Regarding the match of wine with meals, there aren’t any hard and fast rules. It boils down to personal preference and finding that perfect match that enhances the taste of both the wine and the meal. From my perspective, a particularly enjoyable combination of food and wine is pizza and wine. There’s something uniquely appealing about pairing a flavorful, cheesy pizza with a fine glass of wine.
Now, you might be wondering, “What kind of wine goes with pizza?” Well, the answer is not as simple as you might think. It depends on the toppings and flavors of the pizza, as well as your own personal taste preferences.
Classic Margherita Pizza
Let’s start with the classic Margherita pizza. This simple yet flavorful pizza consists of a thin crust, tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella cheese, and basil. For this traditional pizza, I recommend pairing it with a medium-bodied red wine like Chianti or Sangiovese. The acidity of the tomato sauce and the richness of the cheese complement the fruity and earthy flavors of these Italian wines.
Pepperoni Pizza
For those who enjoy a classic pepperoni pizza, a bold and robust red wine would be an excellent choice. The spicy and savory flavors of the pepperoni call for a wine that can stand up to it. A Cabernet Sauvignon or a Syrah/Shiraz would be perfect. These wines have enough tannins and fruity flavors to balance out the richness of the pizza.
Vegetarian Pizza
If you prefer a vegetarian pizza loaded with fresh vegetables like bell peppers, mushrooms, and onions, a light and refreshing wine would be ideal. A crisp and fruity white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio would complement the lighter flavors of the veggies without overpowering them.
BBQ Chicken Pizza
For those who enjoy the tangy and smoky flavors of BBQ chicken pizza, I recommend pairing it with a slightly sweet and fruity red wine like Zinfandel. The sweetness of the wine will offset the spiciness of the BBQ sauce, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
Conclusion
Ultimately, the perfect wine to pair with pizza is subjective. It all comes down to your personal taste preferences and the flavors of the pizza you are enjoying. Don’t be afraid to experiment and try different combinations to find your own favorite pizza and wine pairing. So next time you order a delicious pizza, don’t forget to grab a bottle of wine to elevate your dining experience.
