Wine is the perfect complement to your meal at an Italian restaurant. The herb-infused flavors of Italian cuisine pair beautifully with the unique taste of wine. Each type of wine has its own undertones and level of tang, so it’s best to know which type to order depending on your entrée.

A Guide to Pairing Wine at an Italian Restaurant

1. Cabernet Sauvignon

Cabernet Sauvignon is a red wine with a strong black currant flavor that often contains undertones of blackberry or mint. It has a bold flavor that can overwhelm lighter dishes, but its rich taste is perfect for dishes with tomato-based sauces. The heavy taste of the tomato sauce neutralizes the bitter tannins in the wine to bring out the fruitier flavors.

2. Pinot Grigio

Pinot Grigio or Pinot Gris is a zesty white wine. It has a robust flavor that is relatively simple and easy to drink. Common flavors include lime, lemon, pear, white nectarine, apple, and honeysuckle. Its slight acidity pairs nicely with pesto, oil-based, and cream-based dishes.

3. Zinfandel

Zinfandel is a tasty and bold red wine. It has a peppery flavor with cherry and berry undertones. It pairs well with fatty dishes, since the bitter tannins help neutralize the fatty flavors. As a result, this wine pairs well with meat-based dishes and tomato-based sauces.

4. Chardonnay

The taste of this white wine can range from sweet to sour, depending on the fermentation process and the vineyard it came from. It is a versatile wine that can be paired with oil-based, cream-based, and lighter red sauces. Whether you’re ordering spaghetti with marinara sauce or fettuccine with lemon butter, this wine is the right choice.

When you’re craving a delicious pasta dish with a glass of wine, order from Giannos of High Point in Guildford County, NC. This Italian restaurant has a wide selection of authentic dishes, including pizza, seafood, pasta, sandwiches, and salads. Visit their website to browse their dinner menu or call (336) 885-0762 to place a carryout order.