Pasta and wine - two timeless culinary icons that, when paired just right, create a little bit of magic on your plate and in your glass. Think of it as a dance; the pasta takes the lead with its sauce and texture, and the wine follows, complementing every move with its rich notes and balanced flavors.
But here’s the fun part: not all wine works with every pasta dish. It’s not about choosing the fanciest bottle or sticking to the same old pairings - it’s about finding that perfect match where the wine amplifies the flavors of the pasta and vice versa.
In this blog, we will discuss the art of pasta and wine pairing and some of the best combinations for your next dinner party (or weeknight meal).
Classic Pasta And Wine Pairings by Sauce Type
When it comes to pairing wine with pasta, the sauce often takes center stage. Different sauces bring distinct flavors, and choosing the right wine can either elevate or overshadow the dish.
Tomato-Based Sauces

Think of your favorite marinara, arrabbiata, or Bolognese. These sauces are acidic, and their vibrant flavors call for a bold red wine to complement their tangy nature. A classic Sangiovese or Chianti is your best bet. These Italian reds boast bright acidity and a touch of earthiness, making them the perfect companion for tomato-heavy dishes.
Cream-Based Sauces
Creamy sauces like Alfredo or carbonara are all about richness. To balance their velvety texture, opt for a buttery Chardonnay or a light red like Pinot Noir. These wines cut through the creaminess without overpowering the dish, creating a harmonious blend.
Pesto or Herb-Based Sauces
The herbaceous, nutty flavors of pesto shine when paired with a crisp white like Sauvignon Blanc. The wine’s grassy and citrusy notes accentuate the fresh basil and garlic in the sauce, making every bite feel light and refreshing.
Seafood Pasta
Whether it’s spaghetti alle vongole or linguine with prawns, seafood pasta pairs wonderfully with crisp, mineral-driven whites like Vermentino or a light rosé. These wines enhance the delicate flavors of the seafood without overwhelming them.
Spicy or Unique Flavors
For dishes with a spicy kick or unconventional ingredients, you’ll need a versatile wine that can handle bold flavors. Slightly sweet Rieslings or effervescent Lambruscos work beautifully here, balancing the heat while adding a touch of complexity.
Considering the Pasta Type
While the sauce is crucial, the type of pasta itself plays a role in pairing it with wine. The texture and weight of the pasta can influence how the wine interacts with the dish.
Delicate Pastas
Angel hair or capellini pairs well with light-bodied wines like Pinot Grigio or a soft rosé. These wines won’t overpower the pasta’s delicate structure.
Hearty Pastas
Chunkier varieties like rigatoni or pappardelle demand a fuller-bodied wine, such as a bold Cabernet Sauvignon or a rich Syrah, to stand up to their robust texture.
Stuffed Pastas
Ravioli or tortellini with meaty fillings often pair beautifully with medium-bodied reds like Barbera or Grenache.
A Perfect Wine Pairing Experience at The Riddler
For some of the best wine and pasta pairing experiences in Bangkok, The Riddler is the place to be. The Riddler is a Japanese gastronomic dining and wine bar tucked away in the heart of the city and offers an incredible wine-pairing menu. We are famed for our unique fusion menu and expertly curated selection of old and new world wines consisting of over 200+ labels.
Here’s a glimpse of some of our crowd-favorite pasta dishes and the best wines to pair with them.
Cold Pasta

Our Cappellini cold pasta with a sauce made from Shiro Dashi, Shirasu (baby sardines), and dry-aged Korean oysters is enhanced by the flavors of Italian parsley and mint. It’s a light and refreshing dish that pairs exquisitely with a crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or a light rosé. The bright citrus and herbal qualities of Sauvignon Blanc enhance the delicate flavors of the seafood topping (Madai, Aka Ebi, Ikura, and Bafun Uni) and the umami taste of the wakame gel.
Cheese Pasta

If you love all things cheese, you will love this dish. Our Linguine with 5 Cheese (Gorgonzola, Parmesan, Mozzarella, Smoke, Cheddar) sauce, topped with cheese espuma and served with Shirasu (baby sardines) goes brilliantly with a full-bodied white wine like Chardonnay or a soft, fruity red like Pinot Noir. Chardonnay’s creamy, buttery notes mirror the richness of the cheeses, while Pinot Noir is a fresh contrast to cut through the dish's heaviness.
Whether you’re a seasoned wine enthusiast or new to the world of pairings, our in-house sommelier will be on hand to guide diners toward the perfect wine and pasta pairing or any other dishes from our menu that speak to your whimsy.
Ready For An Unforgettable Dining Experience?
Pairing wine with pasta isn’t just about food - it’s about creating moments. Whether you’re hosting friends, treating yourself, or exploring new flavors, the right wine can elevate your meal from delicious to downright unforgettable.
Ready to experience the magic for yourself? Visit The Riddler to discover how the pros do it. Book your table, sip, savor, and let the pairing journey begin.
Because life’s too short for boring pasta - and even shorter for bad wine. Cheers!
Comments