How to Order Wine at an Italian Restaurant

Most wine lists will be divided by red and white wines, which refers to the color of the grapes used to make the beverage. White wine is primarily made with white grapes that have the skin removed, while red wine is made with dark red or black grapes that are fermented with skins for added color and tannins. Aside from the color, red wines are known for rich, deep flavors, while white wines are celebrated for light floral notes, fruity aromas, and bright acidity. 

Another common set of terms you'll find on a wine list is dry vs sweet wine. These terms refer to the amount of sugar left behind after the fermentation process. Lower levels of sugar and higher alcohol contents result in wines that are known as "dry" wines, while sweet wines have higher levels of sugar left behind. Any wine can be sweet or dry, as the winemaker ultimately decides the final sweetness. Sweet wines are often made by boosting the sugar concentration in grapes with heat, or by adding sugar into grape juice before fermentation. 

Many people ask, "What is the best wine to order at a restaurant?" But there isn't an exact answer. It all comes down to your own personal preferences, and your entrée choices. When it's time to choose which wines to pair with Italian food, we have a few suggestions.

 Pinot noir is known for its rich, earthy undertones, which provide the perfect complement to creamy pasta dishes. Ordering seafood? Dry white wines pair exceptionally well with delicate, mild fish and shrimp. Heartier red wines like shiraz pair well with our stone-baked pizza , and provide just a touch of sweetness to highlight our homemade tomato sauce.

When it's time to order wine at dinner, the first thing to do is find out who is drinking, and what type of wine they prefer. If everyone is able to agree, it's easy to split a bottle among the table. Otherwise, it may be better for each person to try their own wine glass. 

While it can be nice to splurge, it's not always necessary, so make sure everyone is in agreement on a maximum price point. Many house wines are just as delicious as the pricier options. If you will be sharing a bottle, get a consensus on whether the table would prefer a sweet red or a dry white. It might come down to the type of food each person is ordering, as some wines pair better than others. 

Wondering which wine pairs with Italian food? Your server will be the best resource for expert advice on wine pairings, so don't be afraid to ask for their professional recommendations. Once it arrives, be sure to sample the wine and make sure it's something everyone will enjoy. Finally, sit back and sip, and enjoy a great meal.

Searching for the perfect wine to pair with Smyrna Italian Food? We would love to make some recommendations! Join us this week for lunch and dinner at our restaurant in Smyrna and try something different. We offer a full wine list and a thoughtfully curated bar program to satisfy every craving.