Is Chianti really the best pairing?

Question

Does anyone else think that Chianti is a rather odd wine to pair with rare lamb chops and fava beans?

I know that's the famous line, but I thought that Lecter orders lamb while he is in the holding cell. At any rate, I did some more research and it turns out that in the book, he eats the census taker's liver with a big Amarone rather than Chianti. Again, is that really such a good pairing?

Answer 1

Chianti wouldn't be my first choice, but it's not that bad.
Apparently Mr. Lecter hasn't tried a yummy red Zinfandel or a good Red Bordeaux with the dish.
Hmm...Amarone? If he would've done an Oso Buco with the Census taker's shank...?...

Answer 2

I happen to agree with Kathy I would serve it with a Pinot noir (usually served with birds like quail) but a Chianti (best as it can be served with game and birds-very suitable with both) is also suitable, Amarone is a deep red wine that is also suitable (served with roasted meat). In my opinion I think it's more what you particularly prefer rather then whats supposed to be served with a certain dish (although I'm not so bold as to serve a white wine with red meat, to each their own though).

Answer 3

I don't think it's a really odd pairing. I think that Chianti would be well suited to that combination. Other wines that might also do well would be a hearty Shiraz/Shirah and a good quality PInot Noir

Answer 4

I think Amarone is a really hard wine to match with food as it tends to overpower everything.

Answer 5

I would serve a Pinot Noir with lamb. Pinot Noir is a smooth silky red wine that is extremely fruity. It is characterized with aromas and flavors of black cherry or rose petals along with hints of spiciness or herbal qualities. Pinot Noirs are enjoyed for their soft velvety texture. High in alcohol, they are full bodied but not heavy.

Answer 6

goes better with liver and fava beans