Pizza - the beloved Italian dish that has captured the hearts and taste buds of people worldwide. In the United States, it has become a staple of comfort food and a go-to option for casual dining and work parties. But have you ever considered what types of wines paired perfectly with all the different variations of pizza that are out there? 

Exploring Wine Pairings with Pizza

Wine with Pepperoni Pizza

Let's start with the timeless classic - pepperoni pizza. With its savory and slightly spicy flavors, this pizza calls for a wine that can match its boldness. A medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese complements the richness of the tomato sauce and the spiciness of the pepperoni. The wine's bright acidity cuts through the fatty elements of the pepperoni, leaving your palate refreshed.

Wine with Classic Cheese Pizza

A true crowd-pleaser, classic cheese pizza allows the simplicity of its flavors to shine. To enhance this beloved staple, opt for a versatile and approachable wine like a Pinot Noir or a Merlot. These red wines provide a smooth and fruity profile that harmonizes with the cheese while providing a delicate touch to the pizza's subtle nuances.

Wine with Veggie Pizza

With its medley of bell peppers, onions, olives, and mushrooms, veggie pizza offers a symphony of flavors and textures. To complement its earthy and diverse ingredients, consider a light-bodied red wine like a Beaujolais or a cool-climate Syrah. These wines accentuate the vegetable notes while maintaining a balance with their bright and fruity characteristics.

Wine with Margherita Pizza

The Margherita pizza, with its simple yet vibrant combination of fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, deserves a wine that complements its light and refreshing flavors. A crisp and aromatic white wine, such as a Sauvignon Blanc or a Vermentino, provides a lively contrast to the pizza's ingredients, elevating every bite.

Wine with BBQ Chicken and Onion Pizza

For those who enjoy the tangy sweetness of BBQ chicken and the caramelized goodness of onions on their pizza, a bold and robust wine is in order. Consider a Zinfandel or a Malbec, both known for their intense fruit-forward profiles and smooth tannins. These wines match the richness of the BBQ sauce and complement the smoky flavors, creating a harmonious pairing.

Wine with Hawaiian Pizza

While the debate about pineapple on pizza continues, if you're a fan of the sweet and savory combination, that doesn't mean there isn't a perfect wine pairing for Hawaiian pizza. The pineapple's acidity and the Canadian bacon's saltiness call for a wine with bright fruit flavors and good acidity. Try a dry Riesling or a Gewürztraminer, as their aromatic profiles and slight sweetness counterbalance the pizza's flavors, resulting in a surprisingly delicious combination.

Pizza's universal appeal has made it a favorite comfort food across the America and beyond. Whether it's the spiciness of pepperoni, the simplicity of classic cheese, or the diverse ingredients of a veggie pizza, there's a wine out there waiting to be discovered. So, gather your friends, uncork a bottle, and let enjoy a slice and a glass of wine!

Contributed by Ray Ibanez, E-Commerce Manager for Plume Ridge Bottle Shop.