Many of my friends often turn to me for advice on wine pairings with Italian food. It is not a simple matter, as choosing the right wine can really enhance a cozy dinner with friends or family , make a romantic moment even more perfect or add that extra zest when we treat ourselves alone.
I want to start by stating one thing: while there are certain rules and traditions in this area, the most important thing is what you yourself prefer and what really appeals to you . I will give advice based on my experience as a connoisseur and enthusiast, but I encourage you to also explore for yourself and experiment with combinations that may seem unorthodox in theory. Ultimately , taste is a unique and personal experience!
I will structure this wine pairing guide around five different categories of cheese with varying ripening. Let me know what you think!
Another thing, I'm Italian and pair Italian food and I feel limited for now to suggest Italian wines for this guide. But there are also excellent choices abroad! I will probably write another guide in the future with a more global perspective if you find it useful. :)
Parmigiano Reggiano 12 months: Youthful vitality
The young Parmigiano cheese aged 12 months has a light and delicate taste that lays the foundation for our wine selection. its sweet notes of milk and butter will be accentuated with a light and fruity wine. I recommend a fresh and young white wine such as a Pinot Grigio delle Venezie or a Vermentino from Sardinia . These wines will compliment the mild taste of the cheese and create a harmonious balance on the palate.
I often enjoy this cheese as an appetizer, either with diced mortadella or with fresh sliced strawberries. In either case, a sparkling wine like a Prosecco Valdobbiadene Superiore (either Brut or Extra Dry) is a refreshing choice!
Parmigiano Reggiano 18 months: Fullness of maturation
With 18 months of maturation, the Parmigiano cheese's flavor begins to develop and its character becomes more complex. A medium to full-bodied white wine such as a Chardonnay or a Fiano di Avellino will complement the rich flavors of the cheese and bring its nutty undertones to life.
the taste is more complex, but I still recommend a white wine with it, but if you want to try a red, here are two different options: a sparkling and lively wine like a Lambrusco Grasparossa . If you prefer a non-sparkling wine, a light and young Sangiovese di Romagna, both from the area where this amazing cheese is produced.
Parmigiano Reggiano 24 months: The Perfect Balance
At 24 months, the Parmigiano cheese has achieved a perfect balance between flavor and texture. The cheese is soluble, crumbly and grainy, with a perfect balance between sweet and savory, and with subtle notes of fresh fruit, dried fruit and meat stock.
I suggest a full-bodied red wine like a Chianti or a Barbera . These wines will highlight the complex flavor profile of the cheese and add depth to the tasting experience.
Another red sparkling wine, light but lively, that responds well to this pairing is Gutturnio di Piacenza .
Parmigiano Reggiano 30 months: The Finesse of exclusivity
In Parmigiano Reggiano aged 30 months, the development in the maturation process becomes evident. The cheese becomes particularly crumbly and grainy, which increases the saltiness and solubility.
The taste is strong with notes of spices, meat broth and dried fruit, which come to the fore compared to the sweet and buttery notes of younger ripenings. When playing with pairings, take this into account: light and less structured wines must give way to more powerful red wines.
Therefore, a powerful red wine such as a Brunello di Montalcino or a Barolo will be the perfect match for this noble cheese and create a sublime gastronomic experience.
Parmigiano Reggiano 36 months: Ripe excellence
I think the most mature Parmigiano cheese on our list is a true gourmet experience. With maturation, the distinctive notes already present in Parmigiano at 30 months are enriched with savory notes of roasted nuts and umami notes of beef broth. With its intense flavor and texture, this cheese requires an exclusive red wine such as an Amarone della Valpolicella or a Primitivo di Manduria . These full-bodied wines will compliment the complexity of the cheese and provide an unforgettable taste experience.
I find that b arrique wines with their subtle vanilla notes are a perfect match for the distinct and spicy flavors of this fantastic Parmigiano Reggiano 36 months.
Parmigiano Reggiano and wine pairing is not just a science; it is an art that celebrates Italy's rich culinary heritage. I hope this guide has inspired you to explore the perfect combination of taste, tradition and passion at the dinner table. And remember, the best judge of your personal experience is yourself: experiment and…
...buon Appetito e salute!
