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Pairing Wine With Osso Bucco

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Hailing from Milan, Osso Bucco is a tantalizing Italian specialty that captivates with its rich and robust flavors. This iconic dish showcases tender cross-cut veal shanks, slowly braised to perfection in a luscious combination of white wine, aromatic vegetables, and tomatoes. The marrow within the bone infuses the sauce with a velvety texture that elevates the dish to new heights.

The slow-cooking process allows the meat to become fall-off-the-bone tender, while the sauce becomes deeply infused with the flavors of the spices. Osso Bucco is often served atop a bed of saffron-infused risotto, creating a delightful marriage of textures and tastes. Pairing wine with osso Bucco calls for a robust and full-bodied red wine that can stand up to the dish’s hearty flavors.

Consider opting for a classic Italian red, such as a Barolo, Barbaresco, or a Chianti, as their bold tannins and rich fruitiness complement the succulent veal shanks and the flavorful tomato-based sauce. The wine’s depth and complexity will accentuate the dish’s richness, creating a harmonious and memorable culinary experience.

Wine Characteristics To Pair With Osso Bucco

Red Wine Characteristics

Characteristic Detail
Acidity Medium – High
Tannins Medium – High
Fruitiness Medium 
Spiciness Medium
Body Full

Best Red Wine to Pair with Osso Bucco

Barbaresco

Barbaresco is a classic pairing with Osso Bucco. It’s bold red fruit and strong, but supple tannins make it a perfect match for this flavorful dish.

Chianti

This classic Italian wine is bold on fruit, spices, and herbs, making it a perfect partner to Italian cuisine, and Osso Bucco is no exception.

Barolo

Barolo is full bodied with rigid tannins, but its fruity notes and floral aromatics will bring balance to the spices in the dish.   

Tempranillo

Tempranillo is an excellent choice with tomato-based dishes. Its notes of cherry, tomato, and leather bring a complementary savory flavor that harmonizes with the flavors of the Osso Bucco

Sangiovese

Another Italian wine for an Italian dish, Sangiovese has cherry and berry notes with hints of spice and herbs that work well with the savory profile of mushroom risotto. 

Best Wine To Drink With Osso Bucco

The best wine pairing for Osso Bucco is a hearty and robust red. The bold flavors of the dish require a wine that can hold its own.   

  • Chianti
  • Sangiovese
  • Tempranillo
  • Barolo
  • Barbaresco