Prosciutto is a renowned Italian dry-cured ham that has earned a place in the hearts of food enthusiasts worldwide. Crafted from the hind leg of the pig and aged for several months, prosciutto boasts a delicate and velvety texture with a rich, savory flavor. Its thin slices are often served as an appetizer, wrapped around fruits, on top of fresh bread, or accompanied by cheese, making it a versatile delicacy.
When pairing wine with prosciutto, opt for wines that complement its delicate flavors and saltiness. A crisp, dry white wine provides a refreshing contrast to the richness of prosciutto, while enhancing its subtle sweetness. Additionally, a light and fruity red wine can also be a wonderful choice, as its bright acidity and berry notes harmonize well with the savory ham. Rosé wines can also be a delightful option, as their balanced fruitiness and dry finish create a pleasant pairing that accentuates the flavors of prosciutto without overwhelming its subtleties.
Wine Characteristics To Pair With Prosciutto
White Wine Characteristics |
|
Characteristic | Detail |
Acidity | High |
Tannins | Low |
Fruitiness | Medium – high |
Spiciness | Low |
Body | Light – Medium |
Red Wine Characteristics |
|
Characteristic | Detail |
Acidity | Medium – High |
Tannins | Low |
Fruitiness | Medium – high |
Spiciness | Low |
Body | Light – Medium |
Best Red Wine To Pair With Prosciutto
Sangiovese
Sangiovese and prosciutto is a classic pairing. This red brings bold cherry flavor and refreshing acidity to complement the ham.
Barbera
Barbera is a cherry-forward red with notes of pepper and licorice. It’s fuller in body, but the acidity makes for a great prosciutto pairing.
Lambrusco
This sparkling red acts as a great palate cleanser and the bold berry flavor is a lovely counterpart to the savory ham.
Rosé
Rosé also offers strong berry notes and strong acidity, and the sparkling variety brings a welcomed effervescence to cut through the salty, fatty ham.
Best White Wine To Pair With Prosciutto
Pinot Grigio
Pinot Grigio is crisp and dry with brilliant acidity. It is sure to refresh the palate between bites of the salty Prosciutto.
Sauvignon Blanc
Sauvignon Blanc is known for its effervescent acidity, stone fruit flavors, and herbal notes, making it a great companion to prosciutto wrapped melon.
Chenin Blanc
This versatile white has crisp acidity and notes of yellow apple, pear, and quince. Choose the dry variety for an easy, delicious pairing with prosciutto
Best Wine To Drink With Prosciutto
The best wine pairing with Prosciutto will be a fruit-forward with refreshing acidity to complement the savory, salty flavor of the meat.
- Pinot Grigio
- Sangiovese
- Sauvignon Blanc
- Rosé