How to Pair San't Anselmo Wines Like a Pro
So, last Tuesday if you where here we talked a bit about a couple of our favourite wines of Tenuto Dello Jato from their Sant Anselmo line. if you're anything like me, you don’t need much of an excuse to pop open a bottle of wine. But when that bottle is from the San't Anselmo line by Tenute dello Jato, pairing it with the perfect dish becomes an art form worth savouring. In Sicily, food and wine are like a passionate couple—each bringing out the best in the other. So, let’s dive into the delizioso world of food and wine pairing, Sicilian-style, with San't Anselmo as our star.
Ready to impress at your next dinner party (or just treat yourself to a culinary delight)? Let’s go!
San't Anselmo Nero d’Avola: Bold, Rich, and Perfect for a Hearty Dish
Pasta alla Norma, we’ll dive into how to make this exquisite dish on our next Sicilian Kitchen post next week. so make sure to tune back in.
When it comes to Nero d’Avola, think big, bold flavors. This wine is like the James Bond of reds—smooth, complex, with just the right amount of intrigue. It’s perfect for those hearty Sicilian dishes that fill your soul as much as your stomach.
Pairing Ideas:
Pasta alla Norma: This quintessential Sicilian dish—loaded with eggplant, tomato, and ricotta salata—demands an equally robust companion. The dark fruit and spice notes in the Nero d’Avola balance beautifully with the earthy richness of the eggplant and the tangy ricotta.
Sicilian-style Grilled Lamb Chops: Grilled lamb, marinated with rosemary and garlic, pairs like a dream with the Nero d’Avola’s depth of flavor. Its subtle spice and bold tannins cut through the richness of the lamb, creating a match made in foodie heaven.
Arancini: Who doesn’t love these golden, fried rice balls filled with meat or cheese? The wine’s tannins complement the crispy exterior, while the ripe fruit flavors enhance the savory filling. Pop, sip, repeat.
Pro Tip: When in doubt, pair the Nero d’Avola with anything grilled, roasted, or drenched in a rich tomato sauce. You won’t go wrong!
San't Anselmo Grillo: Fresh, Zesty, and a Match for All Things Light and Bright
Classic Seafood Risotto
Grillo is the life of the party—the refreshing, citrusy white wine that feels like a breeze off the Sicilian coast. It’s perfect for lighter dishes and seafood that reflect the island’s bountiful shores. This wine is like a mini-vacation in a bottle.
Pairing Ideas:
Sicilian Caponata: This sweet-and-sour eggplant dish, filled with tomatoes, olives, and capers, pairs perfectly with Grillo. The wine’s bright acidity cuts through the richness of the dish, while its citrus notes mirror the tangy capers. It’s a pairing that’s practically begging for a long, lazy lunch in the sun.
Seafood Risotto: A creamy, delicate seafood risotto (think clams, shrimp, and mussels) loves a crisp white like Grillo. Its lively citrus and mineral notes enhance the freshness of the seafood without overwhelming the dish.
Grilled Swordfish with Lemon and Herbs: If there’s a dish that screams Sicily, it’s grilled swordfish. The light, clean flavors of the fish are perfectly complemented by Grillo’s zesty lemon and floral undertones. It’s like a sunny day at the coast in every bite.
Pro Tip: When pairing Grillo, think seafood, veggies, and anything with a citrusy twist. It’s all about light, fresh flavors that let the wine’s natural brightness shine.
Mastering the Sicilian Art of Food and Wine Pairing
So, what’s the secret to pairing San't Anselmo wines with your favourite Sicilian dishes? Here’s a quick cheat sheet to keep handy:
Match the Intensity: Bold dishes need bold wines. A rich Nero d’Avola can handle the heartiest of Sicilian flair, while a light, zesty Grillo will shine with more delicate, fresh ingredients.
Complement the Flavours: Look for flavour bridges between the food and wine. For example, a dish with lots of citrus or herbs will pair beautifully with Grillo’s bright acidity. Meanwhile, the dark fruit and spice of Nero d’Avola play well with roasted meats or tomato-based sauces.
Consider the Occasion: Planning a casual lunch by the sea? Grillo is your go-to. Hosting a cozy dinner party with friends? Nero d’Avola will bring warmth and richness to the table. And if you're lucky enough to enjoy a Sicilian sunset, either wine will do just fine!
Bringing Sicily to Your Table
At the heart of every great meal in Sicily is the perfect wine pairing, and San't Anselmo wines make it easy to recreate that magic at home. Whether you’re serving a simple plate of pasta or going all out with a multi-course Sicilian feast, these wines bring out the best in every dish.
So, pour yourself a glass of Nero d’Avola or Grillo, set the table with your favourite Sicilian recipes, and let the flavours transport you to a land where food, wine, and joy are never in short supply.
- Your self proclaimed wine connoisseur, Miss Trinacria xx
