Discovering Calabria Through Librandi Wines

This year, I embarked on a delicious adventure thanks to the “Pasta Queen“! Her show introduced me to the wonders of Calabrian cuisine, and I was instantly hooked. Spicy Calabrian chili peppers? Obsessed! Creamy Calabrian pasta? Delizioso! Of course, I needed the perfect wine pairing, and that’s where Librandi came in.

What are the characteristics of Calabrian cuisine?

Calabrian cuisine is characterized by bold flavors and high-quality local ingredients, reflecting its agricultural heritage and coastal influences. Key features include the prominence of spicy peppers, particularly Calabrian chili, simple and fresh components like vegetables, seafood, homemade pasta, and preserved foods such as ‘nduja. Fresh herbs enhance the dishes, and local cheese varieties play a significant role. The cuisine celebrates rustic, hearty meals and is often accompanied by notable regional wines, showcasing the region’s rich culinary traditions.

Librandi’s Calabrian wines were the ideal complement to my culinary exploration. The minerality of their Bianco was a revelation, and it sparked a desire to delve deeper into this fascinating region. While I sadly missed Paolo Librandi’s recent visit to the US, I was lucky enough to sample some of their incredible wines. Now, I’m dreaming of visiting Calabria and experiencing firsthand the magic of their vineyards and cuisine.

About Librandi Wines from Calabria

Librandi is a family-run winery with a rich history dating back to 1953. Today, the passionate siblings Raffaele, Paolo, Francesco, and Teresa Librandi lead the company, crafting exceptional wines that capture the essence of Calabria.

Librandi focuses primarily on native grape varieties like Gaglioppo (red) and Greco (white). Their dedication to the land and its traditions shines through in every bottle, offering a true taste of Southern Italy.

Taste of Librandi: Exploring the Wines

Here are some of the standout Librandi wines I had the pleasure of tasting:

Duca San Felice Cirò Riserva Rosso Classico Superiore DOC

This powerful red, made from Gaglioppo grapes, is a testament to Librandi‘s commitment to quality. Aged in steel and concrete, it boasts complex flavors and a long aging potential.

Segno Librandi Cirò Rosso Classico DOC

Another Gaglioppo-based wine, this red offers a more approachable expression of the grape with its pleasant intensity and aromas of Mediterranean herbs.

Segno Librandi Cirò Bianco DOC

This vibrant white, crafted from Greco Bianco grapes, is a beautiful expression of Calabria’s coastal terroir. Expect bright acidity and refreshing minerality.

Critone Calabria Bianco IGT

This intriguing blend of Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc showcases Calabria’s ability to produce world-class wines with international appeal.

Segno Librandi Cirò Rosato DOC

This delightful rosé made with Gaglioppo captures the essence of the Calabrian seaside with its vibrant fruit and refreshing character.

Why You Should Try Librandi Wines

Librandi offers a unique opportunity to explore the diverse flavors of Calabria. Whether you’re a fan of bold reds, crisp whites, or refreshing rosés, there’s a Librandi wine waiting to be discovered. So, raise a glass to Calabria and experience the passion and tradition of Librandi! Learn more about Librandi here.

Recipe of calabrian creamy pasta

Ingredients:

12 oz (340g) pasta (such as fettuccine or linguine)
1 lb (450g) shrimp, peeled and deveined
2 tbsp olive oil
4 cloves garlic, minced
1 small onion, finely chopped
1/2 cup (120ml) heavy cream
1/2 cup (120ml) chicken or vegetable broth
1/4 cup (60g) grated Parmesan cheese
2 tbsp Calabrian chili paste (adjust to taste)
1/4 cup (60ml) white wine (optional)
Salt and pepper to taste
Fresh parsley, chopped (for garnish)
Lemon wedges (for serving)

Directions:

Cook the Pasta: Bring a large pot of salted water to a boil. Cook the pasta according to the package instructions until al dente. Drain and set aside.
Prepare the Shrimp: In a large skillet, heat 1 tablespoon of olive oil over medium-high heat. Add the shrimp and cook until pink and opaque, about 2-3 minutes per side. Remove the shrimp from the skillet and set aside.
Sauté Aromatics: In the same skillet, add the remaining tablespoon of olive oil. Add the garlic and onion, and sauté until fragrant and translucent, about 3-4 minutes.
Make the Sauce: Reduce the heat to medium. Add the Calabrian chili paste and stir to combine. Pour in the white wine (if using) and let it simmer for 1-2 minutes until slightly reduced. Add the chicken or vegetable broth and heavy cream, stirring to combine. Let the sauce simmer for 5-7 minutes until it thickens slightly.
Combine Pasta and Shrimp: Add the cooked pasta and shrimp to the skillet, tossing to coat everything in the sauce. Stir in the grated Parmesan cheese and season with salt and pepper to taste.
Serve: Garnish with chopped fresh parsley and serve with lemon wedges on the side.