When it comes to pairing wine with pizza, many people immediately think of red wine. However, white wine can be a fantastic match for pizza, especially when paired with the right toppings and crust style. In this article, we’ll explore the world of pizza and white wine pairing, highlighting the best combinations and providing tips for finding your perfect match.
Understanding White Wine
Before we dive into pizza pairing, it’s essential to understand the basics of white wine. White wine is made from white or red grapes that are fermented without their skins, resulting in a clear or pale yellow wine. The flavor profile of white wine can range from crisp and citrusy to rich and oaky, depending on the grape variety, region, and winemaking techniques.
Popular White Wine Varieties
Some popular white wine varieties that pair well with pizza include:
- Chardonnay: A buttery and oaky wine with flavors of apple, pear, and vanilla.
- Sauvignon Blanc: A crisp and refreshing wine with citrus, green apple, and grassy notes.
- Pinot Grigio: A light and crisp wine with flavors of lemon, lime, and honeysuckle.
- Riesling: A white wine with high acidity and flavors of green apple, peach, and honey.
Pizza Styles and White Wine Pairing
When it comes to pairing white wine with pizza, the style of pizza is crucial. Different pizza styles have unique flavor profiles that can complement or clash with white wine. Here are some popular pizza styles and their white wine pairing recommendations:
Neapolitan Pizza
Neapolitan pizza is a classic style that originated in Naples, Italy. It’s characterized by a thin crust, soft center, and fresh toppings such as tomato, mozzarella, and basil. For Neapolitan pizza, a crisp and refreshing white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc pairs perfectly.
Recommended White Wines for Neapolitan Pizza:
- Pinot Grigio: Its crisp acidity cuts through the richness of the mozzarella and tomato sauce.
- Sauvignon Blanc: Its citrus and grassy notes complement the fresh flavors of the basil and tomato.
New York-Style Pizza
New York-style pizza is a classic American style that’s known for its thin crust, foldable slices, and savory toppings. For New York-style pizza, a richer and more full-bodied white wine like Chardonnay or Riesling pairs well.
Recommended White Wines for New York-Style Pizza:
- Chardonnay: Its buttery and oaky notes complement the rich flavors of the cheese and sauce.
- Riesling: Its high acidity cuts through the richness of the cheese and meat toppings.
California-Style Pizza
California-style pizza is a modern style that’s known for its non-traditional toppings and flavor combinations. For California-style pizza, a crisp and refreshing white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio pairs well.
Recommended White Wines for California-Style Pizza:
- Sauvignon Blanc: Its citrus and grassy notes complement the fresh flavors of the toppings.
- Pinot Grigio: Its crisp acidity cuts through the richness of the cheese and sauce.
Toppings and White Wine Pairing
When it comes to pairing white wine with pizza, the toppings can make or break the combination. Here are some popular pizza toppings and their white wine pairing recommendations:
Meat Toppings
- Pepperoni: A spicy and savory topping that pairs well with a rich and full-bodied white wine like Chardonnay.
- Sausage: A meaty and savory topping that pairs well with a crisp and refreshing white wine like Pinot Grigio.
- Bacon: A smoky and savory topping that pairs well with a rich and oaky white wine like Chardonnay.
Recommended White Wines for Meat Toppings:
- Chardonnay: Its buttery and oaky notes complement the rich flavors of the meat.
- Pinot Grigio: Its crisp acidity cuts through the richness of the meat.
Vegetable Toppings
- Mushrooms: An earthy and savory topping that pairs well with a rich and full-bodied white wine like Chardonnay.
- Onions: A sweet and savory topping that pairs well with a crisp and refreshing white wine like Sauvignon Blanc.
- Bell Peppers: A sweet and crunchy topping that pairs well with a crisp and refreshing white wine like Pinot Grigio.
Recommended White Wines for Vegetable Toppings:
- Chardonnay: Its buttery and oaky notes complement the earthy flavors of the mushrooms.
- Sauvignon Blanc: Its citrus and grassy notes complement the sweet flavors of the onions and bell peppers.
Conclusion
Pairing white wine with pizza can be a fun and delicious experience. By understanding the basics of white wine and the different pizza styles and toppings, you can find your perfect match. Remember to experiment with different combinations and find what works best for you. Whether you’re a fan of classic Neapolitan pizza or modern California-style pizza, there’s a white wine out there that’s sure to complement your favorite pie.
Final Tips and Recommendations
- Experiment with different white wine varieties and pizza styles to find your perfect match.
- Consider the toppings and flavor profile of the pizza when selecting a white wine.
- Don’t be afraid to try new and unusual combinations – you might be surprised at what works well together!
- If you’re looking for a safe bet, try pairing a crisp and refreshing white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc with a classic Neapolitan or New York-style pizza.
