What Wine Goes with Pizza: Perfect Pairing With Your Slice
Ever wondered what wine goes with pizza? You’re not alone. Pairing wine with pizza might seem tricky, but it can elevate your pizza night to a whole new level.
Whether you’re a fan of classic Margherita, a meat lover’s dream, or a veggie delight, there’s a perfect wine out there waiting to complement your favorite slice.
Let’s dive into the delicious world of pizza and wine pairings, and I’ll share tips and tricks to make your next pizza night a memorable gourmet experience.
Understanding Wine and Pizza Pairing Basics
When it comes to pairing wine with pizza, balance is key. You want the flavors of the wine and pizza to complement each other, not overpower one another. Here are the basics to keep in mind:
The importance of balance
- Aim for a wine that enhances the pizza’s flavors while holding its own
- Avoid wines that are too bold or too light for your pizza toppings
- Consider the overall flavor profile of your pizza, including sauce, cheese, and toppings
Considering the acidity in both wine and pizza
- Acidity plays a significant role, especially with tomato sauce-based pizzas
- Choose wines with higher acidity to match the acidity of tomato sauce
- Example: Chianti or Sangiovese pair well with classic Margherita pizza
- High-acid wines can also help cut through rich, fatty toppings
How pizza toppings affect wine choice
The toppings on your pizza influence the best wine pairing. Here’s a quick guide:
- Tomato-Based Toppings: For Margherita pizza, a high-acidity wine like Chianti perfectly balances the tomato sauce and complements the fresh mozzarella and basil.
- Cheese: When enjoying a four-cheese pizza, Chardonnay’s buttery texture is ideal for cutting through the richness of the multiple cheeses.
- Meat Toppings: A meat Lover’s pizza with hearty meats like sausage pairs exceptionally well with a robust wine like Cabernet Sauvignon.
- Vegetable Toppings: For a veggie Pizza, a lighter wine such as Pinot Noir enhances the fresh flavors of the vegetables without overwhelming them.
The Role of Texture
- Consider the texture of your pizza when choosing a wine
- Crispy thin-crust pizzas often pair well with lighter-bodied wines
- Thick, chewy crusts can stand up to fuller-bodied wines
Remember, these are general guidelines. The beauty of wine pairing is that personal preference plays a significant role. Don’t be afraid to experiment and find what works best for your palate!
Classic Pizza and Wine Pairing
Margherita Pizza
Wine Pairing: Chianti, Pinot Grigio
Explanation: Margherita pizza, with its simple yet flavorful combination of fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomato sauce, calls for a wine that complements these ingredients without overpowering them. A Chianti is a great choice due to its bright acidity, which matches the acidity of the tomato sauce. Additionally, the earthy notes of a Chianti enhance the basil and cheese flavors. A Pinot Grigio is another excellent option; its light, crisp profile refreshes the palate and balances the pizza’s richness.
Pro Tip: Look for a Chianti with moderate tannins to avoid clashing with the acidity of the tomato sauce. For more on pairing Chianti with various dishes, you might find this guide useful.
Pepperoni Pizza
Wine Pairing: Sangiovese, Syrah
Explanation: The bold, spicy flavors of pepperoni pizza need a wine that can stand up to its intensity. Sangiovese, with its high acidity and moderate tannins, pairs beautifully with the spiciness of pepperoni and the richness of cheese. Alternatively, Syrah offers a full-bodied, spicy profile that complements the pepperoni’s flavors without overwhelming them.
Pro Tip: A light red wine like Sangiovese can balance the spicy and salty flavors of pepperoni, making each bite more enjoyable.
Four Cheese Pizza
Wine Pairing: Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc
Explanation: A four-cheese pizza is rich and creamy, making it a perfect match for a Chardonnay. The buttery, full-bodied nature of Chardonnay complements the richness of the cheese. For a more vibrant pairing, Sauvignon Blanc offers high acidity and citrus notes that cut through the creaminess, refreshing your palate with each sip.
Pro Tip: Opt for an unoaked Chardonnay to avoid overwhelming the delicate cheese flavors.
Hawaiian Pizza
Wine Pairing: Riesling, Lambrusco
Explanation: Hawaiian pizza’s sweet and savory combination of ham and pineapple pairs wonderfully with a Riesling. The natural sweetness of Riesling enhances the pineapple while balancing the saltiness of the ham. For a fun and slightly fizzy option, Lambrusco is a great choice, adding a playful sparkle to your pizza experience.
Pro Tip: Choose a Riesling with a touch of sweetness to complement the pineapple without overpowering the other flavors.
With these classic pairings in mind, you’re well on your way to creating memorable pizza and wine experiences.
