At Spesso, where Italian cuisine meets Swedish ingredients with a twist, the wine list is more than just a collection of bottles – it’s an invitation to a personal wine experience. Janni, Spesso’s passionate head sommelier, shares how the wine list is crafted to complement the food and elevate the dining experience.
Spesso’s wine list is playful and approachable, offering something for everyone. It not only includes French and Italian wines but also a diversity of selections from different regions. “We’ve chosen not to limit ourselves to Italian wines. Instead, we focus on wines that truly pair well with the food we serve,” Janni explains. The philosophy behind the wine list is to create an inviting and extensive selection where each bottle becomes part of a dialogue that enhances the dining experience.
For Janni, it’s not just about the technical pairing of wine with a dish but about creating a holistic experience where the wine’s flavor harmonizes with the food. “The wine list is structured to allow each guest to guide their own tasting experience. The common thread in our selection is classic, with influences from both the old and new world, and occasionally, you’ll find wine from South Africa that pairs perfectly with our dishes,” Janni explains.
As autumn arrives, we adjust the wine list to match the season’s heartier flavors and deeper tones. For example, there are Barolos and Brunellos that pair beautifully with autumn dishes. “We offer many white wines that are popular because they pair well with our food, while also introducing new and interesting options to continually surprise and delight our guests,” Janni adds.
When it comes to pairing wine with food, Janni recommends a few standout combinations. Lobster ravioli with a light Burgundy is one of the most appreciated pairings, as are scallops with a semi-dry Riesling. “Daring to choose something beyond traditional options can open up new tasting experiences for our guests,” she says.
Janni is particularly proud of the wines from Domaine de la Romanée-Conti (DRC), which are among the most exclusive on the list. But the pride extends throughout the entire wine selection. “We have wines you won’t find anywhere else. It’s important to us to offer a unique beverage experience that complements our food,” Janni explains.
A common mistake is skimping on wine and simply opting for the house selection. Janni recommends taking the time to choose a wine that truly complements the food, rather than going for the quickest option.
Visitors to Spesso are encouraged not to hesitate when asking for help in choosing a wine. “Our staff is here to guide and help find the perfect wine for your meal. Don’t hesitate to ask for recommendations – we’re passionate about enhancing our guests’ wine experience and look forward to sharing our best tips,” Janni says.
So how would the wine experience at Spesso be described in a sentence? “Uplifting,” Janni answers with a warm smile. At Spesso, each wine choice is a chance to elevate the dining experience and create a moment of enjoyment with wines selected with love and care.