Wine and pizza are among Italy’s most popular exports. But how to combine them? In today’s post, we give you the tips and insights you need to create the perfect wine-pizza pairing. Keep reading to learn more!
Red Wine: Pinot Noir, Chianti, Zifandel
Since pizza typically has a tomato-sauce base, red wine is the obvious pairing.
The acidity and tannins in red wine cut through the richness of the cheese and the tomato sauce sauce, while the fruitiness balances and complements other pizza flavors.
However, that doesn’t mean that all red wines go well with pizza. Heavy, full-bodied wines like Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah, which can overwhelm the food. Instead, opt for lighter, fruitier options like Pinot Noir, Chianti, or Zinfandel.
White Wine: Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio
White wine can also make a delicious pairing with pizza, especially if you’re going for a lighter, vegetable-based pie.
Look for bright, acidic white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. These wines will help cut through the cheese and bring out the flavors of any vegetables or herbs on the pizza.
You should steer clear, however, of sweet or oaky white wines, which can clash with the flavors typically present in pizza.
Rosé
For a middle-ground option that can work with a variety of pizza styles, try pairing your pie with a rosé wine.
Rosé offers the fruitiness of a red wine with the acidity of a white, making it a versatile choice when it comes to pizza.
In fact, for many Italians, rosé still wine is the perfect pairing for any pizza that features tomato sauce. Plus, the refreshing flavors of rosé can be the perfect accompaniment to pizza bianca, or white pizza, that is, pizza made without tomato sauce.
Bonus Tip: Go Local
Finally, don’t be afraid to try pairing your pizza with a local wine. Depending on where you live, there may be a wine region nearby that offers delicious, pizza-friendly wines. This is especially true if you live in California!
Plus, supporting local businesses is a great way to connect with your community and discover new favorites. So the next time you’re at your local wine shop, ask for recommendations on locally made wines that would pair well with your favorite type of pizza.
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