What foods pair best with Chianti Classico?

Chianti Classico shines with Lasagne Bolognese; its structure matches the dish without overpowering it.

How should I serve Chianti Classico?

Serve just below room temperature (around 60–64°F) to keep fruit lively and tannins smooth.

When should I avoid pouring Chianti Classico?

Skip it with very spicy curries, desserts—those pairings tend to clash with its structure.

Wineotter

Red

Chianti Classico

High-acid red with sour-cherry and herbal character; handles tomato and dairy richness.

Updated Jan 14, 2026

Body: mediumAcidity: highTannin: mediumSweetness: dry Grape: Sangiovese Region: Tuscany, Italy

About This Style

Chianti Classico is a red built on Sangiovese from Tuscany, Italy. Expect high-acid red with sour-cherry and herbal character; handles tomato and dairy richness.

Pairing Principles

Acid matches tomato-based sauces.
Moderate tannin manages beef and dairy without overwhelming them.
Avoid: very spicy curries, desserts.

Signature Aromas

cherryherbalspice

Plays Nicely With

Italian

Lasagne Bolognese

Chianti Classico's acidity lifts tomato sauce while moderate tannin frames beef and cheese.

Italian

Margherita Pizza

Bright Sangiovese syncs with tomato and basil while tannin respects fresh mozzarella.

Steer Clear Of

very spicy curriesdesserts

Label Inspiration

Fontodi Chianti Classico 2021

Tuscany, Italy • classic

Sour cherry, tobacco, and savory herbs with vibrant acidity.

Castello di Ama Chianti Classico 2020

Tuscany, Italy • splurge

Black cherry, violet, and graphite with polished tannins and long finish.

Featured Dishes

Italian-American

Chicken Parmesan

Sangiovese acidity cuts through breading and cheese while matching tomato sauce.

Italian-American

Eggplant Parmesan

Sangiovese acidity brightens tomato sauce while tannin handles baked cheese.

Italian

Gnocchi alla Sorrentina

Sangiovese acidity lifts tomato sauce while soft tannin respects melted mozzarella.

Italian

Lasagne Bolognese

Chianti Classico's acidity lifts tomato sauce while moderate tannin frames beef and cheese.

Italian

Margherita Pizza

Bright Sangiovese syncs with tomato and basil while tannin respects fresh mozzarella.

FAQ

What foods pair best with Chianti Classico?: Chianti Classico shines with Lasagne Bolognese; its structure matches the dish without overpowering it.
How should I serve Chianti Classico?: Serve just below room temperature (around 60–64°F) to keep fruit lively and tannins smooth.
When should I avoid pouring Chianti Classico?: Skip it with very spicy curries, desserts—those pairings tend to clash with its structure.