There’s something deeply soul-satisfying about digging into a bowl of creamy mac and cheese or peppery cacio e pepe. Let’s face it—cheese and pasta are just better together. The only way to make this combo better? The perfect glass of wine, which has the power to elevate the dish’s flavors, counter its richness (or lightness) and deepens the diner’s overall satisfaction manyfold. As in all food and drink pairings, balance is key. Some cheeses are hit-you-over-the-head rich and salty (hey, Parmigianino Reggiano) while others boast more demure, mild flavors (think fluffy ricotta). Different wines are called for accordingly. When considering what bottle to reach for when you plate your pasta, Hanna Kyle—most recently the sommelier at New York City’s Il Buco—says, “Think about region first. What grows together goes together.” And when in doubt, cheesy pasta often shines alongside wines with high acidity. “[They] cut through the richness,” Kyle says. “It helps cleanse your palate without being overtaken by the intensity,” Need more specific intel? These expert picks make iconic pasta and cheese dishes even more delicious. Getty Images The Best Wine for Cacio e Pepe: Mosnel NV Pas Dosè Sparkling Blend (Franciacorta) Getty Images The Best Wine for Fettuccine Alfredo: Giesen 2017 Clayvin Fuder Chardonnay (Marlborough) Getty Images The Best Wine for Macaroni and Cheese: Trimbach 2020 Réserve Riesling (Alsace) Getty Images The Best Wine for Pasta alla Norma: Carpineto 2018 Riserva Red Blend (Chianti Classico) Getty Images The Best Wine for Ricotta Gnocchi: Vietti 2020 Tre Vigne Barbera (Barbera d'Asti) Getty Images The Best Wine for Stuffed Shells: Altesino 2017 Montosoli Sangiovese (Brunello di Montalcino) Getty Images The Best Wine for Classic Meat Lasagna: D'Angelo 2016 Caselle (Aglianico del Vulture) Getty Images The Best Wine for Pasta with Creamy Gorgonzola: Matané 2020 Primitivo (Puglia) Getty Images The Best Wine for your Orange Pasta from the Box: Bonny Doon 2021 Le Cigare Orange Skin-Contact Wine of the Earth Grenache Blanc (Central Coast)