Pizza, the most favorite Italian cuisine of many, is fast food for some, but a delight for everyone. The versatile baked dough with cheese and the versatile stretch on toppings allow a VinoVosser to experiment with flavors and the accompanying wine. Some may prefer a beer with pizza, however, wine shows a more elegant and refined experience. In this article, we will look at our recommendations for wines that pair perfectly with pizza.

Not only Italian wine goes well with Pizza (Photo: AI-generated by DallE)

Margherita Pizza and Chianti Classico

Let's begin with the classic Margherita pizza. Its fresh mozzarella, tangy San Marzano tomatoes, and fragrant basil are a testament to the timeless beauty of simplicity. To accompany this Neapolitan treat, a Chianti Classico from Tuscany is an impeccable choice. Why, you ask? The vibrant acidity and supple tannins of the Sangiovese grape cut through the richness of the mozzarella, while the herbal undertones of the wine dance with the basil atop the pie. It's a pairing that would make Queen Margherita herself nod in approval.

Recommended pairing for Margherita pizza:

San Felice Il Grigio Chianti Classico Riserva

Pepperoni Pizza and Zinfandel

Next up is the pepperoni pizza, a bold and spicy favorite that demands a wine with enough character to stand up to its robust flavors. Discover Zinfandel. This wine, with its dark fruit profile and a peppery kick, is like a dialogue between old friends—it matches the intensity of the pepperoni without overwhelming the senses. The slight sweetness of a ripe Zinfandel can also temper the heat of the pepperoni, creating a harmonious balance on the palate.

Recommended pairing for pepperoni pizza:

The Prisoner Saldo Zinfandel

Hawaiian Pizza and Riesling

For something a bit controversial yet undeniably popular, the Hawaiian pizza, with its sweet pineapple and savory ham, offers a unique taste profile. To complement this combination, a Riesling, particularly one with a touch of sweetness, is a revelation. The high acidity of the wine slices through the richness of the cheese and ham, while its fruity notes harmonize with the pineapple. It's a pairing that bridges the gap between savory and sweet, delighting those who are adventurous enough to try it.

Recommended pairing for Hawaiian pizza:

Dr. Loosen Dr. L Riesling

Mushroom Pizza and Pinot Noir

For mushroom pizza enthusiasts, there's a certain earthiness that requires a wine with depth and elegance. Pinot Noir, with its ethereal aromas of forest floor and ripe red berries, is the answer. The subtle umami flavors of the mushrooms are echoed in the savory qualities of the Pinot Noir, while the wine's acidity provides a counterpoint to the creamy cheese. This pairing is like a walk through an autumnal forest—wholly grounding and utterly enchanting.

Recommended pairing for mushroom pizza:

Innocent Bystander Pinot Noir

BBQ Chicken Pizza and Syrah

Turning up the heat, BBQ chicken pizza is a mélange of sweet, tangy, and smoky flavors. It calls for a wine that has a similar boldness. Syrah, with its smoky notes and hints of dark berries, stands shoulder to shoulder with the intensity of the BBQ sauce. The tannins in the wine help to cleanse the palate, ensuring that each bite is as satisfying as the first. It's a gutsy pairing that's as exhilarating as a jazz improvisation—unexpected and deeply satisfying.

Recommended pairing for BBQ chicken pizza:

Yalumba Samuel's Collection Bush Vine Grenache

White Pizza and Chardonnay

White pizza, or pizza bianca, forgoes the tomato sauce for a rich blend of cheeses, sometimes complemented by garlic and herbs. Here, a buttery Chardonnay is the pièce de résistance. The creamy texture of the wine envelops the palate in the same way the cheeses envelop the crust. Oak-aged Chardonnays with their toasty notes can also add an extra layer of complexity to the pairing, much like a sprinkle of finely grated Parmigiano-Reggiano on top of the pizza.

Recommended pairing for white pizza:

Kendall-Jackson Grand Reserve Chardonnay

Pesto Pizza and Sauvignon Blanc

For those who revel in the verdant flavors of pesto pizza, the zesty liveliness of a Sauvignon Blanc is a jubilant companion. The herbal qualities of the pesto find a mirror in the grassy notes of the wine, while its crisp acidity acts as a foil to the richness of the pine nuts and oil in the sauce. This pairing is like a refreshing breeze on a warm Mediterranean day—it's invigorating, bright, and full of life.

Recommended pairing for pesto pizza:

Pascal Jolivet Sancerre Blanc

Spicy Diavola Pizza and Primitivo

Lastly, for the thrill-seekers who can handle the heat of a spicy Diavola pizza, a Primitivo from Southern Italy is the way to go. Its juicy, fruity nature and subtle sweetness can quell the fire of the chilies, while its robust structure ensures it isn't overshadowed by the spiciness. It's a passionate dance of fire and fruit, where each element elevates the other in a harmonious inferno of taste.

Recommended pairing for spicy Diavola pizza:

Vigneti del Salento Primitivo I Muri

To wrap up, our exploration through the dynamic duos of wine and pizza has been a guide to tantalizing your taste buds and enriching your dining experience. But the journey doesn't stop here; for those eager to dive deeper into the world of exquisite wine pairings, your next destination awaits. For example, you can discover more about pairing wine and fast food in this expert curated article!

Head over to Vinovoss, where a curated collection of wines, tailored to suit any dish you desire, is at your fingertips, promising to elevate your food pairing to an art form. Whether you’re a seasoned sommelier or a curious newcomer, Vinovoss is your compass to the perfect pour.

Peter Douglas