Wine and pizza are a match made in heaven.
Whether you enjoy a classic combination of mozzarella and marinara sauce, a creamy ‘white’ pizza with ricotta cheese and mushrooms, or a sizzling meat feast pizza, there’s a wine out there that will enhance your pizza and take it to the next level.
However, which wine to pair with which pizza can be something of a conundrum if you usually reach for a beer with your Saturday night pizza.
That’s why we put together this article. We’ve covered the best wine types, best wine colors and provided our top recommendations for wines to pair with pizza – so you know exactly which bottle to reach for next time you make or order pizza.
Wine types
Best for simple, Napoletana pizza
If you’re enjoying a classic, simple Napoletana-style pizza with tomato and mozzarella, a wine with good acidity and plenty of bright fruit flavors will balance out the tangy tomato sauce.
Italian reds are perfect for this – think Barbera d’Asti or the Frappato from Sicily. Keep it simple. Lighter reds like Gamay or Sangiovese work well and will further enhance the comfort of pizza night.
Best for spicy or meat toppings
If you’re adding toppings to your pizza, particularly ones with a hint of spice such as pepperoni, you can opt for a more robust wine with higher levels of tannin.
Nero d’Avola wines from Sicily have bold fruit flavors and have become a regular on pizzeria wine lists. They also go particularly well with meat-based pizzas. A young, chilled Chianti can also go well with meaty or spicy pizzas.
Generally, you’ll want a heartier or more robust wine to match a hearty, meat pizza. Think Shiraz, Cabernet Sauvignon, Zinfandel, or Merlot.
Best for “white pizza”
White pizza – known as Pizza Bianca – is pizza made without tomato or marinara sauce, and topped with white cheeses. They usually feature garlic, clams, spinach, and alfredo sauce instead of tomato sauce, which means that the acidity in the tomato sauce is no longer an issue.
For white pizza, look no further than a classic white wine such as Chardonnay. This full-bodied white wine boasts the structure and body to support the density of white pizza.
The cream-based sauce enhances the natural creamy notes of Chardonnay, which will provide your meal with subtle notes of lemon, peach, pineapple, pear, and passion fruit.
Chardonnay’s trademark ‘creaminess’ is not caused by oaking, but instead by malolactic fermentation which is responsible for the imparting butter and cream flavors. Therefore you need to select a fruity Chardonnay which was not submitted to malolactic fermentation if you like fruity notes of lemon, peach, pineapple, pear, and passion fruit.
Best for pineapple toppings
Pineapple is often a controversial topic when it comes to pizza. Back in 2017, Pizza delivery app Slice surveyed 34,000 people on their taste in pizza toppings. 54% of respondents (out of the 9,474 who responded to this question) were adamant in saying “no – pineapple is not for pizza!”
Nonetheless, if you’re a fan of this sweet topping, you may want to opt for a white wine with good acidity and enough body to balance out the pineapple.
A semi-dry (demi-sec) Vouvray or Riesling will suit a sweet and savory pizza well. The acid of the wine cuts through the rich tomato sauce, while the sweetness will match that of the pineapple.
These wines also go well with dessert pizza, such as those adorned with chocolate or caramel, and we recommend going for the sweetest bottle of Riesling or Vouvray possible.
When it comes to pairing wine with desserts, the general rule of thumb is to make the wine sweeter than food. This prevents the wine from tasting bitter when you take a sip in between eating your dessert.
Best for vegetarian pizza
Chianti makes a frequent appearance on the wine lists of pizzerias, and good Chianti is both savory and spicy, with red fruits, bitter herbs, and notes of balsamic vinegar, smoke, and leather.
If you’re going for a veggie pizza, particularly one with lots of fresh herbs, look for a Chianti Classico, which is at least 80% Sangiovese, or a Brunello di Montalcino, which is 100% Sangiovese.
A Sauvignon Blanc also pairs well with vegetarian pizza, as it has a bright acidity that balances well with a variety of veggies. A dry rose wine would also perform well.
Best for pizza with mushrooms or potato
For pizza loaded with mushrooms and potatoes, Beaujolais, a light red wine, is a great option. Its earthy flavors mimic those of the toppings well, and it’s similar to Pinot Noir but for a fraction of the cost.
Best color wine for pizza: red, white, or rose?
There’s no simple answer to this question, as red, white, or pink wines can pair well with pizza, it’s more so a question of your choice of topping, as this will be the big determinant of which wine to opt for.
Full-bodied red wine, such as Shiraz or Merlot, goes great with hearty, meat pizzas. Lighter reds such as a medium-bodied Chianti or a mellow Beaujolais pairs well with veggie pizza or potato and mushroom toppings.
