Food doesn’t get much better than fresh pasta, except for when it is also served with wine. While most people like to order a glass when they visit an Italian restaurant, they are not always sure which one will best complement their dish. Use the guide below to avoid this confusion on your next dining out adventure. 

Tomato-Based & Cheese-Based Pasta

Red sauces, especially those with meat, need a bold wine that can withstand the strong, acidic flavor profile. Medium-bodied, tart red wines, such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Chianti, Sangiovese, and Zinfandel, are often some of the better options. Although Merlot is a less harsh, red wine, its mellow plum and chocolate overtones make it a smooth pairing with tomato-based dishes. One classic combination is to pair spaghetti and meatballs with Montepulciano d’Abruzzo. 

When fresh pasta gets cheesier and creamier, like with Fettuccini Alfredo, your wine options get a lot wider. However, choosing one that has more texture, such as a full-bodied Chardonnay or a light-bodied Pinot Noir, will highlight the creamy and intense cheese flavor. 

Vegetable- & Herb-Based Pastas

In both of these cases, a light-bodied white wine should do the trick. The idea is to create a harmonious blend between the herbs and vegetables and the wine. For instance, the grassy overtones of a Sauvignon Blanc would really line up with green flavors found in a Gemelli Pesto; while a lemony and floral option like Trebbiano di Lugana would bring out the vegetable intensity in a fresh Primavera pasta. However, if the dish features seafood, you might want to up the body and acidity of the wine, such as with a Pinot Grigio.

When you are in the mood for fresh pasta, visit Paul’s Pasta Shop in Groton, CT. For over 30 years, this family-owned business has provided delicious food, a friendly atmosphere, and reasonable prices. Because of this, they have been repeatedly voted the ‘Best Italian Restaurant’ in the Southeastern Connecticut area. Stop in today to see why everyone praises them. You can also call (860) 445-5276 to place a delivery order and visit their website to see their menu.