Summary of Classic Pizza with Wine Pairing
Pizza Type | Wine Pairing | Explanation |
Margherita Pizza | Chianti, Pinot Grigio | Chianti’s acidity matches tomato sauce; Pinot Grigio refreshes the palate. |
Pepperoni Pizza | Sangiovese, Syrah | Sangiovese pairs with spicy pepperoni; Syrah complements without overwhelming. |
Four Cheese Pizza | Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc | Chardonnay complements cheese richness; Sauvignon Blanc cuts through creaminess. |
Hawaiian Pizza | Riesling, Lambrusco | Riesling enhances pineapple and balances ham; Lambrusco adds playful sparkle. |
Gourmet and Specialty Pizza Pairing
BBQ Chicken Pizza
Wine Pairing: Zinfandel, Merlot
Explanation: BBQ chicken pizza, with its sweet and tangy barbecue sauce, smoky chicken, and savory toppings, requires a wine that can handle its complex flavors. Zinfandel is an excellent choice due to its bold fruitiness and hint of spice, which complement the barbecue sauce. Additionally, its moderate tannins won’t overpower the dish. Merlot is another great option, offering a smooth, fruit-forward profile that balances the pizza’s sweetness and smokiness.
Pro Tip: Look for a Zinfandel with notes of black cherry and pepper to enhance the flavors of the BBQ sauce.
Veggie Pizza
Wine Pairing: Rosé, Pinot Noir
Explanation: Veggie pizza, loaded with fresh vegetables like bell peppers, onions, mushrooms, and olives, pairs beautifully with a Rosé. The light, crisp, and slightly fruity nature of Rosé enhances the fresh, earthy flavors of the vegetables. If you prefer red wine, Pinot Noir is a great choice. Its light to medium body and bright acidity complement the veggies without overpowering them.
Pro Tip: A dry Rosé will bring out the best in your veggie pizza, adding a refreshing contrast to the savory toppings.
White Pizza
Wine Pairing: Vermentino, Chardonnay
Explanation: White pizza, often made with a garlic cream sauce, mozzarella, and sometimes ricotta or other cheeses, pairs wonderfully with Vermentino. This Italian white wine offers citrusy and herbal notes that brighten the rich, creamy flavors of the pizza. Another excellent pairing is Chardonnay, especially an unoaked version, which provides a full-bodied but fresh profile that complements the garlic and cheese.
Pro Tip: Choose a Vermentino with high acidity to cut through the richness of the white sauce.
Meat Lover’s Pizza
Wine Pairing: Cabernet Sauvignon, Montepulciano
Explanation: Meat lover’s pizza, loaded with pepperoni, sausage, ham, and bacon, needs a bold wine to match its hearty flavors. Cabernet Sauvignon is a classic choice with its robust tannins and dark fruit flavors that complement the richness of the meats. For a slightly different approach, Montepulciano offers a medium to full-bodied profile with earthy and fruity notes that pair well with the variety of meats.
Pro Tip: A Cabernet Sauvignon with a hint of oak can enhance the smoky flavors of the meats.
Salad Pizza
Wine Pairing: Sauvignon Blanc, Grenache
Explanation: Salad pizza, topped with fresh greens, tomatoes, cucumbers, and a light vinaigrette, pairs excellently with Sauvignon Blanc. This wine’s high acidity and citrus notes enhance the freshness of the salad toppings. If you prefer red wine, Grenache offers a light, fruity profile that won’t overpower the delicate salad ingredients.
Pro Tip: A Sauvignon Blanc from New Zealand, with its vibrant acidity and tropical fruit notes, can be a great match for salad pizza.
With these gourmet and specialty pizza pairings, you can impress your guests and elevate your pizza nights to a whole new level.
Summary of Gourmet and Specialty with Wine Pairing
Pizza Type | Wine Pairing | Explanation |
BBQ Chicken Pizza | Zinfandel, Merlot | Zinfandel’s spice complements BBQ sauce; Merlot balances sweetness and smokiness. |
Veggie Pizza | Rosé, Pinot Noir | Rosé enhances vegetable flavors; Pinot Noir complements without overpowering. |
White Pizza | Vermentino, Chardonnay | Vermentino brightens creamy flavors; Chardonnay complements garlic and cheese. |
Meat Lover’s Pizza | Cabernet Sauvignon, Montepulciano | Cabernet matches hearty meat flavors; Montepulciano pairs well with various meats. |
Salad Pizza | Sauvignon Blanc, Grenache | Sauvignon Blanc enhances fresh toppings; Grenache doesn’t overpower delicate ingredients. |
Regional Pizza and Wine Pairing
Neapolitan Pizza
Wine Pairing: Aglianico, Falanghina
Explanation: Neapolitan pizza, known for its simple yet flavorful ingredients like fresh mozzarella, basil, and tomato sauce, pairs beautifully with Aglianico. This Italian red wine, with its full body, high acidity, and rich tannins, complements the tomato sauce and enhances the savory flavors of the pizza. For a white wine option, Falanghina offers bright acidity and citrus notes that refresh the palate and balance the richness of the cheese.
