Grilled Meats

• Grilled Steak: A ribeye or sirloin steak works beautifully with this full-bodied wine. The wine’s depth and tannins complement the richness and smoky flavors of the grilled meat.
• Lamb Chops: Grilled or roasted lamb with rosemary and garlic enhances the earthy flavors of the wine, creating a balanced pairing.
• Barbecue Ribs: BBQ pork ribs or beef short ribs with a smoky, tangy sauce pair wonderfully, as the wine’s bold fruit character complements the richness and slight sweetness of the barbecue sauce.

Pasta Dishes

• Pasta Bolognese: Pasta with a rich Bolognese sauce (meat and tomato-based) is a classic pairing, as the wine’s acidity helps cut through the richness of the sauce while complementing the meaty flavors.
• Pappardelle with Wild Boar: A rustic dish like wild boar ragu on pappardelle pasta works well, as the gamey flavors of the meat pair perfectly with the wine’s deep fruitiness and spices.
• Spaghetti with Meatballs: The classic Italian dish of spaghetti and meatballs pairs well with the wine’s bold structure and ripe fruit flavors.

Cheese Pairings

• Aged Pecorino: The nutty and salty character of aged Pecorino cheese complements the richness and bold tannins in the wine, creating a harmonious pairing.
• Parmigiano-Reggiano: Parmigiano-Reggiano, especially the aged varieties, works beautifully with the full-bodied and slightly peppery nature of the wine.
• Gorgonzola: The creaminess and bold, tangy flavor of Gorgonzola or other blue cheeses work well with the wine’s fruitiness and robust profile.

Charcuterie

• Cured Meats: A selection of prosciutto, salami, or soppressata works well, as the wine’s tannins and acidity balance the richness and saltiness of the cured meats.
• Pâté: Duck pâté or a rich country pâté with herbs enhances the wine’s complexity, making it an ideal pairing.

Roasted Vegetables

• Grilled or Roasted Vegetables: Grilled eggplant, zucchini, bell peppers, or root vegetables like carrots or sweet potatoes pair wonderfully, especially when roasted with olive oil, garlic, and herbs.
• Mushroom Dishes: Mushroom risotto or a dish featuring wild mushrooms works well with the earthy flavors of the wine.

Pizza

• Pepperoni Pizza: A pepperoni pizza with its spicy, fatty flavors pairs nicely with the full-bodied nature of the wine.
• Pizza with Sausage: Italian sausage and fennel pizza or a pizza with rich toppings like mozzarella, tomato sauce, and basil balances out the wine’s fruit and spice.

Hearty Mediterranean Dishes

• Osso Buco: The rich and flavorful dish of braised veal shanks (Osso Buco) works wonderfully with the depth and structure of the wine.
• Eggplant Parmesan: Eggplant Parmesan (Melanzane alla Parmigiana) is a great pairing, as the tomato sauce, cheese, and eggplant meld well with the wine’s fruit and earthiness.

Grilled or Roasted Game Meat

• Venison: If you’re indulging in game, roasted venison with herbs and a rich sauce would pair beautifully with the wine’s depth.
• Wild Boar: A wild game dish like wild boar stew or braised wild boar will complement the wine’s earthy, spicy flavors.

Dessert Pairings (if the wine is slightly sweeter)

• Dark Chocolate: A rich dark chocolate dessert (70% or more cacao) pairs well, especially if the wine has hints of ripe fruit and a touch of sweetness.
• Tiramisu: A classic Tiramisu with its coffee and cream layers can work if the wine has some sweeter, rounded notes.