Why Do Wine and Pizza Go So Well Together?
What you drink while eating pizza is up to you, of course. But, if you want to maximize the flavors and truly enjoy the pizza as a gourmet experience, it is highly recommended you select the appropriate wine and pizza combination. The pizza and wine pairings depend on several factors, such as the type of sauce, the toppings, and the degree of spiciness. There is no one specific wine that goes with pizza since most do. So, consider the pizza flavor and toppings when selecting your wine. Here are a few recommendations for pizza and wine pairings.
If you are eating a pizza Bianca or white pizza, then you need to pair the sauce with the right wine. In most cases, the white pizza pairs well with white wines, like Pinot Gris or a sweet Reisling.
If the pizza is heavily tomato-based with a sauce like Margherita or marinara, then select a light red wine (Pinot Noir) or even a dry rose wine.
If your pizza has toppings of pepperoni, pork, cured beef, or sausage, which usually add more flavor to the pizza, you need to balance it with a soft, fruity, red wine. Pepperoni is a layer of fat, and you will require a bold wine with strong fruity flavors to balance the taste of paprika, garlic, and pepper. Fruity wines that pair with pepperoni pizza include Pinot Noir and Syrah.
If you are into a cheese-heavy pizza, then you need to balance it with a bold red wine, like Cabernet Sauvignon or Zinfandel.
For a Hawaiian Pizza that has toppings of pineapple and/or bacon, the most appropriate wine is the Riesling. This particular white wine cleanses the palate and enhances the sweetness of the ham and pineapple. If you do not have Riesling, either Lambrusco or Zinfandel are also excellent choices.
If you are a veggie eater and love pizzas with an ample amount of mushrooms as toppings, you can complement the earthy flavor with a mild, dry Pinot Noir.
For pizzas with meat and chicken, the best wine pairing is Cabernet Sauvignon. This bold red wine will enhance the taste of the tannins, cut through the fat, and elevate the fruity taste of the beverage. If you have run out of Cabernet, other great choices include Malbec and Tempranillo.
At the end of the day, pizza and wine pairings are recommended because they enhance the eating experience by bringing out all the flavors. Contact Pacific Rim & Company at 1-503-863-5454 as they are wine experts and can help you with wine selections to enhance your next pizza party.