What Wine Goes With Pasta

Get ready to twirl your forks and grab your wine glasses! Pasta and wine are a classic duo that's been uniting food and wine lovers for ages. But with the plethora of pasta dishes available and the vast world of wine, it can be overwhelming to find the perfect pairing. Whether you're planning a date night, a dinner party, or just want to level up your weeknight meals, this guide on what wine goes with pasta will help you master the art of matching these two delicious indulgences.

Factors to Consider When Pairing Wine and Pasta

1. Sauce Base

Is your pasta slathered in a rich cream sauce, tangy tomato sauce, or savory meat sauce? The base of the sauce plays an essential role in choosing the right wine, as it contributes significantly to the dish's overall flavor profile.

2. Pasta Shape

Different pasta shapes have varying textures, which can affect how they interact with the wine. For instance, smoother pasta shapes may pair better with lighter wines, while textured pasta could stand up to more robust wines.

3. Protein and Vegetables

Consider the proteins (meat, fish, or cheese) and vegetables in your pasta dish, as they may change the flavor dynamics, and you'll need a wine that complements those elements.

Wine Pairing Suggestions for Popular Pasta Dishes

Below are some classic pasta dishes and our wine pairing recommendations:

Spaghetti Bolognese

Rich with deep flavors from the meat sauce, Spaghetti Bolognese calls for a bold red wine that can match its intensity. Look for medium to full-bodied wines with good acidity, like a Sangiovese, Nero d'Avola, or Cabernet Sauvignon.

Carbonara

Carbonara's creamy, rich and savory profile pairs well with a white wine that has enough body and acidity to cut through the fat. Opt for Italian whites like Vermentino or Verdicchio, or a Chardonnay if you prefer something more familiar.

Pesto Pasta

The herby, fresh flavors of pesto pasta are best accompanied by a crisp and zesty white wine. Reach for an Italian favorite like Vermentino, Sauvignon Blanc, or even a Pinot Grigio.

Shrimp Scampi

The lemony, garlicky flavors of shrimp scampi need a wine that's bright and fresh, yet delicate enough not to overpower the seafood. Choose a crisp and citrusy white, like a zesty Albariño, a refreshing Vermentino, or a classic Sauvignon Blanc.

Vegetarian Pasta Primavera

A pasta dish full of colorful veggies calls for a versatile wine that can handle all the different flavors. Look for lighter, fruity reds like a Pinot Noir, or crisp and expressive whites like Grillo or Greco di Tufo.

What Wine Goes With Pasta Example:

Imagine hosting a dinner party with a menu featuring creamy, truffle-infused mushroom pasta as the main course. To enhance the velvety and umami flavors of the dish, you could choose a bold and earthy red like a Barolo or a Chianti Classico. With your newfound knowledge unveiled in this guide, your guests will be impressed at how well the wine accentuates the dish's luxurious and savory flavors.

And there you have it! With this guide on what wine goes with pasta, you're now equipped to create delightful dining experiences that will impress your guests, your partner, or just yourself. Don't forget to bookmark this for future reference, and feel free to share it with your fellow wine and pasta lovers! Explore other pairing guides and exciting wine-related articles on Black Wine Club to further expand your knowledge and elevate your wine appreciation game. Cheers!