Pro Tip: An Aglianico with a few years of aging can add complexity and smoothness, making it a perfect pairing with the classic Neapolitan pizza. You can learn more about Aglianico and its characteristics from Wine Folly.
New York-Style Pizza
Wine Pairing: Cabernet Sauvignon, Chianti
Explanation: New York-style pizza, characterized by its large, foldable slices and generous toppings, needs a wine that can match its bold flavors. Cabernet Sauvignon, with its robust tannins and dark fruit flavors, pairs well with the hearty tomato sauce and gooey cheese. Chianti, with its high acidity and earthy notes, is also a great choice, providing a balanced contrast to the pizza’s richness.
Pro Tip: Opt for a Chianti Classico for a slightly more refined pairing that enhances the flavors of New York-style pizza.
Chicago Deep-Dish Pizza
Wine Pairing: Malbec, Zinfandel
Explanation: Chicago deep-dish pizza, with its thick, buttery crust and layers of cheese, tomato sauce, and toppings, requires a bold wine that can stand up to its hearty nature. Malbec is a fantastic option, offering a full-bodied profile with dark fruit and spicy notes that complement the richness of the pizza. Zinfandel, with its bold, fruity flavors and moderate tannins, also pairs well, cutting through the layers of cheese and sauce.
Pro Tip: A Malbec from Argentina, known for its smooth tannins and rich flavors, is an excellent match for deep-dish pizza.
Sicilian Pizza
Wine Pairing: Nero d’Avola, Grillo
Explanation: Sicilian pizza, known for its thick, fluffy crust and robust toppings like olives, anchovies, and tomatoes, pairs wonderfully with Nero d’Avola. This full-bodied Italian red wine offers dark fruit flavors and a hint of spice that enhances the savory toppings. For a white wine option, Grillo provides bright acidity and citrus notes that balance the richness of the pizza.
Pro Tip: A Nero d’Avola with a touch of oak aging can add depth and complexity, making it a perfect match for Sicilian pizza.
Detroit-Style Pizza
Wine Pairing: Barbera, Lambrusco
Explanation: Detroit-style pizza, with its rectangular shape, crispy edges, and thick crust, pairs excellently with Barbera. This Italian red wine offers high acidity and bright red fruit flavors that cut through the rich, cheesy crust. Lambrusco, with its slight sparkle and fruity profile, is another great option, adding a refreshing contrast to the hearty pizza.
Pro Tip: Choose a Barbera d’Asti for its balance of acidity and fruitiness, making it a versatile pairing for Detroit-style pizza.
By exploring these regional pizza and wine pairings, you can enjoy authentic combinations that celebrate the unique flavors of each pizza style.
Summary of Gourmet and Specialty with Wine Pairing
Pizza Type | Wine Pairing | Explanation |
Neapolitan Pizza | Aglianico, Falanghina | Aglianico complements tomato sauce; Falanghina balances cheese richness. |
New York-Style Pizza | Cabernet Sauvignon, Chianti | Cabernet matches bold flavors; Chianti provides balanced contrast. |
Chicago Deep-Dish Pizza | Malbec, Zinfandel | Malbec complements richness; Zinfandel cuts through cheese and sauce. |
Sicilian Pizza | Nero d’Avola, Grillo | Nero d’Avola enhances savory toppings; Grillo balances richness. |
Detroit-Style Pizza | Barbera, Lambrusco | Barbera cuts through cheesy crust; Lambrusco adds refreshing contrast. |
Tips for Choosing the Right Wine for Your Pizza
When selecting wine for your pizza, consider these key points:
- Identify dominant flavors in your pizza. Is it the tomato sauce, the cheese, or a particular topping that stands out?
- Match wine intensity to pizza toppings. Lighter toppings pair well with lighter wines, while heartier toppings can handle bolder wines.
- Consider the sauce – red sauce pairs well with high-acid wines like Chianti or Barbera.
- Don’t forget the cheese – it impacts wine choice significantly. Creamy cheeses often pair well with crisp whites or light reds.
- Trust your personal preference. If you enjoy it, it’s a good pairing!
- Consider the occasion when choosing your wine. A casual night might call for a different wine than a dinner party.
- Experiment with different combinations. You might discover unexpected pairings you love.
- Serve wine at the proper temperature for optimal taste. Slightly cool for reds, chilled for whites.
