Some pairings just feel effortless — comforting, elevated, and made to be enjoyed slowly around the table.
Our Intrigue Wines Chardonnay paired with a classic black pepper carbonara is one of those combinations we keep coming back to. Rich, creamy pasta meets a wine that’s fresh, zesty, and beautifully balanced — creating a meal that feels both indulgent and wonderfully simple.
This has quickly become a favourite pairing, and we’re excited to share it with you so you can bring a little winery-inspired comfort into your own kitchen.
Why This Pairing Works
The Intrigue Wines Chardonnay is Chablis-inspired and minimally oaked, allowing the wine’s crisp acidity and mineral character to shine.
That freshness cuts beautifully through the richness of the carbonara, while subtle citrus and bright structure lift the creamy sauce and black pepper spice. It’s the kind of pairing where every sip resets your palate — inviting you back for another bite.
Simple ingredients, thoughtful preparation, and the right glass of wine — that’s where the magic happens.
Black Pepper Carbonara Recipe
Ingredients
- 300g bucatini or rigatoni
- 150g guanciale (rind removed), diced into small cubes
(pancetta works as a substitute) - 1 whole egg + 3 egg yolks
- 100g freshly grated Pecorino Romano
- 1.5 tsp black pepper, coarsely ground
- 1 tsp salt
- 1 tbsp olive oil (optional)
Directions
- Render the guanciale
Place the diced guanciale in a cold pan and cook over medium-low heat until crispy and golden brown. Remove from heat. (Optional: add olive oil.) - Prepare the sauce
In a bowl, whisk the egg and egg yolks. Mix in the grated Pecorino Romano and black pepper until a thick paste forms. - Cook the pasta
Boil pasta in lightly salted water until al dente. Reserve about 1 cup of pasta water before draining. - Combine
Transfer the cooked pasta to the pan with the guanciale and rendered fat, tossing to coat. - Create the creamy sauce
With the pan off the heat, add the egg and cheese mixture plus a splash of reserved pasta water. Toss vigorously until a silky sauce forms, adding more pasta water as needed. (Keeping the pan off the heat prevents the eggs from scrambling.) - Serve
Plate immediately and garnish with extra Pecorino and freshly cracked black pepper.
Bring the Pairing to Life
Wine and food pairings are about more than matching flavours — they’re about creating moments that feel memorable, relaxed, and easy to share. The creamy comfort of black pepper carbonara paired with the fresh, mineral-driven character of Intrigue Wines Chardonnay is a beautiful reminder that simple ingredients can create something truly special when enjoyed together.
Whether you’re exploring new Chardonnay food pairing ideas, planning a cozy dinner at home, or looking for fresh wine and pasta pairing inspiration, this classic combination is one you’ll want to return to again and again. And for those looking to discover more Okanagan wine experiences, a visit to Intrigue Wines offers the opportunity to explore thoughtful wines crafted to elevate everyday meals and meaningful gatherings alike.
Because at the heart of every great pairing is connection — good food, great wine, and time well spent around the table.
