The key to successfully pairing wine with bolognese sauce lies in finding a wine that complements and enhances the dish without overpowering it. Opting for medium to full-bodied wines with good tannins is a great starting point. Here are a few wine suggestions to complement your bolognese sauce:
1. Chianti Classico: Chianti is one of Italy’s most famous and widely appreciated red wines. Chianti Classico, made from Sangiovese grapes, offers a lovely balance of fruitiness, acidity, and structure. It pairs exceptionally well with bolognese sauce due to its cherry and plum flavors, herbal undertones, and grippy tannins that help cut through the richness of the dish.
2. Barbera d’Alba: Another fantastic Italian red wine to consider is Barbera d’Alba. This wine, made from the Barbera grape, boasts vibrant acidity, red fruit flavors, and a smooth finish. Its acidity works wonders with the tomato-based bolognese sauce, while its medium body complements the flavors of the dish without overshadowing them.
3. Sangiovese-based wines: Sangiovese, the prominent grape used in Chianti, is also found in various other Italian wines. Brunello di Montalcino, Vino Nobile di Montepulciano, and Rosso di Montalcino are examples of Sangiovese-based wines that possess a good balance of fruitiness, acidity, and firm tannins. These wines marry very well with bolognese sauce and add depth to its flavors.
4. Zinfandel: If you prefer a wine from outside Italy, an excellent choice is Zinfandel. The bold and jammy flavors of Zinfandel, with notes of black cherries and spices, harmonize nicely with the hearty elements of bolognese sauce. Its high alcohol content and vibrant fruitiness complement the rich flavors of the sauce, creating a delectable pairing.
5. Montepulciano d’Abruzzo: Montepulciano d’Abruzzo is a medium-bodied red wine from the Abruzzo region of Italy. It offers ripe dark fruit flavors, moderate acidity, and soft tannins, making it a versatile choice when pairing with bolognese sauce. The wine’s fruitiness and smoothness complement the savory elements of the sauce, resulting in a delightful combination.
Ultimately, the choice of wine to accompany bolognese sauce depends on personal preferences and the specific characteristics of the sauce itself. Exploring different wine varietals and styles can certainly add excitement and enhance your culinary experience. Remember to experiment, have fun, and above all, enjoy the delicious harmony between wine and bolognese sauce. Cheers!