Top 3 Italian Wines to Pair with Pepperoni Pizza

Have you ever considered how the right wine can transform your Pizza Night from good to great? Today, we’re focusing on a classic: pepperoni pizza, and exploring three Italian wines that pair beautifully with its spicy, savory profile.

The Challenge of Pairing Wine with Pepperoni Pizza

Pepperoni pizza is a flavor powerhouse. It’s got:

• Spicy, salty pepperoni.
• Rich, melted cheese.
• Tangy tomato sauce.
• Often, a slightly oily texture.

You want the wine to complement the pizza’s flavors, not overpower them. The right wine can cut through the richness of the cheese, balance the acidity of the tomato sauce, and enhance the spices of the pepperoni. This combination demands a wine that can stand up to its bold flavors.

Our Top Three Italian Wine Choices

Let’s dive into our curated selection of Italian wines that perfectly complement pepperoni pizza:

1. Sangiovese: The Classic Companion

• • Sangiovese is the backbone of many Italian wines, particularly Chianti, but it also stands beautifully on its own. It’s also the featured wine in our Drink With Sunday Sauce wine.
  • It’s known for its high acidity and savory flavors, with notes of cherry, plum, and earthy herbs.
  • This acidity is key to cutting through the richness of the cheese and the oiliness of the pepperoni.

Think of Sangiovese as the reliable friend who always knows how to balance things out. Its versatility makes it a fantastic match for pepperoni pizza.

2. Nero d’Avola: The Sicilian Surprise 

• • Hailing from Sicily, Nero d’Avola is a medium-bodied red wine with dark fruit flavors like blackberry and plum, and a hint of spice.
  • Its slightly higher tannins and robust nature can handle the bold flavors of pepperoni.
  • Nero d’Avola adds a layer of depth and complexity to the pairing, enhancing the savory notes of the pizza.

3. Barbera d’Asti: The Acidic Ace

• • • Barbera d’Asti, from the Piedmont region, is celebrated for its high acidity and low tannins.
    • It offers bright, fruity flavors like cherry and raspberry, with a touch of spice.
    • This high acidity acts as a palate cleanser, refreshing your taste buds between bites of pizza.
    • Barbera d’Asti’s lively character makes it a vibrant and refreshing partner for pepperoni pizza.

Tips for Pairing Wine and Pizza

• Consider the flavor profile of the pizza: Different styles of pizza, such as Margherita, meat lovers, or vegetarian, have varying flavor
  profiles that can be enhanced by specific wine choices.
• Match the intensity: If the pizza is loaded with bold flavors and spices. opt for wines with enough character to stand up to them. For lighter, more delicate pizzas, choose wines that won’t overpower the subtleties of the dish.
• Balance the acidity: Pizzas with tangy tomato sauce can benefit from wines with refreshing acidity to create a harmonious balance.
• Experiment and have fun: Wine pairing is subjective, so don’t be afraid to explore and try different combinations to find your personal preferences.
• Above all else: DRINK WHAT YOU LOVE!

So, next time you order a delicious pepperoni pizza, be sure to grab a bottle of wine to elevate your pizza experience and create a memorable dining experience. Cheers to good food with great company!