When it comes to matching wine with food, my absolute favorite pair is spaghetti and wine. There is simply something enchanting about a flawlessly prepared dish of pasta smothered in a luscious tomato sauce, and when paired with the appropriate wine, it can truly enhance the dining experience.
Now, you might be wondering, what kind of wine goes best with spaghetti? Well, the answer to that question depends on the sauce you’re using. Let’s explore some of my personal favorite pairings and why they work so well together.
Classic Spaghetti with Marinara Sauce
When it comes to a classic spaghetti with marinara sauce, I love pairing it with a Chianti. Chianti is a red wine from Tuscany, Italy, made primarily from Sangiovese grapes. Its bright acidity and moderate tannins complement the tangy tomato flavors of the marinara sauce perfectly. The fruity notes in the Chianti also add a nice touch to the overall flavor profile.
Spaghetti Bolognese
If you’re making a rich and meaty spaghetti Bolognese, you’ll want a wine that can stand up to the robust flavors. For this dish, I highly recommend a bold and full-bodied red wine like a Barolo or a Cabernet Sauvignon. These wines have enough structure and depth to match the intensity of the Bolognese sauce.
Spaghetti Carbonara
When it comes to spaghetti Carbonara, a creamy and indulgent pasta dish, a white wine is the way to go. I personally enjoy pairing it with a crisp and refreshing Chardonnay. The buttery notes in the wine complement the rich flavors of the bacon and the creamy sauce, creating a harmonious balance on the palate.
Vegetarian Spaghetti with Pesto
For a lighter and herbaceous spaghetti dish like one with pesto sauce, I like to pair it with a Sauvignon Blanc or a Pinot Grigio. These white wines have vibrant acidity and herbal undertones that beautifully enhance the freshness of the pesto. The citrus notes in the Sauvignon Blanc can also add a lovely zing to the overall flavor profile.
Conclusion
Pairing the right wine with spaghetti can truly take your dining experience to the next level. Whether you’re enjoying a classic marinara sauce, a hearty Bolognese, a creamy Carbonara, or a vegetarian pesto, there is a wine out there that can perfectly complement the flavors of your dish. So, the next time you’re preparing a plate of spaghetti, don’t forget to pour yourself a glass of wine and indulge in a truly delightful pairing.
