Did you know that wine can be a great pairing for pizza? Some combinations might surprise you. Here, we'll discuss why wine complements pizza so well and offer recommendations for the best wines to enjoy alongside various types of pizza, from classic Margherita to spicy pepperoni. Whether you prefer a refreshing white wine to complement the richness of the cheese or a full-bodied red to match hearty toppings, our insights will help you make the perfect pairing for your next pizza night.
Pizza & Wine: The Perfect Combination
Most people love pizza. This Italian specialty can be tailored to suit a variety of palates. It can also be enjoyed as a meal or just as a tasty snack. Whatever your preferences, pizza can be a great comfort food. When sitting down to savour a slice, you may consider having a glass of your favourite vino to go with your meal, but what wine should you choose?
There are a few basic rules to food and wine pairing, but when it comes to pizza it largely depends on the sauce and toppings chosen. Below are our top recommendations for wine and pizza lovers.
How do you choose which wine goes with which type of pizza?
Selecting a wine to pair with pizza can be a bit overwhelming. Should you honour the pizza’s Italian roots by choosing an Italian wine? And what if you've ordered a half-and-half pizza with different toppings? The good news is that there are no definitive right or wrong answers. Ultimately, the best wine to enjoy with pizza depends on personal preference.
The wide variety of pizzas allows for pairings with an array of wines, from red to white, sparkling to Rosé. Embrace the classic principles of pizza and wine pairing as you embark on this flavourful journey. Consider the sauce and toppings, as tomatoes and tomato sauce bring a delightful balance of acidity and sweetness, complemented by their juicy texture. Choose a wine that goes well with these flavours, enhancing your experience without overshadowing it. A light, dry Pinot Grigio, for example, is a perfect match for a Margherita pizza, while a Shiraz, though bold, may not reflect the same synergy.
There’s no reason to limit your search when looking for the perfect wine to pair with pizza. Embrace the adventure. It’s an essential and enjoyable aspect of discovering great wine and food combinations.
What is the best wine to pair with pizza?
For those in pursuit of the perfect pizza-wine pairings, we offer some tried and true flavour combinations that are sure to elevate your experience.
Pepperoni or Sausage with Robust Reds
Pepperoni and sausage are undeniably classic pizza toppings. Their spicy and bold flavours and the meat's rich fat content create a savoury pizza experience that's hard to resist. For the perfect pairing, you can't go wrong with a full-bodied red wine. A Primitivo (Zinfandel) or a robust Cabernet Sauvignon is an excellent choice. The plush tannin profiles of these wines not only cut through the richness of the meat and cheese but also enhance the overall flavour, ensuring a truly satisfying dining experience.
White Pizza with Dry White Wines
Not everyone enjoys white pizzas, but they offer interesting pairing opportunities. The ideal wine to complement a pizza with a white sauce is a dry white wine. Since there are no tomatoes, you don't need to be concerned about high acidity. These pizzas are generally lighter and pair well with a crisp, refreshing Pinot Grigio. You can also pop the bubbles and enjoy a bottle of Prosecco.
Classic Cheese with GSM or Gamay Noir
Often referred to as the New York classic, cheese pizza offers a delightful taste experience with its rich, gooey cheese. The key to pairing this pizza with wine lies in simplicity. Keep in mind that cheese can be quite high in fat, so it's important to select a complementary wine.
A light but juicy Gamay with fine, delicate tannins can be a delightful pairing as the wine refreshes the palate between bites. Another interesting option for pairing with cheese pizza is a GSM, which is a classic Rhône-style red wine made from Grenache, Syrah, and Mourvèdre. The wine's nice acidity complements the cheesy pizza by offsetting the richness of the buttery cheese. Additionally, the full yet plush tannins enhance the overall mouthfeel without overwhelming the dish.
Margherita Pizza with Dry Rosé
Pairing a Margherita pizza with a dry Rosé may seem unconventional, yet it offers a delightful experience. The aromatic notes of fresh basil and creamy buffalo mozzarella create a beautiful contrast to the fruity and floral essence of a dry Rosé. Alternatively, a light, dry white wine stands as a classic and reliable choice.
Hawaiian Pizza with Riesling
Hawaiian pizza is a bold and exciting choice that often sparks debate among pizza enthusiasts. While some question the inclusion of fruit (other than tomato) on pizza, we firmly believe that cuisine should be an adventure and Hawaiian pizza perfectly exemplifies that spirit.
If you're searching for the ideal wine to pair with Hawaiian pizza, a Riesling is an excellent choice. Its fresh acidity acts as a palate cleanser, allowing you to fully enjoy each bite. Additionally, the wine's fruit-forward and aromatic characteristics enhance the sweetness of the pineapple.
Looking for the perfect wine for your next pizza night? Join us for an expert-guided wine tour, where you will get to sample many different possibilities that may inspire you. Book your Niagara wine tour today.