Picture yourself savouring a freshly baked pizza, its crust crispy and topped with stretchy, mouthwatering cheese. As you take a bite, the explosion of flavours delights your taste buds. Now imagine the experience being taken to a whole new level by pairing this perfect pizza with the ideal wine.
In this blog, we delve into the art of pairing pizza and wine, discovering how their flavours harmonise effortlessly. You'll find valuable tips on selecting the best wine to complement your pizza and more. Additionally, we'll guide you to some incredible pizza and wine experiences around the world, ensuring you can indulge in this delightful pairing to the fullest.
The Queen’s Choice - Margherita Pizza and Wine
Legend has it that the world's most beloved pizza, Margherita, was born in Naples in 1889. Pizzaiolo Raffaele Esposito created this recipe to honour Queen Margherita of Savoy during her visit. The pizza, representing the colours of the Italian flag and adorned with tomatoes, mozzarella di buffalo, and basil, captured the queen's heart, so the pizza master gave her name to this culinary marvel.
In Naples, the traditional wine pairing for Margherita is a light red wine, typically made from local varieties. A wonderful choice to accompany this simple yet delightful pizza is the Camaiola from Cantina Giacomo Simone, 2020. This fruity wine, unaged in oak, boasts red fruit aromas and soft tannins. It harmoniously complements the acidity of Italian tomatoes and enhances the creamy taste of mozzarella, making it a perfect match for the Margherita pizza.
Standing in Naples with pizza in your hands, your mind wanders to your next travel spot. Here you can find wineries to visit near Naples for more memorable Italian holidays.
Margherita Pizza & Wine Pairing
The classic Margherita pizza, with its simple ingredients of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, pairs beautifully with a light and crisp white wine, such as a Pinot Grigio or a young, fruity Rosé. The freshness of the wine balances the acidity of the tomatoes, while the herbal notes complement the basil.
Try This: A glass of Italian Pinot Grigio or Provence Rosé.
No.1 Pizza in the US: Pepperoni and Wine to Pair
Pepperoni pizza, with its delightful combination of tomato sauce, cheese, and spicy Italian salami, represents a fusion of Italian and American cultures. A relatively modern invention, it only made its way onto US restaurant menus in the 1950s. Before that, bacon and ham were the most popular meat toppings. Today, pepperoni stands as the iconic American pizza, reigning supreme in sales across the United States.
When it comes to pairing wine with pepperoni pizza, you have some delicious options! Chianti, Zinfandel, and Barbera are top picks for their fruity and balanced flavours. But don't miss out on the Le Stranizze Spumante Brut Rosé from Cantine De Gregorio! This sparkling rose is light, bubbly, and filled with the delightful aroma of red fruits and summer flowers. Its smooth sparkle adds elegance, making it the perfect companion for any spicy pizza. Elevate your pepperoni pizza experience with this fantastic wine. Cheers to a mouthwatering combination!
Pepperoni Pizza & Wine Pairing
Pepperoni's bold and spicy flavour profile needs a wine that can stand up to its intensity. A Chianti or Zinfandel, with its rich and spicy character, is a perfect match. The tannins in these red wines cut through the fat of the pepperoni, while the wine's peppery notes enhance the pizza's spiciness.
Try This: Chianti Classico or a spicy California Zinfandel.
Forest Delights: Fungi e Prosciutto Pizza Pairing
Fungi e Prosciutto pizza has a fascinating history that traces back to Italy, where it emerged as a mouthwatering culinary creation. Combining thinly sliced prosciutto, with its savoury and delicate taste, alongside earthy and flavorful mushrooms, the pizza quickly won the hearts of pizza lovers across the globe. When choosing a wine to complement this pizza, opt for varieties with aromas of wild berries, autumn foliage, and undergrowth. Young wines or mature ones aged from Pinot Noir, Nebbiolo, Malvasia, and Sangiovese will be great matches.