Remember, the goal is to enhance your overall enjoyment of the meal. Don’t be afraid to break traditional rules if it leads to a combination you love!
Common Pizza and Wine Pairing Mistakes to Avoid
As we explore the world of pizza and wine pairing, it’s important to be aware of some common pitfalls. Here are some mistakes I’ve seen (and admittedly made myself) that you’ll want to avoid:
- Overpowering pizza flavors with too-bold wines: A big, tannic red might overwhelm a delicate Margherita pizza. Match wine intensity to your pizza’s flavors.
- Ignoring the acidity balance between wine and tomato-based pizzas: Tomato sauce is acidic, so choose wines with good acidity to complement it. A low-acid wine might taste flat alongside a tomato-based pizza.
- Serving wine at incorrect temperatures: Reds served too warm can taste alcoholic, while whites served too cold can lose their flavor nuances. Aim for slightly cool reds and chilled (not ice-cold) whites.
- Always defaulting to red wine: While reds are classic, don’t overlook whites and rosés. They can offer delightful pairings, especially with lighter pizzas.
- Overlooking sparkling wines as viable options: Bubbles can beautifully cut through rich, cheesy toppings. Don’t dismiss Prosecco or other sparklers!
- Pairing solely based on color (red wine with red sauce, etc.): While this can be a starting point, it’s not a hard rule. A crisp white can work wonderfully with a tomato-based pizza.
- Disregarding personal preferences in favor of “rules”: If you enjoy a particular combination, that’s what matters most. Don’t let wine pairing “rules” override your taste.
Remember, the goal of pairing is to enhance your enjoyment. By avoiding these common mistakes, you’ll be on your way to more satisfying pizza and wine experiences.
Tips for Hosting a Perfect Pizza and Wine Night
Check out my best tips for hosting a pizza and wine night, making it easy to pair wine with pizza and create an unforgettable experience for your guests or friends.
- Menu Planning: Include a variety of pizzas and select wines that pair well with each type. Create a menu card with recommended pairings.
- Space Setup: Set up a welcoming space with a pizza-making station or arrange for delivery. Ensure you have enough wine glasses, corkscrews, and napkins.
- Wine Service: Serve white wines chilled and red wines at room temperature. Consider using a decanter for bold reds like Cabernet Sauvignon.
- Enhancing Experience: Provide small tasting portions of each pizza and wine pairing. Include palate cleansers like water crackers between tastings.
- Educating Guests: Share knowledge about the pairings. Provide a tasting guide or brief presentation on each wine and pizza.
- Catering to Preferences: Offer non-alcoholic beverages that pair well with pizza, like sparkling water or craft sodas, for guests who prefer not to drink alcohol.
- Enjoying the Night: Focus on having fun and creating a memorable experience. Relax and enjoy the food and wine with your guests.
Conclusion
Pairing wine with pizza is an art that can turn a simple meal into something extraordinary.
By understanding the basics of wine characteristics and matching them with your favorite pizzas, you can create unforgettable flavor combinations.
Whether you’re hosting a pizza party or just enjoying a quiet night in, the right wine can make all the difference.
So next time you grab a slice, don’t forget to pour a glass of wine that complements it perfectly.
Enjoy the journey of discovering the perfect pairings, and cheers to many delicious pizza and wine nights ahead!
FAQs: What Wine Goes with Pizza
What are the best red wines for pizza?
The best red wines for pizza include Sangiovese, Chianti, Barbera, and Zinfandel. These wines have the acidity to complement tomato sauce and the body to stand up to various toppings.
Can you drink white wine with pizza?
Absolutely! A crisp Sauvignon Blanc or a full-bodied Chardonnay pairs beautifully with pizza, especially those with creamy sauces or veggie toppings. They balance the flavors and refresh your palate.
What wine goes best with cheese pizza?
Sauvignon Blanc or Barbera are excellent choices. Their acidity cuts through the richness of the cheese, balancing the flavors perfectly.
Can I pair red wine with white pizza?
Yes, you can! Light red wines like Pinot Noir or a fuller-bodied Chardonnay complement the creamy texture and subtle flavors of white pizza.
What’s the best wine for a pizza with spicy toppings?
A slightly sweet wine like Riesling or a fruity Zinfandel can balance the heat from spicy toppings, creating a harmonious flavor profile.
How does crust type affect wine pairing?
The type of crust can influence the pairing. Thin, crispy crusts work well with lighter wines like Pinot Noir, while thick, doughy crusts can handle full-bodied wines like Zinfandel or Malbec.
Does Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon go with pizza?
Both can be excellent choices. Merlot’s softer tannins pair well with a variety of pizzas, while Cabernet Sauvignon’s bold flavors complement meat-heavy pizzas.