Whether it’s for a fancy dinner party or a night in with friends or a loved one, the right wine can make or break any meal. Next time Italian food is on the menu, why not try pairing it with traditional Italian Wines for a classic and refined dining experience? This can be a bit overwhelming for those who are not already seasoned wine connoisseurs, but there are a few things in mind that can help even casual dabblers in fine wines to make the right choice every time.
Italian Wines are generally divided into two categories. Table wines are generally less expensive and are best chosen for a casual family style dinner. They can be red or white, and often come in larger bottles, which can help to accommodate extra family members or guests who will be enjoying wine with dinner. They are often light to medium bodied and can be either red or white. High end wines will be more expensive, but the higher price tag is accompanied by superior flavor. There is a higher diversity of high end wines, with over 2000 grape varieties growing in Italy. Often made from a combination of different species of grape, the variety of choices when it comes to high end wines can be somewhat overwhelming.
As a basic rule of thumb, red wines are a good choice for pairing with most Italian food. Chianti is a good choice for spaghetti and meatballs, whereas Dolcetto d’Alba might better compliment other meat dishes. A Barolo or Barbaresco is best for high protein and high fat meals, due to their full flavor and characteristic acidity. These are typically a little more high end and thus more expensive than traditional table wines, making them ideal for a special occasion.
As far as white wine goes, Pinot Grigio is Italy’s most popular variety. It’s acidity and flavor make it a good choice for pairing with seafood or poultry, particularly when compared to red wines that are better suited for darker meats. Of course these are only guidelines. When it comes to wine pairings, the best option is to experiment to see what works. Whether customers are looking for a table wine or a high end aromatic treat, Towne Cellars Wines & Liquors Inc. carries a wide variety of Italian and other wines that are perfect for elegant dinner pairings.
