The first time I had Peroni was in Boston while picking up my sister from college. My parents and I had walked the Freedom Trail and took a detour for some dinner in Little Italy. While most think that wine should be the standard drink of choice when in an Italian restaurant I have new for you. Have you ever tried a beer with your pasta? Normally, I stick with my favorite dish Fettuccine Alfredo, but that day a bowtie pasta with Vodka sauce caught my eye. Taking a quick look at the beverages Peroni seemed to be the best fit. After all it is brewed in Italy and I was in “little Italy” enjoying a nice Italian dish.

Fast forward a year to yesterday when I went attended a dinner party. The host prepared a wonderful meal of spaghetti and with meat sauce. I was responsible for beverages so what do you think I purchased? Peroni!!!

The back label says that it is the “No. 1 premium Italian beer” that has “an intensely crisp and refreshing taste with an unmistakable touch of Italian style.” I’m not sure what the “unmistakable style” was, but the rest of the quote was dead on. This beer went amazingly well with the pastas I had on both occasions. There is great carbonation to lift away medium-heavy sauces and cleans the palate for the next bite. It is very clear almost to the point of being mesmerizing. The aroma is of a classic lager/pilsner. Light malts, slight hints of sulfur from the yeast, and a mild spicy hop presence. The mouthfeel is similar to Pilsner Urquell and the finish is dry.

Forget ordering wine with my Italian dishes, I’m going straight for the Peroni. It was the perfect way to round out my meal and the last sip was the perfect exit.

ABV: 5.1%

Grade: A-