it with!
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