Fish soup is a dish that comes from the Italian cibo povero tradition – made by sailors with the less valuable or leftover fish that got caught in their nets. It has become a sought- after delicacy, and practically every region overlooking the sea in Italy has its own version of the recipe, which often varies from province to province and even from municipality to municipality. Among the best known recipes are the cacciucco livornese, served over bread croutons; the brodetto anconetano, which calls for 13 types of fish for 13 diners in memory of the Last Supper; the recipes from the Abruzzo coast; the Sicilian zuppa di pesce, enriched with black olives and capers; and then there’s the quatàra recipe from Porto Cesareo, which takes its name from the copper cauldron in which it is traditionally cooked. Usually zuppa di pesce has a tomato-based broth, but there are many variations without it, too! The best wine selection to pair with zuppa di pesce may change depending on the recipe, but any of our suggestions will be a winning option no matter what!
White wines for fish soup
Verdicchio dei Castelli di Jesi Classico Riserva Vigna il Cantico della Figura 2016 - Andrea Felici
Verdicchio is a classic pairing for the brodetti from the Marche region. This particular cru, produced by Andrea Felici in the territory of Apiro, is among the best of its denomination. Try it at least once.
Offida Pecorino Merlettaie 2018 - Ciù Ciù
Autochthonous Pecorino grapes are widespread between Marche and Abruzzo, and they give white wines a certain character with the right body to accompany Central Italian-style zuppa di pesce. Ciù Ciù is also certified organic.
Grechetto Fiorfiore 2017 - Roccafiore Winery
This warm and soft white comes from Umbria and it is characterized by intense scents of tropical and citrus fruits with herbs. The refinement of wood gives it a creamy and enveloping taste, refreshed by a final savory note.
Vermentino di Gallura Superiore Monteoro 2018 - Sella&Mosca
A Vermentino that smells of the sun and sea with a fruity flavor and intriguing nuances of Mediterranean herbs. What could be better to go with a white version of zuppa di pesce (without the tomatoes)?
Greco di Tufo Quattroventi 2017 - Petilia
This year, Petilia has produced a wine full of grit and character with the careful maceration of the grapes’ skins. It smells of orange blossom, hawthorn, and it has a fresh and full-bodied flavor with an almond finish.
Rosé wines for fish soup
Cerasuolo d'Abruzzo Gianni Masciarelli 2018 - Masciarelli
This is a very pleasant Cerasuolo with hints of fresh cherry and currant. A smooth taste that blends well with the slightly spicy taste of certain recipes of zuppa di pesce.
Susumaniello Rosato Le Rotaie 2018 - I Pastini
A pink wine with a captivating and delicate taste, born in Valle d'Itria – the Apulian area with soil that creates the most delicate whites and rosés. Produced with the rare native grape variety of susumaniello, this wine smells of roses and strawberries.
Idea Rosa di Primitivo 2018 - Varvaglione
Juicy, elegant, intriguing and recently released on the market. The novelty of Varvaglione is a pink wine with a strong Apulian character, which will win you over with its freshness and ease of drinking.
Red wines for fish soup
Lake Caldaro Classico Superiore Leuchtenberg 2018 - Caldaro
Can a red wine from the mountains accompany a seafood dish? When it comes from Lake Caldaro, there is no doubt about it. Fragrant and spicy.
Pinot Noir Sciaranera 2016 - Duca di Salaparuta
Pinot noir in its simple, everyday version. An excellent companion to zuppa di pesce with a stronger flavor.