Here is what I decided to pair with today’s dinner– Pizza.
Today’s Pick – Argento Malbec
Ada has celiac disease, which prevents her from being able to eat anything with gluten in it. Pizza is one of those restrictions as flour is full of gluten. That means today’s pairing comes from only me. I picked a Malbec from Argento Winery. It’s available at the LCBO.
The pizza I ordered was large, with pepperoni, cheese, and hot peppers from Pizza Pizza. Sometimes I even add a little drizzle of hot sauce to the pizza, depending on my mood. I know, it’s a little weird.
Rick— Pizza usually pairs with a rounder, softer red like a Merlot. While a Malbec might seem an odd choice for pizza, with the hot peppers and pepperoni, it works. Plus this is my favorite wine, or one of them that I’ve had all year so it was bound to work.
My rating-
Rick
Argento Malbec Taste Profile
Argento Malbec has a deep ruby color, with aromas of ripe red fruits, violets, and a subtle hint of vanilla. On the palate, it is a medium-bodied wine with soft tannins and a balanced acidity. The flavors are dominated by blackberry, plum, and black cherry, with a touch of spice and a long, pleasant finish. This Malbec is known for its smoothness and easy-drinking style, making it a great choice for pairing with grilled meats, pasta dishes, or even pizza. Overall, it is a classic representation of the Malbec grape from the Mendoza region of Argentina.
Aspect
Description
Color
Deep ruby
Aroma
Ripe red fruits, violets, subtle hint of vanilla
Body
Medium-bodied
Tannins
Soft
Acidity
Balanced
Flavors
Blackberry, plum, black cherry, spice
Finish
Long and pleasant
Style
Smooth and easy-drinking
Pairing
Grilled meats, pasta dishes, pizza
Argento Winery
Argento Winery is a wine producer based in Mendoza, Argentina. The winery is focused on expressing the different wine regions of Mendoza, from Maipú through to Lujan de Cuyo and the Uco Valley. They have vineyards in the traditional region of Mendoza and the Uco Valley, and they work considering climate and soil to preserve everything that gives identity to their wines. Argento is also known for its commitment to sustainability and organic farming. They produce a range of wines, including Malbec, Cabernet Franc, and Cabernet Sauvignon.
All about Pizza
Pizza is a popular Italian dish consisting of a flat, round base of dough topped with tomato sauce, cheese, and various toppings such as vegetables, meats, and herbs. It is typically baked in an oven and served hot. Pizza is enjoyed worldwide and has become a staple food in many countries.
History and Origins:
Pizza’s origins can be traced back to ancient civilizations like the Greeks, Egyptians, and Romans, who made flatbreads with toppings.
However, modern pizza, as we know it today, originated in Naples, Italy, in the 18th century. It was a simple dish made with flatbread, tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and basil, known as the Margherita pizza, after Queen Margherita of Savoy.
Types of Pizza:
There are countless varieties of pizza, each with its unique combinations of crust, sauce, cheese, and toppings.
The crust is the base of the pizza and can be a defining characteristic of the style.
Thin Crust: Crispy and thin, often found in New York-style pizza.
Thick Crust: Also known as pan pizza or deep-dish pizza, thicker and doughier.
Stuffed Crust: The edges of the crust are filled with cheese or other ingredients.
Neapolitan Crust: Traditional Italian-style crust, usually thin and soft.
Pizza Around the World:
As pizza gained popularity, it spread worldwide, and different cultures adapted it to their tastes.
American-style pizza: Known for its larger portions, extra cheese, and a wide range of toppings.
Chicago Deep Dish: A thick pizza with the crust raised on the sides, allowing for a deeper filling.
Mediterranean: Toppings like olives, feta cheese, sun-dried tomatoes, and artichokes are common.
Indian: Incorporates local flavors like tandoori chicken or paneer as toppings.
Pizza-Making Process:
The dough is a crucial part of making pizza. It’s typically made from wheat flour, water, yeast, salt, and sometimes olive oil. The dough is left to rise, and then it’s stretched or rolled into a circular shape.
Tomato sauce is spread on the dough, and a layer of cheese, usually mozzarella, is added on top.
Finally, various toppings are placed on the cheese, and the pizza is baked in a hot oven until the crust is cooked and the cheese is melted and bubbly.
Cultural Significance:
Pizza is not just a delicious dish but has also become an essential part of popular culture.
It is often associated with social gatherings, parties, and casual dining experiences.
Pizza restaurants and take-out establishments are widespread in cities worldwide.
Health Considerations:
While pizza can be a tasty treat, some variations can be high in calories, fat, and sodium.
Opting for healthier crust options (whole wheat, cauliflower, or gluten-free) and incorporating more vegetables as toppings can make pizza a more nutritious choice.
