Grosjean Pinot Noir

For: Mushroom, alla Vodka, Carbonara, Pesto, Alfredo

Versatile and easy-going is a hallmark of Pinot Noir. The thing is, depending on where it's grown it can either be thin, too full, shrill, or too ripe. This one from the Valle d'Aoste in way northwestern Italy is the Goldilocks of Pinot Noir.

Its tannins are soft enough to pair well with the sometimes-spicy heat of alla Vodka; its earthy underbrush notes mirror the savory flavor of mushrooms; its bright red fruit won't overpower the basil in pesto or clash with cheese; and its fresh acidity is excellent with salty pancetta. Talk about a win-win!