The Ultimate Guide to Pizza and Wine Pairings

Are you a pizza lover and wine aficionado? Do you ever wonder if you're choosing the best combination between your favorite pies and that perfect bottle of vino? Worry no longer - this guide shows you how easy it can be to make the ideal pairing of pizza and wine! We've done all the hard work for you, researching tasty flavor combinations to guide your decision. So whether you like traditional classic pizzas or distinctively unique creations, we'll help you find your ideal wine pairing.

Cheese Pizza

The ideal wine for cheese pizza is a light-bodied red wine such as Pinot Noir. The cheese flavors in your pizza will complement the fruity and earthy tones of Pinot Noir, creating a mellow yet complex flavor. Chianti Classico and Merlot are also excellent options for cheese pizza. White wines that go with cheese pizza include Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Grigio, and Chardonnay. These crisp whites will cut through the cheese flavors of your pizza and bring out its salty notes.

Vegetable Pizza

For a vegetable pizza, we suggest pairing it with a light-bodied, crisp red wine as the bright acidity of these wines will bring out the freshness of the vegetables and amplify their flavors without overpowering them. Alternatively, Rosé and Chardonnay can also be great accompaniments to vegetable pizza, adding complexity to the dish with their floral, oak, and citrus notes.

Pepperoni Pizza

You'll want to opt for a full-bodied red like Cabernet Sauvignon or bold, super Tuscan for a pepperoni pizza. The boldness of the pepperoni pairs perfectly with the strong tannins in these wines. These deep, rich flavors will contrast nicely with the slight spice from the pepperoni, creating a unique flavor experience. A Zinfandel is also an excellent option for pepperoni pizza. If you'd prefer a white, opt for a Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio - these light wines will balance out the salty pepperoni flavors.

Breakfast Pizza

If your pizza is topped with eggs, bacon/sausage, and cheese, a dry sparkling wine such as Prosecco is the perfect complement. The sweetness of the bubbles will bring out the smoky flavors of your pizza while still providing a smooth finish. If you'd prefer something non-sparkling, opt for a light-bodied white like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. These refreshing wines will create an exciting flavor contrast with your pizza's salty meat and smoky notes.

Salad Pizza

For a salad pizza, we suggest pairing it with a light-bodied white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. The citrus and herbaceous flavors of these wines will bring out the freshness of the vegetables and create an interesting flavor contrast. Alternatively, you can go for a lighter red like Pinot Noir. These smooth, light-bodied wines will balance out the tartness of the salad and bring out its earthy flavors.

Hot Oil Pizza

You'll want to opt for a bold, super Tuscan or Cabernet Sauvignon for a hot oil pizza. These full-bodied wines will stand up to the spiciness of your pizza and provide a smooth finish. You can also opt for a full-bodied white wine like Chardonnay. The richness of these wines will balance out the heat from the oil and bring out the subtle herb flavors in your pizza.

Now that you know how to pair your favorite pizzas with the perfect bottle of wine, it's time to partake! With a few simple tips, you can ensure your pizza and wine pairings will be spot-on. So order your favorite thin-crust pizza from Colony Grill - whether it's our signature 'hot oil,' salad pizza, breakfast pie, or a personalized bar pie - and enjoy it with that bottle. Happy pairing!