By following these tips and recommendations, you’ll be well on your way to becoming a pizza and white wine pairing expert. So go ahead, grab a slice and a glass, and enjoy the perfect match!
What makes white wine a good pairing for pizza?
White wine is a good pairing for pizza because of its crisp acidity, which helps cut through the richness of the cheese and savory flavors of the sauce and various toppings. The acidity in white wine also complements the brightness of fresh vegetables and herbs often used as pizza toppings. Additionally, white wine tends to be lighter-bodied, making it a refreshing match for the casual, comforting nature of pizza.
When pairing white wine with pizza, consider the specific flavors and ingredients used in the pizza. For example, a buttery and oaky Chardonnay pairs well with rich and savory toppings like mushrooms and caramelized onions, while a crisp and citrusy Pinot Grigio pairs well with lighter toppings like fresh vegetables and seafood.
What are some popular white wines for pairing with pizza?
Some popular white wines for pairing with pizza include Pinot Grigio, Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, and Riesling. Pinot Grigio is a crisp and refreshing Italian white wine that pairs well with lighter toppings like fresh vegetables and seafood. Chardonnay is a buttery and oaky white wine that pairs well with rich and savory toppings like mushrooms and caramelized onions. Sauvignon Blanc is a citrusy and grassy white wine that pairs well with fresh and herbaceous toppings like basil and arugula.
Riesling is a white wine with high acidity that pairs well with spicy toppings like pepperoni and jalapenos. These are just a few examples, and the best pairing will ultimately depend on personal taste and the specific flavors and ingredients used in the pizza. Experimenting with different white wines and pizza combinations can help find the perfect match.
How does the type of crust affect the pairing of white wine with pizza?
The type of pizza crust can affect the pairing of white wine with pizza. A thin and crispy crust, like Neapolitan-style pizza, pairs well with crisp and refreshing white wines like Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc. A thicker and chewier crust, like Sicilian-style pizza, pairs well with richer and more full-bodied white wines like Chardonnay and Gewürztraminer.
The type of sauce used on the pizza can also affect the pairing. A tomato-based sauce pairs well with white wines that have high acidity, like Pinot Grigio and Sauvignon Blanc, while a pesto or olive oil-based sauce pairs well with white wines that have a richer and more herbaceous flavor profile, like Chardonnay and Vermentino.
Can I pair white wine with meat-lovers pizza?
Yes, white wine can be paired with meat-lovers pizza, but the pairing may not be as traditional as pairing red wine with meat-lovers pizza. A rich and full-bodied white wine like Chardonnay or Gewürztraminer can pair well with the savory flavors of meats like pepperoni and sausage. The buttery and oaky flavors in these white wines can complement the richness of the meats and the cheese.
However, if the meat-lovers pizza has spicy toppings like pepperoni or jalapenos, a white wine with high acidity like Riesling or Pinot Grigio may be a better pairing. The acidity in these white wines can help cut through the spiciness of the toppings and balance the flavors of the pizza.
How does the region of the white wine affect the pairing with pizza?
The region of the white wine can affect the pairing with pizza. White wines from Italy, like Pinot Grigio and Vermentino, tend to be crisp and refreshing, making them a good pairing for lighter toppings like fresh vegetables and seafood. White wines from France, like Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, tend to be richer and more full-bodied, making them a good pairing for richer toppings like mushrooms and caramelized onions.
White wines from Germany, like Riesling, tend to have high acidity, making them a good pairing for spicy toppings like pepperoni and jalapenos. White wines from the United States, like Chardonnay and Sauvignon Blanc, can have a wide range of flavor profiles, making them a versatile pairing option for a variety of pizza toppings.
Can I pair white wine with vegetarian pizza?
Yes, white wine can be paired with vegetarian pizza. A crisp and refreshing white wine like Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc can pair well with lighter toppings like fresh vegetables and herbs. The acidity in these white wines can help cut through the brightness of the vegetables and balance the flavors of the pizza.
A richer and more full-bodied white wine like Chardonnay or Gewürztraminer can pair well with vegetarian pizzas that have richer toppings like roasted vegetables or eggplant. The buttery and oaky flavors in these white wines can complement the richness of the toppings and the cheese.
How can I learn more about pairing white wine with pizza?
There are several ways to learn more about pairing white wine with pizza. One way is to experiment with different white wines and pizza combinations to find the perfect match. Another way is to read reviews and articles from wine experts and pizza enthusiasts to get recommendations and insights.
Additionally, many wine shops and restaurants offer wine and pizza pairing events and classes, which can be a great way to learn from experts and taste different pairings. Online resources like wine websites and social media can also provide a wealth of information and inspiration for pairing white wine with pizza.