Wine Pairing Guide Badge

A Guide to Italian Food and Wine Pairings

A thoughtfully chosen wine can bring an entire meal together. Crisp whites can brighten seafood and herb-forward dishes, sparkling wines can balance salty appetizers, and bold reds can complement slow-cooked meats and rich tomato sauces.

With hundreds of recipes in the Cento kitchen, there is no shortage of delicious combinations to explore. Use this guide as a starting point, choose your favorite bottle, and discover three Italian-inspired recipes to enjoy with every pour.

wine glasses on table

Champagne

Champagne is not only for celebrations. Its lively bubbles and refreshing acidity make it an excellent match for salty, crispy and savory foods. Fried seafood, baked shellfish and aged cheeses provide richness, while the wine keeps every bite feeling light and balanced.

Clams Oreganata

Panko Breaded Shrimp

Spicy Parmesan Crisps

Moscato

Lightly sweet and aromatic, Moscato pairs beautifully with ingredients that combine sweetness, salt and gentle heat. Prosciutto, ripe fruit and mildly spicy dishes allow the wine’s bright character to shine without overpowering the meal.

Melon Prosciutto Skewers

Flatbread with Peaches, Basil & Prosciutto

Spicy Prawn Pasta

Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio

These crisp, refreshing white wines are natural companions for seafood, citrus, fresh herbs and creamy cheeses. Their bright acidity complements briny capers, tender fish and basil-forward sauces while keeping the pairing clean and refreshing.

White Fish with Capers, Olives, & Artichokes

Baked Mediterranean Cod

Pesto Ricotta Pasta

Chardonnay

Chardonnay is a versatile choice for creamy pastas, poultry, salmon and mellow cheeses. Its fuller body complements richer textures, while its acidity helps balance buttery sauces and savory ingredients.

Chicken Piccata

Creamy Ditalini with Parmesan

Salmon with Spinach & White Beans

Rosé

Rosé belongs at the table throughout the year. Its refreshing acidity and subtle fruit character work especially well with roasted peppers, prosciutto, shellfish and lightly breaded meats. It is an easygoing option when a meal includes several different flavors

Creamy Tomato Gnocchi with Burrata and Prosciutto

Spicy Shrimp Over Orzo

Sicilian Pork Milanese

Pinot Noir​

Pinot Noir is a lighter red wine with an earthy, savory character that complements mushrooms, herbs, pork and roasted vegetables. Its softer structure provides enough depth for a hearty dish without overwhelming more delicate ingredients.

Pasta with Mushrooms, Onion & Garlic Sauce

Stuffed Mushrooms

Herb-Crusted Sun-Dried Pork Chops

Zinfandel or Merlot

Although each wine has its own personality, both Zinfandel and Merlot pair well with savory meats, tomato-based sauces and roasted ingredients. Zinfandel works especially well with spice and smoky flavors, while Merlot offers a softer match for slow-cooked sauces, sausage and poultry.

Chicken Cacciatore

Sausage & Vegetable Bake

Pappardelle with Red Wine Ragu

Cabernet Sauvignon or Malbec

Bold red wines call for bold dishes. Cabernet Sauvignon and Malbec have the depth to complement slow-cooked beef, layered pasta, rich tomato sauces and aged cheeses. These are pairings made for hearty dinners and meals meant to be enjoyed slowly.

Chicken Cacciatore

Instant Pot Balsamic Short Ribs

Eggplant Parmigiana

Nutrition Facts

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Packaging, nutrition facts and ingredient statements are
subject to change. For the most up to date information
regarding a product, please refer to the product’s packaging.