When it comes to the best red wine food pairings, pizza and red wine are a match made in culinary heaven. The rich, savory flavors of pizza combined with the complex profiles of red wine create an unforgettable dining experience. Here are some tips and recommendations from the Jacques Scott Wines & Spirits experts for achieving the perfect red wine and pizza pairing.
Classic Margherita Pizza
With its simple combination of tomato, mozzarella, and basil, a Margherita pizza pairs beautifully with a light to medium-bodied red wine. Pinot Noir is an excellent choice. Its bright acidity and subtle fruit flavors complement the tomato sauce’s freshness and the mozzarella’s creaminess without overwhelming the delicate flavors.
Pepperoni Pizza
The spicy, savory flavor of pepperoni calls for a wine that can withstand its intensity. Zinfandel is a fantastic match. Its bold, fruity character and hint of spice harmonize with the pepperoni, enhancing the overall taste experience. The wine’s moderate tannins help cut through the pepperoni’s fat, balancing the flavors.
Sausage and Mushroom Pizza
Sausage and mushroom pizza offers a hearty and earthy flavor profile. Shiraz works wonderfully with this combination. The wine’s rich, dark fruit flavors and peppery notes complement the savory sausage and the umami of the mushrooms, creating a satisfying and robust pairing.
BBQ Chicken Pizza
With its sweet and tangy sauce, BBQ chicken pizza pairs best with a wine with sweetness and spice. Malbec is an ideal choice. Its dark fruit flavors, moderate tannins, and a hint of spice harmonize with the BBQ sauce, enhancing the smoky and savory flavors of the chicken.
Veggie Pizza
A versatile wine is key for a veggie pizza loaded with a variety of vegetables. Merlot fits the bill perfectly. Its soft tannins and medium body, along with its fruity and herbal notes, complement the diverse flavors of the vegetables without overpowering them.
Four Cheese Pizza
A rich and creamy four-cheese pizza with a blend of cheeses pairs well with a wine with enough acidity to cut through the richness. Chianti is an excellent match. Its high acidity and cherry flavors balance the creaminess of the cheese, creating a harmonious pairing.
Meat Lover’s Pizza
A meat lover’s pizza, loaded with various types of meat like sausage, pepperoni, and bacon, requires a wine that can handle its bold flavors. Cabernet Sauvignon is a perfect choice. Its full body, high tannins, and dark fruit flavors complement the savory and fatty meats, enhancing the overall flavor experience.
White Pizza
A white pizza, typically made with a garlic and olive oil base instead of tomato sauce, pairs well with a wine with a good balance of acidity and fruit. Barbera is an ideal choice. Its high acidity and red fruit flavors complement the garlic and cheese, creating a delightful pairing.
Let Us Tell You More
Pairing red wine with pizza is an art that can elevate your dining experience to new heights. By considering the flavors and ingredients of your pizza, you can select a wine that enhances and complements each bite. Whether you prefer a classic Margherita or a loaded meat lover’s pizza, a red wine will perfectly match your meal. Enjoy exploring these pairings and discovering your favorites.
You can find out more by calling Jacques Scott Wines & Spirits at (345) 949-0277 or contacting us online.
