We made this delicious dish on a beautiful warm evening. While the sauce was simmering and we were enjoying a glass of chilled Pinot Grigio, we discussed what we should have with the pasta.

We felt that the Picchi-pacchi sauce with the addition of anchovies and olives needed a delicious fruity-style red, which would be in harmony with the savoury richness of the sauce.

What better way then than to choose an Italian-style red. We had in our cellar the very reasonable locally made Terra Del Cappo Sangiovese along with a Chianti Classico from Italy. Both proved a fine match for the pasta.

Terra Del Cappo Sangiovese 2004
R65.50

Terra Del Cappo, which translates into 'Soils of the Cape', is the Italian varietal range produced at L'Ormarins in Franschhoek. Terra del Capo was the vision of the late Anthonij Rupert, who through his travels, fell in love with Italian varietals and their ability to pair with so many foods. Sangiovese is one of Italy's most enjoyed red cultivars and it offers medium tannins which is enhanced by gentle oaking.

This Sangiovese has a subtle hint of smokiness combined with earthy minerality and rich fruit flavours such as prunes and red cherries with a soft elegant finish.

Casa Emma Chianti Classico DOCG 2005
R162

Stefano and Lorenzo Gaba of Melgab International have been importing fine Italian wines into South Africa for many years. I recently had the privilege of tasting their latest selection which included this delicious Chianti. Casa Emma can be found in San Donato, Poggio which is surrounded by beautiful hills and is in the heart of the Classic Chiantishire.

This Chianti Classico made largely from Sangiovese with a small percentage of Malvasia and Canaiolo has fragrant aromas of cherries, liquorice and subtle woodsmoke. The palate follows, offering rich complex flavours of red and black cherries with fresh acidity and firm, yet structured tannins.