Best Red Wine With Spaghetti Bolognese
Spaghetti Bolognese is a classic Italian dish that has become a staple in many American households. The rich tomato-based sauce, savory ground beef, and perfectly cooked pasta make for a delicious and filling meal. But what is the best red wine to pair with this dish? Here are some options to consider.
Chianti
Chianti is a red wine from the Tuscany region of Italy. It is made from Sangiovese grapes and has a medium body with high acidity. This acidity pairs well with the tomato-based sauce in spaghetti Bolognese. Chianti also has a fruity flavor with notes of cherry and plum, which complements the richness of the beef. It is a classic pairing for Italian dishes and is easy to find in most wine shops.
Barbera
Barbera is a red wine from the Piedmont region of Italy. It is made from the Barbera grape and has a medium to high acidity with a fruity flavor. The acidity of Barbera cuts through the richness of the beef and complements the tomato-based sauce. The fruity flavor of Barbera has notes of cherry and blackberry, which pair well with the flavors in spaghetti Bolognese. It is a versatile wine that can also be enjoyed on its own.
Merlot
Merlot is a red wine that is grown in many regions around the world. It has a medium body with low to medium tannins and a soft, fruity flavor. The low tannins in Merlot make it a good pairing for spaghetti Bolognese, as the tannins in some red wines can clash with the acidity in the tomato-based sauce. The soft, fruity flavor of Merlot has notes of plum and black cherry, which pair well with the rich beef and tomato sauce.
Cabernet Sauvignon
Cabernet Sauvignon is a full-bodied red wine that is grown in many regions around the world. It has high tannins and a bold, complex flavor with notes of black currant, blackberry, and oak. The high tannins in Cabernet Sauvignon make it a good pairing for the richness of the beef in spaghetti Bolognese. The bold, complex flavor of Cabernet Sauvignon can stand up to the strong flavors in the dish and complement the tomato-based sauce.
Zinfandel
Zinfandel is a red wine that is grown primarily in California. It has a medium to high body with a fruity flavor and high alcohol content. The fruity flavor of Zinfandel has notes of raspberry and blackberry, which complement the flavors in spaghetti Bolognese. The high alcohol content in Zinfandel can also help cut through the richness of the beef and tomato sauce. It is a good choice for those who prefer a sweeter wine with their meal.
Conclusion
When it comes to pairing red wine with spaghetti Bolognese, there are many options to choose from. Chianti, Barbera, Merlot, Cabernet Sauvignon, and Zinfandel are all good choices that complement the flavors in the dish. The acidity of the wines helps to cut through the richness of the beef and tomato-based sauce, while the fruity flavors add complexity to the meal. It's important to choose a wine that you enjoy, so don't be afraid to try different options to find your perfect pairing.