For a fantastic pairing, try the Langhe DOC Nebbiolo La Chiusa-CChionetti, made from Nebbiolo. This elegant light wine offers subtle aromas of ripe berries and fragrant herbs, beautifully accentuating the forest character of the dish and harmonising with its rich taste.
For those seeking an authentic Italian pizza and wine experience, Tenuta Ca' Sciampagne winery awaits a scenic panoramic view.
Extra Cheese: Quattro Formaggi Pizza and Wine
If you're a cheese lover, you probably were thinking of Quattro Formaggi. This irresistible pizza has a long history, dating back to the 18th century in Lazio, Italy. It's named after its four cheese toppings, creating a heavenly blend of flavors. Italian pizzerias use local cheeses, so the recipe can vary from region to region. But no matter where you try it, you'll always find mozzarella as a base, complemented by other delicious cheeses like gorgonzola, parmigiano reggiano, fontina, taleggio, and more. If you were wondering what wine goes well with cheese pizza look for the white or sparkling wines that balance the cheese's richness and creaminess.
For a perfect pairing, try Quattro Formaggi with sparkling wines like Valdobbiadene Prosecco Superiore DOCG Brut Millesimato Ville di Arfanta - Serena Wines 1881. Made from 100% Glera the wine’s fine acidity and floral aroma perfectly balance the pizza. Perfect for any occasion, it's also a delightful choice for an aperitif with friends.
Vegetarian Pizza & Wine Pairing
A vegetarian pizza with an assortment of vegetables like mushrooms, bell peppers, and olives pairs well with a versatile Sauvignon Blanc. The wine's bright acidity complements the vegetables, while its herbal notes match the pizza’s earthy flavors.
Try This: New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc or Spanish Verdejo.
BBQ Chicken Pizza & Wine Pairing
The sweet and smoky flavors of BBQ chicken pizza call for a wine with a touch of sweetness, like a Riesling or a rich Merlot. These wines balance the smoky and tangy barbecue sauce, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
Try This: Off-dry Riesling or a velvety Merlot.
Seafood Pizza & Wine Pairing
For a seafood pizza featuring ingredients like shrimp or anchovies, opt for a crisp and mineral-driven white wine, such as Vermentino or Albariño. These wines highlight the delicate flavours of the seafood without overpowering them.
Try This: Italian Vermentino or Spanish Albariño.
Pizza and Wine Adventures: Exploring Regional Pizza Pairings Around the World
- Provençal-style Pizzas with Provençe Rosé Wine
Venture to France, where the Provençal region offers a unique take on pizza. Inspired by the vibrant flavours of the Mediterranean, Provençal-style pizzas often feature ingredients like fresh herbs, olives, and sun-dried tomatoes. Pairing these delectable creations with a crisp and refreshing rosé, such as a Côtes de Provence or Bandol, will enhance their Provencal charm and bring out the tantalizing aromas.
Pizza Night at Domaine l'Ancienne École - Sunset, Pizza and Fine Wine experience at the winery.
- Coca, Spanish Style of Pizza and Tempranillo
Next stop, Spain! Traditional Spanish-style pizzas, known as "Coca," offer a delightful fusion of flavours. These thin-crust delights are often topped with Spanish ingredients like chorizo, manchego cheese, or roasted peppers. To elevate the Spanish pizza experience, consider pairing it with a Tempranillo or Rioja wine. The earthy and fruity undertones of these wines beautifully complement the smoky and spicy elements of Spanish-style pizzas.
Barrels and Plates at Bodegas Nodus - Barrels and plates experience in Valencian winery surrounded by pine forest.
- New York-Styled Pizza with Zinfandel
As we continue our culinary exploration, let's head to the United States, where New York-style pizza reigns supreme. With its large, foldable slices and a perfect balance of cheese, sauce, and toppings, a medium-bodied red wine like a California Zinfandel or Sangiovese would be an excellent choice. The wine's acidity and fruit-forward nature will harmonize with the tangy tomato sauce and melted cheese, creating a delightful symphony of flavors.