For white wine, think creamy pizzas like “white” pizza or those with a touch of sweetness, like pineapple or Hawaiian pizza.
Finally, a dry rose wine will suit veggie pizza and is the perfect halfway point between red and white varieties.
Top Wines for Pizza Pairing
Antinori Peppoli Chianti Classico
If there’s one wine that makes the perfect pairing for your favorite pizza, it has to be the Antinori Peppoli Chianti Classico 2019. This delightful Italian red is a true gem that will elevate your pizza experience to new heights. With its vibrant cherry color and enticing aromas of ripe cherries, blackberries, and spices, this wine sets the stage for a mouthwatering feast.
But what really sets the Antinori Peppoli Chianti Classico 2019 apart is its unique flavor profile. On the palate, you’ll discover an exceptional harmony of flavors, with notes of dark cherry, plum, vanilla, and a subtle hint of earthiness. The wine’s medium body and well-integrated tannins make it incredibly smooth on the finish, leaving you craving for another slice of pizza accompanied by another sip.
Whether you’re enjoying a classic Margherita or indulging in a hearty meat lover’s pie topped with pepperoni and sausage, the Antinori Peppoli Chianti Classico 2019 promises to enhance every bite. Its lively acidity cuts through rich tomato sauces while complementing the flavors of melted cheese perfectly.
Dashwood Sauvignon Blanc
For the sophisticated wine enthusiast, Dashwood Sauvignon Blanc 2022 is a revelation. Its crisp and refreshing notes dance on the palate, complementing a wide array of culinary delights. Take for instance the combination of mushroom pizza and this exquisite wine. As your taste buds savor the earthy flavors of the mushrooms, Dashwood Sauvignon Blanc adds a delightful zing to each bite. The wine’s herbaceous undertones harmonize perfectly with the savory umami goodness of the pizza, creating an extraordinary dining experience.
In addition to its compatibility with mushroom pizza, Dashwood Sauvignon Blanc also proves to be an ideal partner for vegetarian pizza offerings. The wine’s vibrant acidity and tropical fruit flavors provide a burst of freshness that enhances every bite of grilled vegetables and tangy tomato sauce on your vegetarian pie. Whether it’s roasted bell peppers or caramelized onions that grace your slice, this intriguing sauvignon blanc elevates these ingredients to new heights, making you appreciate their complexity in an entirely different way.
Dashwood Sauvignon Blanc breaks free from convention by offering unique pairings that showcase its versatility and appeal to both meat lovers and vegetarians alike. This exceptional wine sets itself apart from others through its ability to enhance the flavors of arguably two vastly different pizzas – one rich with meaty umami flavors and another brimming with fresh, vibrant veggies. So why not treat yourself to a bottle?
Firestone Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon 2020
The Firestone Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon 2020 is a wine that perfectly complements a wide range of dishes, including classic favorites like Pizza Margherita and Vegetarian Pizza. This stunning red wine offers an array of flavors that enhance the earthiness of the ingredients in these pizzas. With its deep ruby color and aromas of blackberries, cherries, and hints of vanilla, this Cabernet Sauvignon sets the tone for a truly elevated dining experience.
When paired with a slice of gooey Pizza Margherita, the Firestone Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon brings out the tanginess of the tomato sauce while balancing it with its smooth tannins. The savory notes from the fresh basil leaves dance on your palate alongside the rich berry flavors in each sip, resulting in a delightful synergy between food and wine.
Similarly, when savoring a slice of Vegetarian Pizza topped with an assortment of roasted vegetables and creamy mozzarella cheese, this Cabernet Sauvignon adds complexity to every bite. The wine’s medium body ensures that it doesn’t overpower these delicate toppings but instead amplifies their essence.
Bogle Merlot 2020
The Bogle Merlot 2020 is the perfect companion to a classic Pizza Margherita. This exquisite wine displays an array of luscious flavors that beautifully complement the simplicity of this iconic Italian dish. With its deep ruby color and enticing aromas of ripe cherries and vanilla, this Merlot instantly intrigues the senses.
On the palate, the Bogle Merlot 2020 delivers layers of juicy blackberries, velvety plums, and a touch of mocha. Its smooth tannins and well-balanced acidity create a harmonious marriage with the fresh tomato sauce and creamy mozzarella on top of that crispy pizza crust. The wine’s subtle hints of spice elevate each bite, making every mouthful burst with flavor.
Whether you’re enjoying an evening at home or hosting a gathering with friends, pairing Pizza Margherita with Bogle Merlot 2020 will undoubtedly elevate your experience.
