Sugo alla Vodka

Penne alla Vodka is a classic of northern Italian cuisine, especially popular along the Adriatic coast around Rimini. This ready-made sauce brings the combination of tomatoes, cream, basil, and a shot of vodka (2%) directly to the table – effortless, but with real character.

The cream balances the acidity of the tomatoes, while the vodka enhances the flavors without being noticeable itself. The result is a velvety, mildly spicy sauce that can be tossed with freshly cooked penne in just a few minutes. Recommendation: warm briefly, do not boil.

A fresh Verdicchio or a light Sangiovese would be a good match – both can stand up to the creaminess without overpowering it.