Author: Chris Wormald
If there’s two foods that work amazing together it’s wine and pasta. The better of one makes the other taste better as well. Skip to the bottom for an easy cheat!
Personally, I’ve always believed that wine pairing is over-rated. Take a wine you love and serve it with food you love and the love multiplies. Cabernet Sauvignon and trout – go for it!
But there’s times when you need to impress. So here’s some classic wine pairings with great pasta dishes. We included some fancy words here that you can include in the conversation to help you fake your way to a level of sophistication you probably don’t really have.
Understanding Wine Pairing:
Pairing wine with food is more than just a matter of personal preference; it's an intricate interplay of flavors, textures, and aromas – at least that’s what the experts say. When selecting a wine to complement a sourdough pasta dish, consider the following factors:
- Acidity: Sourdough pasta tends to have a tangy flavor profile due to the fermentation process, making it well-suited to wines with higher acidity that can cut through the richness of the dish.
- Body: The body of the wine should match the weight and texture of the pasta sauce. Lighter-bodied wines pair well with delicate sauces, while fuller-bodied wines can stand up to richer, heartier flavors.
- Flavor Profile: Consider the dominant flavors in the pasta dish and choose a wine that complements or contrasts with those flavors. For example, a wine with fruity notes might enhance the sweetness of a tomato-based sauce, while a wine with herbal or earthy undertones could accentuate the savory elements of a mushroom sauce.
Now, let's explore five exemplary sourdough pasta dishes and their perfect wine pairings:
- Classic Spaghetti Carbonara:
Why It Works: The creamy richness of the carbonara sauce is beautifully balanced by the buttery notes of a Chardonnay, while its acidity cuts through the richness of the dish.
- Lemon Garlic Sourdough Fettuccine:
Why It Works: The bright acidity and citrusy flavors of a Sauvignon Blanc complement the zesty lemon and garlic flavors in the pasta, creating a refreshing and vibrant pairing.
- Wild Mushroom Sourdough Ravioli:
Why It Works: The earthy, umami-rich flavors of the mushroom ravioli are enhanced by the fruity and slightly spicy notes of a Pinot Noir, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
- Spicy Arrabbiata with Sourdough Penne:
Why It Works: The bold, spicy flavors of the arrabbiata sauce are complemented by the robust tannins and cherry notes of a Sangiovese, creating a dynamic and satisfying pairing.
- Creamy Pumpkin Sourdough Gnocchi:
Wine Pairing: Riesling
Why It Works: The sweetness of the pumpkin and the creamy texture of the gnocchi are beautifully complemented by the fruity sweetness and crisp acidity of a Riesling, resulting in a delightful and refreshing pairing.
By considering the acidity, body, and flavor profile of both the wine and the dish, you can create harmonious pairings that elevate the dining experience to new heights. So, whether you're indulging in a classic carbonara or savoring a spicy arrabbiata, let the perfect wine be your culinary companion and toast to the magic of sourdough pasta. Cheers!
Pro Tip: If you can’t be bothered with this – get the best bottle of Pinot Noir your budget allows and it will work almost for sure! Belle Glos is a can't miss!!
For Further Reading
Wine Enthusiast: How to Pair Wine with Pasta: A Cheat Sheet
The Kitchen Community: Best Wine to Serve with Pasta: A Friendly Guide to Pairings
The Ultimate Guide to Sourdough - All things Sourdough
