If you regularly crack open a cold one to go with your pizza, it might be time to rethink your drink of choice. Although Americans favor beer, wine is a more traditional beverage to have with pizza. There’s a saying that "if it grows together it grows together," and since both pizza and wine have Italian roots, they’re the perfect match. Che bello! (That’s Italian for 'How nice!')
When crafting the perfect wine and pizza pairing, consider the acidity and tannins of the wine and how it will pair with your favorite pizza. In general, the fat content of melted cheese pairs nicely with a higher acidity wine and the tomato flavor benefits from a wine with a lower tannin content. Wines with high tannins could actually taste metallic in combination with tomato sauce, and nobody wants that.
Have fun getting to know more about your food while researching the different flavor profiles and how they work together — or against each other. Become your own sommelier and try out these combinations out next time you grab a slice. Whether it's a gourmet pie or take-out pizza, you'll uncork the perfect pairing based on your pizza preferences.
Pizza & Wine Pairings
Ultimately, your favorite wine is often the best. If you prefer red wines, but a white is the "perfect" pairing, consider what it is about that particular wine that makes it a good pairing. Is it the fruit flavor? Or is it the higher acidity? Once you understand the why behind the combinations, you can tweak them to fit your own preferences. But there’s no harm in storing a few extra bottles up in your cabinets so that next time you host pizza night you’ll be prepared for whatever toppings your guests choose. And when in doubt, you can't go wrong with any type of Italian wine.