Italy is synonymous with good food and good wine. No matter what region you’re travelling in, you’ll find some of the finest cuisines and wines known to man, and a local population who are passionate and knowledgeable about both. The delicate combinations that the food and drink can produce can truly be a revelation for visitors to the country. When paired, remarkable things can happen on your palate. This dedication to the sensuous pleasures is perhaps nowhere truer than in the region of Tuscany, and within that region nowhere outdoes Chianti. Food pairing menus that incorporate the wines and food of Chianti can pretty much do no wrong! What is a Chianti Food Pairing? For those who aren’t familiar with the concept, chefs and sommeliers can really work wonders with your taste buds by creating a combination menu that takes the finest reds, whites and rosés and matches them with food that has just the right flavour combination to wow you. A Chianti food pairing is likely to be perfect for those who enjoy the classic hearty flavours of Italy, as the wines of this region (for which they are named) go perfectly with these types of dishes. Below are some of the very best combinations of wine and foods that you can enjoy on a tour of the region. Roast Meats Roast meat, such as lamb, is a classic combination that you will see on many a Chianti food pairing menu, and it really works. The wine can hold its own against the strong, punchy flavours of roast meat. Giving the meat a generous rubbing with spice and herbs works really well as the wine of the region is so robust. Lasagne The red sauce of lasagne is perhaps the most widely known and appreciated pairing for the wine of this region. Chianti Classico, with its higher percentage of Sangiovese grapes, is the one to go for in nearly all cases, although the other versions are very nice in themselves. The carbohydrate-dense, rich sauce and heavy meats of this dish can make finding a wine to match quite tricky, but Classico, with its freshness and acidity, acts almost as a palate cleanser between bites – making each mouthful feel like the first. Chicken Parmesan The trouble with chicken parmesan can be that it sometimes just feels too much. It’s a rich mixture of breaded chicken, strong cheese and deep red tomato sauce. The subtle flavour of the meat can easily be lost. Thankfully, Chianti Classico does a great job of bringing out each and every flavour of the meal because of its acidity, so this dish will taste better than ever before. Find the Time to Wine and Dine There are several operators who can take you to experience a Chianti food pairing menu while on a tour of the region. Make sure you book with a reputable tour guide who knows the area, its cuisine and its wine just as well as a local, and shares that same passion and fervour that you’ll be sure to find so charming. Author Plate Mauro Bramante is the Director of WalkAbout Florence, an independent business offering unforgettable day trips from Florence including Vintage Vespa tours, cooking classes, andChianti food pairing excursions. Wherever and whatever you want to explore Mauro's company promises excitement, adventure and above all, fun. If you're keen to experience the magic of Italy with the help of some passionate and knowledgeable tour guides, look no further than WalkAbout Florence for your next getaway.
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