Pizza is the ultimate chill food, with Americans enjoying about 3 billion pies a year. Given its immense popularity, it might seem a bit frivolous to worry about the best wine pairings. But exploring wine combinations can be an enjoyable pastime—just remember not to take it too seriously!
For instance, the ideal wine for a veggie pizza topped with green peppers and broccoli might not complement a hearty pepperoni-sausage-ham feast, which would benefit from the boldness of a robust red with well-crafted tannins. Here are some tips to enhance your pizza and wine experience to perfection.
Pepperoni Pizza
Let’s start with a classic – a delicious pepperoni pizza! With its crispy, spicy slices perfectly complementing the gooey cheese and tangy tomato sauce, it’s a hard one to beat. So what wine is best? As you make your wine selection, one thing to think about is the grease and oils that are released from the pepperoni as it cooks. This means the best type of wine to pair with this type of pizza is a nice full-bodied red wine with a good amount of tannins to help balance the fat.
In addition, pepperoni is a spicy, flavorful topping that can dominate the palate. A full-bodied red wine, with its rich flavors and robust character, can stand up to and complement the intensity of the pepperoni. There are so many great red wines for you to select from, you really can’t go wrong but we would opt for our Braganini Reserve Cabernet Sauvignon.
White Pizza
When it comes to white pizzas, some people love it, and some people don’t! A lot of that has to do with the fact that they are missing that classic pizza taste which comes from the tomato sauce. The missing acidity from the tomatoes requires a change to what you pair with it. When you are going with a white pizza, we recommend a sparkling wine or rosé. The tingly bubbles work perfectly! We have some great options for you to choose from, but we suggest our dry sparkling rosé Ciao Bolle, dry sparkling wine Braganini Reserve Blanc de Blanc, or our Sweet Nancie if you prefer your sparkling wine a bit sweeter.
Cheese Pizza
If you are more of a pizza purist and want nothing more than just cheese, your best option is a delightful Pinot Noir or other midweight red. A midweight red refers to red wine that has a moderate body and alcohol content, typically offering a balance between light and full-bodied wines. The reason this type of wine is so perfect for a cheese pizza is because of the simplicity of the pizza itself. The wine doesn’t have a lot to compete with which makes it the perfect pairing! Give our Braganini Reserve Merlot, Braganini Reserve Meritage, or Simply Red a try.
Veggie Pizza
Veggie pizza is a delightful and colorful option for pizza lovers looking to enjoy a healthier slice. Topped with an array of fresh vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, onions, olives, and spinach, the combination of melted cheese and zesty tomato sauce complements the earthy goodness of the veggies. When it comes to pairing it with wine, you should go for a light-bodied, chillable red wine. Wines that exhibit bright fruit flavors, such as cherry or raspberry, harmonize with the tomato sauce and various veggies.
Light-bodied red wines pair well with veggie pizza for several reasons. First, their lower tannin levels and higher acidity complement the fresh flavors of the vegetables without overpowering them. This balance enhances the overall taste experience, allowing the natural sweetness and earthy notes of the toppings to shine. Additionally, the lighter body of these wines ensures that they don’t overwhelm the palate, making for a refreshing accompaniment that enhances the enjoyment of the pizza. We have a handful of great, sweet, chillable reds for you to select from including our Late Nights and Dare wine.
In conclusion, the world of pizza and wine pairings offers a delightful journey of flavors that can elevate any dining experience. By experimenting with various styles of pizza—whether it’s the classic Margherita, a tangy BBQ chicken, or a vibrant veggie creation—and thoughtfully selecting complementary wines, you can discover the perfect harmony that delights your palate. From the robust characteristics of bold reds to the crisp notes of refreshing whites, there’s a mindful pairing for every pizza preference. So next time you indulge in a slice, consider reaching for a glass that enhances the experience, turning an ordinary meal into a memorable culinary adventure.
