What Wine Goes with Pizza?

Pizza and wine are two of the most beloved things in the world, so it’s no surprise that people are always asking what wine goes with pizza. The answer isn’t always straightforward, as it depends on the type of pizza you’re eating and the type of wine you prefer. However, there are some general guidelines that can help you find the perfect wine to pair with your pizza.

Key Takeaways

• Matching pizza and wine is about finding balance and complementing flavors.
• Different types of wines can enhance the pizza experience.
• Understanding wine and pizza pairing takes practice, but it’s worth it for the perfect combination.

Recommended Red Wines

Red wines are a classic choice for pizza. The bold flavors and tannins in red wines can stand up to the rich, savory flavors of pizza. Some popular red wines to try with pizza include:

• Chianti: This Italian wine is made with the Sangiovese grape and has a dry, medium-bodied flavor that pairs well with pizza.
• Zinfandel: This California wine has a fruity, jammy flavor that pairs well with meaty pizzas.
• Pinot Noir: This light-bodied wine has a delicate flavor that pairs well with vegetarian pizzas.

Recommended White Wines

White wines may not be the first choice that comes to mind when pairing wine with pizza, but they can be a great option for lighter pizzas or for those who prefer white wine. Some popular white wines to try with pizza include:

• Sauvignon Blanc: This crisp, acidic wine pairs well with lighter pizzas that have a lot of vegetables.
• Pinot Grigio: This light, refreshing wine pairs well with classic Margherita pizzas.
• Chardonnay: This oaked white wine can pair well with heartier pizzas that have a lot of cheese.

Recommended Rosé Wines

Rosé wines are a versatile option that can pair well with a variety of pizzas. Some popular rosé wines to try with pizza include:

• Syrah or Shiraz: This bold, full-bodied wine pairs well with meaty pizzas.
• Rosé: This light, refreshing wine pairs well with vegetarian pizzas or pizzas with lighter sauces.
• Sparkling Rosé: This bubbly wine is a fun option for celebratory pizza nights.

Recommended Sparkling Wines

Sparkling wines can add a touch of elegance to pizza night. Some popular sparkling wines to try with pizza include:

• Prosecco: This Italian sparkling wine is light and refreshing, making it a great option for lighter pizzas.
• Champagne: This French sparkling wine is a classic choice for celebrations and can pair well with heartier pizzas.
• Lambrusco: This Italian sparkling wine has a fruity, slightly sweet flavor that pairs well with meaty pizzas.

With regards to pairing wine with pizza, there are a few things to keep in mind. As a wine enthusiast, I have found that the right wine can elevate the flavors of a pizza and make the experience much more enjoyable. Here are a few tips to help you understand wine and pizza pairing.

Matching Pizza and Wine

Matching pizza and wine is all about finding balance. You want a wine that complements the flavors of the pizza without overpowering them. For example, a light, fruity red wine like Pinot Noir or Beaujolais pairs well with a Margherita pizza, while a bold, spicy red like Syrah or Zinfandel is better suited to a meat lover’s pizza. White wines like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc can be a good choice for veggie pizzas or white pizzas with creamy sauces.

Exploring different types of wines can be a fun way to enhance your pizza experience. Italian wines like Chianti and Sangiovese are classic choices for pizza, but don’t be afraid to try something new. Wines from California, France, and Spain can also be great options. Understanding wine and pizza pairing can take some practice, but it’s a skill that’s worth honing. With a little experimentation, you can find the perfect wine to complement your favorite pizza.

With regards to pairing wine with pizza, there are a few things to keep in mind. First, you want to match the intensity of the wine with the intensity of the pizza. Second, you want to consider the toppings on the pizza. And third, you want to choose a wine that complements, rather than competes with, the flavors of the pizza.

Margherita Pizza and Wine

Margherita Pizza is a classic pizza that features tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella, and basil. For this pizza, I recommend pairing it with a light-bodied red wine, such as Barbera d’Asti or Barbera d’Alba. These wines have enough acidity to cut through the richness of the cheese and tomato sauce, while also complementing the herbal notes of the basil.

