What Wine to Pair with Osso Buco?

A flagship dish of Italian cuisine, osso buco is a convivial meal that features cross-cut veal shanks slowly braised in a rich sauce made of tomatoes, white wine, chicken broth, and vegetables. Its creamy texture, flavorful sauce, and aromatic depth call for a wine that enhances its complexity without overpowering it. Whether you opt for French or Italian wines, red or white, or even more creative pairings, the goal is to find the perfect match to elevate this traditional recipe. Follow our expert advice to create a delicious food and wine pairing for your next osso buco.

What Red Wine to Drink with Osso Buco?

When osso buco is cooked with tomato-based sauce, red wines are a natural fit. Look for reds with soft tannins, good structure, and a touch of acidity. On the Italian side, Chianti Classico or Montepulciano d'Abruzzo offer red fruit notes, velvety tannins, and freshness that complement the tomato sauce beautifully.

Prefer French wines? A red AOC Côtes-du-Rhône or AOC Châteauneuf-du-Pape, with black fruit jam notes and a round mouthfeel, will pair well with tender veal shanks. For a bolder match, try an aged Bandol red made from Mourvèdre, known for its silky texture and wild berry intensity—ideal for a sunny and bold pairing. These wines harmonize well with veal and enhance the depth of tomato-based sauces.

What White Wine to Drink with Osso Buco?

Though less expected, white wines can create original and elegant pairings—provided you choose full-bodied, well-balanced cuvées. For osso buco alla Milanese (without tomato, made with chicken broth and citrus zest), white wines become a standout choice.

• AOC Châteauneuf-du-Pape Blanc: full and floral, with a velvety texture and aromatic depth.
• AOC Patrimonio Blanc: a lively Corsican white with citrus freshness and a rich mouthfeel.
• AOC Alsace Pinot Gris: mildly sweet with stone fruit notes, perfect for the creamy veal texture.

What Rosé or Sparkling Wines to Drink with Osso Buco?

For adventurous palates, rosé and sparkling wines offer creative alternatives—especially if the recipe is lighter. A rosé from Bandol or AOC Coteaux d’Aix-en-Provence, with their red fruit aromas and refreshing mouthfeel, pair nicely with a summer version of osso buco.

As for sparkling wines, a Crémant de Loire or rosé Champagne brut with fine bubbles can brighten up this rich dish—especially if served warm with seasonal vegetables or slightly chilled. These pairings bring freshness and vibrancy, perfect for festive occasions.

Top Wine Pairings for Osso Buco

• Osso buco alla Milanese (no tomato, with gremolata): Go for a white wine like Pinot Gris or a Corsican Vermentino.
• Tomato-based Osso buco, slow-cooked: Choose a southern red like Bandol, Montepulciano, or a structured Languedoc red.
• Osso buco with potatoes: A full-bodied red AOC Côtes du Rhône with fruit-forward notes will be a great match.

Osso buco is a traditional Italian dish with many variations, and the wine pairing should reflect its preparation. Southern French or Italian red wines are often the safest and most rewarding choices, but bold whites, elegant rosés, and surprising sparkling wines can also uncover a new dimension to this beloved recipe. Explore our selection at Avenue des Vins to find the perfect bottle that will elevate your osso buco and take your taste buds on a memorable journey!