Wine and pizza have always been a classic combination, but did you know that certain wines pair better with different styles of pizza? In this guide, we will explore the best wine and pizza pairing options for your next meal.
Margherita pizza is a traditional Italian-style pizza topped with tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil. This simple yet flavorful combination calls for a light-bodied red wine like Chianti or Pinot Noir. These wines will not overwhelm the delicate flavors of the pizza, but instead complement them beautifully.
If you prefer white wine, opt for a crisp and refreshing Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. The acidity and citrus notes of these wines will balance out the richness of the cheese and bring out the freshness of the basil.
For those who love a hearty and meaty pizza, a bold red wine is your best bet. The strong flavors of pepperoni, sausage, and bacon call for a full-bodied wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah. These wines have enough tannins to cut through the fat in the meat and enhance its savory flavors.
If you prefer white wine, go for a medium-bodied Chardonnay. Its buttery texture and oaky notes will complement the smokiness of the meats without overpowering them.
Vegetarian pizzas can vary in flavor depending on the toppings, but a general rule for pairing with wine is to stick with light-bodied and fruity options. A delicate Chardonnay or Rosé will pair well with veggie pizzas topped with roasted vegetables, mushrooms, or spinach.
For those who prefer red wine, opt for a medium-bodied Merlot or Sangiovese. These wines have enough fruitiness to balance out the earthy flavors of the vegetables without being too heavy.
Hawaiian pizza, with its combination of ham and pineapple, may seem like an unconventional choice for pairing with wine. However, it's actually a match made in heaven. The salty and sweet flavors of the pizza are perfectly complemented by a slightly sweet and fruity wine like Gewurztraminer or Moscato.
If you prefer red wine, go for a light-bodied Pinot Noir. Its bright fruitiness will balance out the sweetness of the pineapple and bring out the smokiness of the ham.
Sicilian pizza, with its thick crust and hearty toppings, calls for a robust and spicy wine. A bold Zinfandel or Malbec will pair well with the rich tomato sauce and strong flavors of Italian sausage and peppers.
For those who prefer white wine, try a full-bodied Viognier or Albariño. These wines have enough body to stand up to the heartiness of the pizza while also adding a touch of acidity to balance out the richness.
Gluten-free pizzas can be made with a variety of different crusts, from traditional wheat alternatives like rice flour or cornmeal to more unique options like cauliflower or chickpea flours. When pairing wine with gluten-free pizza, it's important to consider the flavors of the toppings rather than just the crust.
For a vegetable-based gluten-free pizza, like one topped with roasted eggplant and zucchini, opt for a light-bodied white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Gris. These wines will enhance the herbal and vegetal flavors of the vegetables without overpowering them.
If your gluten-free pizza is topped with meat or bold flavors like barbecue sauce, go for a medium-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah. These wines have enough tannins to stand up to the strong flavors and add depth and complexity to each bite.
Neapolitan pizza, with its thin crust and traditional toppings of tomato sauce, mozzarella cheese, and fresh basil, is best paired with a light-bodied wine like Chianti or Barbera. These Italian red wines have high acidity and bright fruit flavors that complement the simplicity of Neapolitan pizza.
For white wine lovers, an unoaked Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio will also pair well with Neapolitan pizza. Their light body and crispness will enhance the tomato and herb flavors without overpowering them.
Vegan pizzas can be made with a variety of different toppings, from classic marinara sauce to innovative creations like cashew cheese and vegetable medleys. When pairing wine with vegan pizza, it's important to consider the dominant flavors and textures of the toppings.
For a classic marinara-based vegan pizza, opt for a light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir or Gamay. Their bright fruit flavors and low tannins will complement the tanginess of the tomato sauce without overwhelming it.
If your vegan pizza is topped with creamy cashew cheese or rich vegetables like mushrooms and artichokes, go for a medium-bodied white wine such as Chenin Blanc or Viognier. These wines have enough body to stand up to the richness of the toppings while still providing a refreshing contrast.
At Joe's Pizza Stone, we offer a variety of stone baked pizzas that cater to different tastes and dietary preferences. Our menu includes classic Neapolitan pizza as well as vegan options using house-made cashew cheese. We are also always experimenting with unique toppings and flavors, so there is always something new to try. Check out our pizza deals in Grand Prairie and get ready for a truly satisfying dining experience.