Veggie Pizza and Wine

Veggie pizza can have a variety of toppings, from mushrooms and onions to bell peppers and olives. For this pizza, I recommend pairing it with a medium-bodied red wine, such as a Sangiovese grape. This wine has enough tannins to stand up to the heartier toppings, while also complementing the earthy flavors of the vegetables.

Deep-Dish Pizza and Wine

Deep-dish pizza is a Chicago-style pizza that is known for its thick crust and hearty toppings. For this pizza, I recommend pairing it with a full-bodied red wine, such as a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Zinfandel. These wines have enough structure to stand up to the thick crust and heavy toppings, while also complementing the rich tomato sauce.

Overall, With regards to pizza night, the most important thing is to choose a wine that you enjoy drinking. Experiment with different pairings and find the one that works best for you.

Consider the Toppings

The first thing to consider when pairing wine with pizza is the toppings. The flavor of the toppings will determine the type of wine that will pair well with the pizza. For example, if you are having a pizza with a lot of meat toppings, you may want to consider a full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah. On the other hand, if you are having a pizza with a lot of vegetables, you may want to consider a lighter red wine like Pinot Noir or a white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.

Consider the Sauce

The sauce is another important factor to consider when pairing wine with pizza. If the pizza has a tomato-based sauce, you may want to consider a wine with high acidity like Chianti or Sangiovese. These wines will complement the acidity in the sauce and enhance the flavors of the pizza. If the pizza has a creamy or white sauce, you may want to consider a full-bodied white wine like Chardonnay or a light red wine like Pinot Noir.

Consider the Crust

The crust is also an important factor to consider when pairing wine with pizza. If the crust is thin and crispy, you may want to consider a light-bodied wine like Pinot Grigio or a sparkling wine like Prosecco. These wines will complement the lightness of the crust and enhance the flavors of the pizza. If the crust is thick and chewy, you may want to consider a full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a bold white wine like Viognier.

Experiment with Different Wines

Finally, it’s important to experiment with different wines to find the perfect pairing for your pizza. Don’t be afraid to try different wines and see which ones work best with your favorite pizza. You may be surprised at how different wines can enhance the flavors of your pizza and make the experience much more enjoyable.

Overall, wine and pizza pairing can be a fun and enjoyable experience. By considering the toppings, sauce, and crust of your pizza, you can find the perfect wine to complement the flavors of your favorite pie.

The Role of Ingredients in Wine Pairing

With regards to pairing wine with pizza, the ingredients used in the pizza play a crucial role in determining the best wine to serve. The flavors and textures of the toppings can either complement or clash with the wine, so it’s important to consider the ingredients when making a wine pairing decision.

Factors Affecting Wine and Pizza Pairing

Here are some of the factors to consider when pairing wine with pizza:

• Acidity: The acidity of the pizza sauce can affect the taste of the wine. A tomato-based sauce with high acidity pairs well with a wine that also has high acidity. For example, a Chianti or Sangiovese would be a good match for a pizza with tomato sauce. On the other hand, a white pizza with little or no sauce would pair better with a white wine with lower acidity.
• Cheese: Cheese is a common ingredient in many pizzas and can affect wine pairing. A pizza with a mild cheese like mozzarella or ricotta pairs well with a light-bodied wine like Pinot Noir or Chardonnay. For a pizza with a stronger cheese like gorgonzola or blue cheese, a full-bodied red like Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah would be a better match.
• Meat: Meat toppings like pepperoni, sausage, and ham can also affect the wine pairing. A meat lover’s pizza with multiple types of meat would pair well with a bold red wine like Zinfandel or Malbec. For a pizza with cured meats like prosciutto or salami, a dry rosé or Pinot Noir would be a better match.
• Vegetables: Vegetables like mushrooms, peppers, and onions can also affect the wine pairing. A pizza with mushrooms would pair well with a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir or a white wine like Chardonnay. A pizza with peppers or onions would pair well with a medium-bodied red like Merlot or a white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.

Overall, With regards to pairing wine with pizza, it’s important to consider the ingredients used in the pizza. By taking into account the acidity, cheese, meat, and vegetables, you can make an informed decision and choose a wine that will complement the flavors of the pizza.

Frequently Asked Questions