The Federalist Lodi Zinfandel 2019
The Federalist Lodi Zinfandel 2019 is the perfect companion for your pizza night. The combination of its rich flavors and the savory goodness of a piping hot slice is simply unbeatable. As you take a sip, you’ll be greeted with an explosion of dark berry notes that intertwine elegantly with hints of spice and vanilla. This wine doesn’t overpower your taste buds but rather enhances the experience, creating a harmonious balance that leaves you craving another bite.
One interesting aspect to note about this particular vintage is how it showcases the unique characteristics of Lodi’s terroir. Lodi, known for its warm climate and diverse soils, produces some of California’s finest Zinfandels. The Federalist has truly captured the essence of this region in their 2019 release, allowing us to taste the authentic expression of Lodi through each sip. It’s fascinating to see how these environmental factors shape the wine’s flavor profile and contribute to its overall appeal.
So next time you’re ready to indulge in a pizza feast, don’t forget to grab a bottle (or two) of The Federalist Lodi Zinfandel 2019. Let this captivating wine elevate your dining experience as it pairs effortlessly with all types of pizza toppings – from classic margherita to daring combinations like BBQ chicken or even pineapple! Get ready for an evening filled with delightful flavors that will make you appreciate both good wine and great company even more.
Decoy Pinot Noir
If there’s one thing that can elevate an ordinary pizza night to a truly unforgettable experience, it’s a glass of Decoy Pinot Noir 2021. This exquisite wine is the perfect companion for your favorite slice, bringing out the flavors in ways you never knew were possible. With its vibrant red hue and enticing aromas of dark berries and spice, each sip is like a symphony on your taste buds.
What sets this vintage apart from others is its impeccable balance. The smooth tannins provide just the right amount of structure, allowing the juicy cherry and raspberry flavors to shine through. It’s a dance of flavors that complements the rich tomato sauce and melted cheese on your pizza perfectly.
Sonoma-Cutrer Sonoma Coast Chardonnay
This vibrant and versatile white wine offers a delightful blend of flavors that beautifully complement the cheesy goodness of your favorite slice. With its crisp acidity and notes of ripe apple, pear, and tropical fruit, this Chardonnay cuts through the richness of melted cheese, while still maintaining a balanced and refreshing finish.
What sets apart the Sonoma-Cutrer Sonoma Coast Chardonnay 2022 is its impeccable craftsmanship. The grapes used in this wine are carefully handpicked from select vineyards along the cool coastal region of Sonoma. This unique terroir allows for slow ripening and optimal flavor development, resulting in a wine that truly captures the essence of its origins. Each sip transports you to sun-soaked vineyards kissed by ocean breezes – a tangible expression of California’s coastal beauty.
Whether it’s a classic margherita or an indulgent meat lover’s pie, pairing pizza with this exquisite Chardonnay elevates your dining experience to new heights. The bright acidity cuts through greasy toppings while enhancing the nuanced flavors of herbs and spices sprinkled on top. So next time you’re craving your favorite slice, don’t forget to reach for a bottle of Sonoma-Cutrer Sonoma Coast Chardonnay 2022 – let its delicious complexity enhance every bite for an unforgettable culinary adventure.
Chateau Ste. Michelle Riesling 2020
One of the most exciting aspects of enjoying a glass of Chateau Ste. Michelle Dry Riesling 2020 is the unexpected pairing it creates with everyone’s favorite comfort food: pizza. While many may opt for a red wine when indulging in this Italian delight, the crisp and vibrant flavors of this dry Riesling adds an entirely new dimension to the dining experience. The zesty citrus notes and subtle stone fruit undertones play off the richness of the tomato sauce, while its wonderful acidity cuts through the cheese, providing a refreshing contrast.
Beyond its remarkable ability to elevate pizza night, Chateau Ste. Michelle Dry Riesling 2020 also deserves appreciation as a standalone sipper. Its delicate floral aromas tantalize the senses, inviting you to take that first sip and discover a mesmerizing combination of green apple, lemon zest, and mineral flavors on your palate. What sets this particular vintage apart is its impeccable balance between sweetness and acidity – it manages to be both refreshing and complex all at once. Whether enjoyed on a warm summer afternoon or paired with your favorite savory dishes, this dry Riesling promises to keep surprising and delighting wine enthusiasts time and time again.
In conclusion, Chateau Ste. Michelle Dry Riesling 2020 stands as an exceptional choice for those seeking a captivating wine experience that defies expectations while complementing an array of culinary delights – especially pizza!
Final Verdict
Pizza and wine are a perfect combination, and once you try the two together, you’ll find it hard to have one without the other. Whether you lean more towards white wines or red wines, chunky American-style meat pizza, or simple Napoletana pizza, there are so many choices when it comes to pairing wine and pizza.
Just remember, look for wines that balance the acidity of tomato pizzas, or enhance the creaminess of white ones.
