Pizza is a beloved comfort food enjoyed by millions around the world - but what's a slice of pizza without a glass of wine (or a can)? Wine pairing with pizza is a delicate art that can elevate the taste of both the pizza and the wine. In this article, we will explore what wines go best with pizza, which types of wine pair better with specific pizza toppings, and introduce our brand's convenient Red Wine-In-A-Can and White Wine-In-A-Can (which we think are both PERFECT pairings for pizza - trust us we’ve tried!).

What wines go best with pizza?

Before we delve into specific wine and pizza pairings, let's discuss what wines go best with pizza. When it comes to wine pairing, there are a few factors to consider - such as the acidity, sweetness, and spiciness of the pizza toppings. A good rule of thumb is to pair red wine with red sauce pizza and white wine with white sauce pizza. Additionally, a general guideline is to pair full-bodied wines with meaty pizzas and lighter wines with vegetarian pizzas.

What wine goes best with each type of pizza?

• Pepperoni Pizza: A medium-bodied red wine such as a Merlot or a Cabernet Sauvignon would be a perfect match for this worldwide favorite topping. The richness of red wine assists in balancing out the spiciness of the pepperoni and the saltiness of the cheese. If you prefer a white wine, a Chardonnay can be an excellent choice, providing a buttery and oaky taste that complements the flavors of the pizza.
• Margherita Pizza: Margherita pizza is a classic Italian pizza that consists of tomato sauce, fresh mozzarella cheese, and basil. A light and crisp white wine such as a Pinot Grigio or a Vermentino would work perfectly with these toppings. Bright and zesty flavors of Pinot and Vermentino complement the fresh and vibrant ingredients of a Margherita Pizza.
• Sausage Pizza: Indulge in the decadence of a savory and hearty sausage pizza, and elevate your culinary experience with a perfectly paired full-bodied red wine. When it comes to this type of pizza, the ideal pairing requires a wine with enough body to stand up to the richness of the sausage, while still enhancing the flavors of the cheese and tomato sauce. Consider a Zinfandel for its jammy and fruity notes, or perhaps a Syrah with its smoky and peppery undertones. However, if your taste buds prefer the subtle yet elegant notes of white wine, a full-bodied Viognier may be just the right choice with its floral and slightly sweet taste.
• Hawaiian Pizza: Consisting of ham and pineapple, this divisive pizza that many people either love or hate calls for a slightly sweet wine such as a Riesling or a Rosé. The sweetness of the wine helps to balance out the acidity of the pineapple, while the fruitiness of the wine complements the savory flavors of the ham.

Frequently Asked Questions About Pizza and Wine Pairings

What wine goes with pizza - red or white?

The age-old question of whether red or white wine is better with pizza depends on the type of pizza being served. Red wine tends to pair well with heartier, meaty pizzas, while white wine pairs well with lighter, vegetable-based pizzas. However, there are always exceptions to the rule. For example, a white pizza with garlic and cheese can pair nicely with a light red wine. The key is to experiment with different wine and pizza combinations to find what works best for your taste buds.

What wine goes with pepperoni pizza?

Pepperoni pizza is a classic favorite enjoyed by many. When it comes to wine pairing with pepperoni pizza, a red wine with a medium to full body, such as a Chianti or a Zinfandel, pairs well. The tannins in the wine complement the rich, bold flavors of the pepperoni, while the acidity helps cut through the grease.

Is Pinot Noir good with pizza?

Pinot Noir is a light to medium-bodied red wine with a low tannin level and high acidity. It pairs well with delicate flavors and is a great option for lighter pizzas, such as Margherita. Crisp acidity of the wine complements the fresh tomato and basil flavors of the pizza. On the other side of the spectrum, for example, heartier pizzas like meat lover's, a more full-bodied red wine would be a better option. Our Red Wine-In-A-Can, with its robust flavors and convenient packaging, is a great option for pizza lovers on-the-go.

Does Cab or Merlot go with pizza?

Cabernet Sauvignon and Merlot are both full-bodied red wines with high tannin levels that pair well with meaty pizzas. Cabernet serves as a more robust wine with flavors of black cherry and tobacco, while Merlot has softer tannins and a fruitier flavor profile. The key here is to choose a wine that complements the specific toppings on the pizza. A spicy sausage pizza would pair well with a Cabernet Sauvignon, while a mushroom and cheese pizza would pair better with a Merlot.

Is pizza good with Cabernet Sauvignon?

Cabernet Sauvignon is a popular wine choice due to its bold, full-bodied flavors. When pairing Cabernet Sauvignon with pizza, it is best to choose pizzas with heartier toppings such as sausage, pepperoni, or even BBQ chicken. The robust flavors of the wine can quite easily complement the savory flavors of the pizza. Just be sure to choose a Cabernet with a medium to high acidity level to help cut through the richness of the pizza.

Bringing it together

To bring it all together, there is no absolute or universal solution to the question of which wine is the best for pizza. The ideal wine pairing hinges on the kind of pizza and your individual inclination. Whether your taste buds lean towards red or white wine, there is a wine that can elevate the flavors of your favorite pizza to new heights. Therefore, the next instance you order a pizza, do not hesitate to experiment with a new wine pairing to take your eating experience to the next level.

Additionally, for those seeking a convenient and delectable wine choice, Graham + Fisk's Red Wine-In-A-Can and White Wine-In-A-Can are worth considering. Our canned options offer a hassle-free and scrumptious option for any pizza night or al fresco gathering.