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The best red wines for Sunday lunch
The ideal wine for a convivial Sunday lunch with family and friends is something traditional and uncomplicated, with strong roots in the territory and a comforting sense of place. A young and fruity Chianti Classico that is pungent on the palate but gentle on the nose is an unmissable and comforting option for those who love Tuscany. Some good alternatives in the region are Nobile di Montepulciano or Brunello di Montalcino, wines that are more structured but guaranteed to be a success. For fans of autumn, Nebbiolo Langhe is an excellent choice with its bright floral bouquet. Those looking for a comforting embrace from their Sunday lunch will love a seductive Valpolicella Ripasso or even a great Amarone della Valpolicella with a full and vigorous flavour. Here are some other examples: Montefalco Sagrantino, Barbaresco, Barolo, Nebbiolo, Lagrein, Etna Rosso, and Pinot Noir.
Pairings
Pairings are often subjective, but taking inspiration from the links between regional cuisine and local wines is a simple yet effective pairing method. Generally speaking, wines with a high level of tannin are suitable pairings for grilled meat-based dishes, while those with less tannin and more fruity hints pair well with cured meats and boiled meats. For example, you could pair Chianti with a succulent Chianina beef platter, while Brunello goes well with stews, mushrooms, and truffles. Ripasso della Valpolicella is a wine that can accompany the whole meal and pairs perfectly with lasagne or a roast dinner with potatoes. On the other hand, Amarone requires more structured dishes like game or mature cheeses. Nebbiolo is synonymous with elegance, and is ideal for vegetable soups and the traditional bollito misto stew.