Indulging in a slice of pizza is a universal pleasure, but have you ever considered the art of pairing it with the perfect wine? The right combination can elevate your dining experience, enhancing the flavors of both the pizza and the wine. In this mouthwatering roundup, we’ve put together eight exceptional wine and pizza pairings that are sure to satisfy your cravings. From classic cheese to savory meat lovers and refreshing veggie options, we’ve got you covered!
So, grab a glass and let’s embark on a delectable journey through the best wine with pizza combinations.
How to Pair Wine With Pizza
I love pairing wine with pizza, as it allows you to enhance the flavors of both the wine and the pizza. Here are some general guidelines to consider when pairing wine with pizza:
Consider the toppings: The toppings on your pizza play a crucial role in determining the wine pairing. Different toppings have different flavors and intensities, so it’s important to choose a wine that complements or contrasts with them.
Balance flavors: Look for a wine that balances the flavors of the pizza. For example, if your pizza has rich and savory flavors, consider a wine with good acidity to cut through the richness.
Match intensity: Consider the overall intensity of the pizza. A light and delicate pizza may be best paired with a lighter-bodied wine, while a hearty and robust pizza may call for a fuller-bodied wine.
Regional pairings: Consider pairing wines from the same region as the pizza. Italian pizzas, for instance, often pair well with Italian wines, as they share similar flavor profiles.
Experiment: Wine pairing is subjective, so don’t be afraid to experiment and discover your own preferences. Try different wines with your favorite pizzas to find combinations that you enjoy.
Cheers to the perfect harmony of flavors!
Best Wine With Pizza
Cheese Pizza & Pinot Noir
The simplicity of a cheese pizza is a canvas for culinary exploration, and when paired with a velvety Pinot Noir, the results are extraordinary. The earthy undertones of the wine beautifully complement the richness of the melted cheese, while its bright acidity cuts through the creaminess, leaving a harmonious balance on your palate. With each bite, the nuanced flavors dance together, creating a delightful symphony of taste.
Meatlovers & Cabernet Sauvignon
For the carnivorous pizza enthusiasts, the bold flavors of a meatlovers’ pizza call for an equally robust wine. Enter the Cabernet Sauvignon, a full-bodied red with its dark fruit flavors and firm tannins. This wine stands up to the hearty toppings of sausage, bacon, and pepperoni, amplifying their smoky and savory notes. The combination of the rich pizza and the structured wine creates a gratifying experience that will leave you craving for more.
Check out the best Cabernet Sauvignon wines for any budget here
Veggie & Chardonnay
Embrace the lighter side of pizza with a refreshing veggie pie paired alongside a glass of Chardonnay. The crispness and acidity of the wine accentuate the vibrant flavors of the vegetables, while its subtle oak and buttery finish provide a pleasant contrast. The Chardonnay’s versatility shines through, harmonizing with an array of toppings like bell peppers, mushrooms, and spinach, transforming your pizza experience into a garden-fresh delight.
Margherita & Pinot Grigio
Simplicity and elegance converge in the classic Margherita pizza, and the ideal companion to this timeless favorite is a glass of chilled Pinot Grigio. The wine’s light and crisp nature accentuates the delicate balance of flavors in the pizza, from the sweetness of the tomatoes to the creaminess of the mozzarella. With every sip and bite, the pairing unfolds like a summer evening in Italy, leaving you captivated by its sheer beauty.
Pepperoni & Cabernet Franc
When it comes to pepperoni pizza, a wine with enough zest to match its boldness is a must. Enter Cabernet Franc, a medium-bodied red bursting with flavors of red berries and spices. This wine’s vibrant acidity complements the spiciness of the pepperoni, while its soft tannins soothe the palate. Together, they create a memorable combination that showcases the perfect balance between heat and harmony.
Hawaiian & Riesling
The tropical flavors of a Hawaiian pizza, with its tantalizing combination of ham and pineapple, find their match in a glass of Riesling. The wine’s inherent sweetness serves as a delightful contrast to the salty ham, while its vibrant acidity cuts through the richness of the cheese. With each sip, the Riesling’s citrus and stone fruit notes harmonize with the pizza’s tropical elements, creating an enchanting and unexpected pairing.
Check out the best Riesling wine reviews & shopping guide here
Pesto & Prosecco
The vibrant green hues and herbaceous flavors of a pesto pizza call for a wine that complements its freshness. Enter Prosecco, the sparkling Italian wine known for its lively bubbles and crisp acidity. The wine’s effervescence enhances the pizza’s herbal notes, while its bright citrus flavors add a refreshing twist. Together, they create a delightful synergy that transports your taste buds to the sun-drenched hills of Italy.
Buffalo Chicken & Zinfandel
For those seeking a spicy kick, the fiery flavors of buffalo chicken pizza find their perfect companion in Zinfandel. This bold, robust red wine with its dark fruit flavors and peppery undertones stands up to the heat, while its velvety texture soothes the palate. The wine’s depth and complexity accentuate the smoky flavors of the chicken and the tanginess of the buffalo sauce, creating an irresistible combination that ignites your senses.
Common Questions About Pizza and Wine
What wine goes with pizza?
Here are a few classic pizza toppings and some wine pairing suggestions:
Margherita (Tomato, mozzarella, and basil): Pair with a light-bodied red wine like Chianti, Barbera, or Pinot Noir. Alternatively, a crisp and dry white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Vermentino can work well.
Pepperoni or Spicy Sausage: A medium-bodied red wine with good acidity like Sangiovese, Zinfandel, or Syrah/Shiraz can complement the richness and spice of these toppings.
Vegetarian (Mixed vegetables, mushrooms, etc.): Opt for a medium-bodied red or a medium to full-bodied white wine. Chardonnay, Pinot Grigio, or a red blend like Côtes du Rhône can be great choices.
Meat Lovers (Assorted meats): Consider a bold red wine with good tannins such as Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, or a Rhône blend. These wines can stand up to the richness and variety of meat flavors.
Remember, these are just general guidelines, and personal taste preferences should ultimately guide your pairing decisions. Feel free to explore and discover new combinations that excite your palate!
