What Wine Goes with Pesto?

One dish that can be particularly tricky to pair with wine is pesto. This classic Italian sauce is made with fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil, and its bold, herbaceous flavors can sometimes clash with certain wines.

In general, you’ll want to look for wines with herbal and savory notes, some are listed here.

White Wines that Pair Well with Pesto

• Sauvignon Blanc: This white wine has high acidity and a crisp, refreshing flavor that pairs well with the bold flavors of the pesto.
• Chardonnay: This white wine has a creamy texture and notes of oak and vanilla, which pair well with the richness of the cheese and pesto on the pizza.
• Pinot Grigio: Another white wine with high acidity, Pinot Grigio has a light, fruity flavor that complements the flavors in pesto.
• Prosecco: This Italian sparkling wine is crisp and refreshing with notes of green apple and citrus. It pairs well with the lightness of the pesto pizza.
• Albariño: This Spanish white wine has notes of peach and apricot, which complement the sweetness of the tomatoes in the salad.
• Rosé: This light-bodied pink wine is refreshing and pairs well with the lightness of the salad.

Red Wines that Pair Well with Pesto

While white wines are often the go-to choice for pairing with pesto, some red wines can work well. Pinot Noir is a popular choice, as its lighter body and fruity flavors can complement the flavors of the pesto without overpowering them. Cabernet Franc can also work well, especially if it has been aged in oak barrels, as the oak can help to balance out the flavors of the pesto. Other red wines to consider include Zinfandel, Sangiovese, Malbec, and Port.

• Pinot Noir: This light-bodied red wine has notes of cherry and spice, which complement the flavors of the pesto. It also has enough acidity to cut through the richness of the cheese on the pizza.
• Chianti: If you prefer red wine, Chianti is a good option. It is a light-bodied red wine with high acidity that pairs well with the garlic and Parmesan flavors in pesto.

What is Pesto?

When we talk about pesto, we are referring to a traditional Italian sauce made from fresh basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. Pesto is a versatile sauce that can be used in a variety of dishes, including pasta, sandwiches, and salads.

The key to making pesto is using fresh ingredients, particularly fresh basil. The basil should be picked just before it flowers, as this is when it has the most flavor. The other ingredients are then added to create a smooth, creamy sauce.

Factors to Consider When Pairing Wine with Pesto

With regards to pairing wine with pesto, there are a few factors to consider that can help you create a perfect pairing. In this section, we’ll explore some of the key factors to consider when choosing a wine to pair with pesto.

Flavors in Pesto

Pesto is a flavorful sauce that is made with basil, garlic, pine nuts, Parmesan cheese, and olive oil. The flavors in pesto are bold and complex, with a combination of herbal, nutty, and salty notes. When choosing a wine to pair with pesto, it’s important to consider the flavors in the sauce and how they will interact with the wine.

Acidity in Wine and Pesto

Acidity is an important factor to consider when pairing wine with pesto. Pesto has a high acidity level due to the presence of vinegar and lemon juice, which can make the wine taste flat or dull. It’s important to choose a wine with high acidity to balance out the acidity in the pesto.

Richness and Balance in Wine Pairing with Pesto

Another factor to consider when pairing wine with pesto is the richness and balance of the wine. Pesto has a rich and creamy texture, which can be complemented by a full-bodied wine with a rich texture. However, it’s important to ensure that the wine is well-balanced and doesn’t overpower the flavors in the pesto.

Herbal Notes in Pesto and Wine Pairing

Herbal notes are a key component of pesto, with basil being the dominant herb. When choosing a wine to pair with pesto, it’s important to consider the herbal notes in the sauce and how they will interact with the wine. Wines with herbal notes, such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio, can complement the flavors in the pesto.

Minerality in Wine Pairing with Pesto

Minerality is another factor to consider when pairing wine with pesto. Wines with a mineral taste, such as Chablis or Sancerre, can complement the flavors in the pesto and enhance the overall pairing experience.

In summary, when pairing wine with pesto, it’s important to consider the flavors, acidity, richness, balance, herbal notes, and minerality of the wine. By taking these factors into account, you can create a perfect pairing that will enhance the flavors of both the wine and the pesto.

Our takeaway–

With regards to pairing wine with pesto, we recommend keeping in mind the strong flavors of basil, garlic, and Parmesan cheese. These flavors can overpower many wines, so it’s important to choose a wine that can stand up to them.

For a casual dinner with friends, we suggest a light-bodied red wine such as a Chianti or a Pinot Noir. These wines have enough acidity to balance the richness of the pesto and won’t overpower the dish.

If you’re hosting a more formal dinner party, consider a full-bodied white wine such as a Chardonnay or a Viognier. These wines have enough complexity to complement the flavors of the pesto and won’t be overshadowed by it.

For a summer picnic or outdoor gathering, a crisp and refreshing white wine such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a Pinot Grigio is a great choice. These wines are light and easy to drink, making them perfect for a casual occasion.

Overall, when pairing wine with pesto, it’s important to keep an open mind and be willing to experiment. By following these guidelines and trusting your taste buds, you’re sure to find the perfect pairing for any occasion and guests.

Frequently Asked Questions