Single Vineyard Reserve Tasting at Homas George Estates - Taste one of the best estate wines and estate-made pizzas in Californian winery.
- Greek Style Pizza with Assyrtiko
Greek-style pizza is a delicious and unique variation of the classic pizza, featuring Mediterranean-inspired flavours that are sure to tantalise your taste buds. Topped with feta cheese, olives, roasted red peppers, and basil, it offers a delightful blend of savoury and tangy notes. To elevate your Greek pizza experience, consider pairing it with a crisp and refreshing white wine like Assyrtiko from Santorini, Greece. This indigenous grape variety complements the pizza's flavours with its citrusy acidity and mineral undertones, creating a perfect harmony between food and wine.
Full Moon - Wine and Dine at the Vineyard - Enjoy a moonlit dinner and wine tasting in a Greek family vineyard.
Seasonal Wine and Pizza Pairings
Spring Pizza and Wine Pairings
Spring is a time of renewal, with vibrant and fresh flavors that match the season’s light, crisp wines. It’s the perfect time to embrace the green, herbaceous notes of wines like Sauvignon Blanc and Vinho Verde, paired with equally fresh and lively pizzas.
Spring Vegetable Pizza & Wine Pairing
Picture a pizza topped with spring vegetables like asparagus, artichokes, and fresh herbs. The crisp acidity of a Sauvignon Blanc or a Portuguese Vinho Verde is the perfect companion, cutting through the earthy flavors and highlighting the freshness of the toppings.
Try This: Loire Valley Sauvignon Blanc or a refreshing Vinho Verde.
Goat Cheese and Arugula Pizza & Wine Pairing
For a pizza featuring tangy goat cheese and peppery arugula, a light Rosé or a Grüner Veltliner works wonderfully. The wine’s subtle fruitiness and lively acidity balance the creaminess of the cheese and the spiciness of the greens.
Try This: Provence Rosé or Austrian Grüner Veltliner.
Pesto Pizza & Wine Pairing
Spring is also the season for fragrant, herbaceous pesto. Pair a pesto pizza with a dry, zesty Vermentino or a crisp Gavi to bring out the vibrant basil flavors and add a touch of citrusy brightness.
Try This: Italian Vermentino or Gavi di Gavi.
Summer Pizza and Wine Pairings
In the summer, opt for lighter wines like Rosé or Sauvignon Blanc to pair with fresh, summery pizzas topped with arugula, lemon, or fresh mozzarella.
Caprese Pizza & Wine Pairing
With fresh tomatoes, creamy mozzarella, and fragrant basil, a Caprese pizza is a summer classic. Pair it with a crisp, citrusy Sauvignon Blanc or a light Prosecco to enhance the pizza’s bright flavors.
Try This: Marlborough Sauvignon Blanc or Italian Prosecco.
Grilled Vegetable Pizza & Wine Pairing
A pizza topped with grilled zucchini, eggplant, and bell peppers pairs well with a dry Rosé or a light-bodied Pinot Grigio. These wines bring out the smoky flavors of the grilled vegetables while keeping the pairing light and refreshing.
Try This: Provence Rosé or Italian Pinot Grigio.
Hawaiian Pizza & Wine Pairing
The sweet and salty combination of pineapple and ham on a Hawaiian pizza is perfectly matched with a Riesling or a chilled Lambrusco. The slight sweetness of these wines complements the pineapple, while the crisp acidity balances the savoury ham.
Try This: Off-dry German Riesling or sparkling Lambrusco.
Autumn Pizza and Wine Paitings
Autumn brings richer, more robust flavors to the table, with hearty, warming pizzas that call for wines with more depth and complexity. Think of earthy mushrooms, roasted squash, and savory sausage paired with bold reds and aromatic whites.
Mushroom and Truffle Pizza & Wine Pairing
For an earthy mushroom or truffle pizza, choose a Pinot Noir or a Nebbiolo. The elegant red fruit notes and subtle earthiness of these wines complement the mushrooms perfectly, making for a sophisticated pairing.
