Wine is the perfect accompaniment to rich Italian food made with fresh pasta. When selecting the right blend to order with your pasta dish, look to the flavors of the pasta sauce for help. Here are wine pairings for several different types of popular pasta dishes.

How to Order Wine With Fresh Pasta

1. Tomato-Based Pasta

Tomatoes are very acidic, so it’s important to choose a wine that matches the acidity in the sauce. The best option is a medium-bodied red wine that’s relatively tart. If the wine isn’t tart enough, it can taste bland compared to the sauce. For richer sauces that include cream or meat, you can increase the body of the wine, but don’t leave the tartness behind. Some delicious options include cabernet sauvignon and zinfandel.

2. Primavera Pasta

When pairing wine with vegetable and pasta dishes, you need to highlight the freshness of the veggies. Order a lemony, floral white wine. Choose a sauvignon blanc or chardonnay to appreciate all the bright flavors of the food.

However, if your primavera dish contains tomatoes, choose a wine from the tomato-based sauce section instead.

3. Cheese Pasta

Most wines pair well with cheese, so it’s okay to yield a little to your personal preferences here. If you’re looking for a white wine to pair with your cheese pasta, choose a light-bodied option with some creaminess, like chardonnay. If you’re in the mood for red wine, a lighter, floral red like pinot noir pairs nicely with dishes like carbonara or fresh pasta served with earthy veggies like mushrooms.

4. Seafood Pasta

If you want seafood with your fresh pasta, you’ll want to match the Mediterranean flavors of your dish when picking a wine. A light, acidic white wine like pinot grigio or rosé is a great choice. It highlights the freshness of your seafood while not overpowering the light taste.

When you’re in the mood for unmatched, fresh Italian food, visit Paul’s Pasta Shop in Groton, CT. They’ve been serving fresh pasta since 1988, and have won several Readers’ Choice Awards in Connecticut Magazine for their authentic cuisine. Their restaurant serves wine, and their staff can help you pick the best pairing for lunch or dinner. Check out their menu online or call (860) 445-5276 for more information.