Try This: Burgundy Pinot Noir or Italian Nebbiolo.
Butternut Squash Pizza & Wine Pairing
An autumn pizza topped with roasted butternut squash, sage, and caramelized onions pairs beautifully with a medium-bodied Viognier or a spiced Gewürztraminer. The wines’ rich, aromatic flavours balance the sweetness of the squash and the herbal notes of the sage.
Try This: California Viognier or Alsace Gewürztraminer.
Sausage and Sage Pizza & Wine Pairing
For a savory sausage and sage pizza, go for a bold and spicy red like a Syrah or a Rioja. The robust flavors and hints of pepper in these wines enhance the savoury, herby toppings and add warmth to your autumn meal.
Try This: Northern Rhône Syrah or Spanish Rioja.
Winter Pizza and Wine Pairings
In the colder months, hearty red wines like a bold Cabernet Sauvignon or a Syrah work well with rich and meaty pizzas, such as a sausage and mushroom pizza.
Meat Lovers Pizza & Wine Pairing
A pizza loaded with sausage, bacon, and pepperoni pairs best with a bold and tannic red wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon or a Malbec. These wines have the structure to stand up to the meaty flavors and provide a warming finish.
Try This: Napa Valley Cabernet Sauvignon or Argentinian Malbec.
Four Cheese Pizza & Wine Pairing
For a decadent four-cheese pizza featuring a blend of mozzarella, gorgonzola, parmesan, and ricotta, choose a full-bodied Chardonnay or a ripe Grenache. The creaminess of the cheese is beautifully balanced by the wine’s lush fruit and subtle oak notes.
Try This: Oaked California Chardonnay or Southern Rhône Grenache.
Spicy Salami Pizza & Wine Pairing
A spicy salami pizza, with its fiery flavours, needs a wine that can cool down the heat while still adding depth. A Syrah or a bold Zinfandel, with their peppery and jammy profiles, are the perfect partners.
Try This: Barossa Valley Syrah or California Zinfandel.
Frequently Asked Questions about Pizza and Wine
What kind of wine goes with pizza?
Red wines are a popular choice to pair with pizza. Varieties like Chianti, Merlot, or Sangiovese complement the flavors of tomato-based sauces and various pizza toppings, creating a delightful combination.
Do pizza and wine go together?
Absolutely! Pizza and wine make a fantastic pairing. The acidity and fruitiness of the wine can enhance the savoury and rich flavours of the pizza, elevating the overall dining experience.
Does white or rosé wine go with pizza?
While red wines are more commonly associated with pizza, some people may enjoy pairing certain white or rosé wines with specific pizza styles. Light and crisp white wines or dry rosé wines can work well with vegetable or seafood-based pizzas.
Does red wine taste good with pizza?
Yes, many people find red wine to be a wonderful complement to pizza. The complex flavours of red wines can harmonize with the varied tastes of different pizza toppings.
Do Italians drink wine with pizza?
Yes, drinking wine with pizza is a cherished part of Italian dining culture. Italians often enjoy local wines alongside their favourite pizzas, appreciating the harmony between the two beloved culinary traditions.
What are some classic wine pairings for pizza?
Popular wine pairings for pizza include Chianti with Margherita pizza, Sangiovese with pepperoni or sausage pizza, and Pinot Noir with mushroom or vegetarian pizza.
Can I pair white wine with pizza?
Yes, white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Chardonnay can pair well with certain pizzas, such as seafood or white sauce-based pizzas.
What type of wine complements spicy or hot pizzas?
Zinfandel or Syrah/Shiraz are good choices to balance the heat and spice of pizzas with jalapeños, pepperoncini, or other hot toppings.
How can I experiment and find my favourite pizza and wine pairings?
Experimenting with different wines and pizza combinations is part of the fun - try different styles and varietals to discover your perfect pairing!
