As the crisp fall air settles in, there’s no better time to enjoy comforting meals paired with a selection of Italian wines. And what’s more comforting than pizza? From classic Margheritas to rich, savory creations, pizza offers endless pairing possibilities. Whether you’re cozying up at home or hosting a casual gathering, here are some standout Italian wines that perfectly complement your favorites.
Pighin Pinot Grigio & Margherita Pizza
The simplicity of a classic Margherita pizza, with its fresh tomato sauce, mozzarella, and basil, calls for a wine that can complement these clean, vibrant flavors without overwhelming them.
Pighin Pinot Grigio is a light, crisp, and refreshing white wine with notes of citrus, pear, and a hint of minerality. The wine’s acidity cuts through the creaminess of the mozzarella, while its fresh fruit flavors enhance the brightness of the tomatoes and basil. This pairing is all about balance. The light body and refreshing acidity of the Pinot Grigio keep the flavors of the Margherita pizza in focus, while the wine adds a layer of sophistication with its subtle fruit and mineral notes.
Bollini Rosé & Prosciutto Arugula Pizza
A Prosciutto Arugula pizza is a beautiful blend of savory prosciutto, fresh arugula, and a light sprinkle of Parmesan, offering a mix of salty, bitter, and peppery flavors. This pizza calls for a wine that is equally light and versatile.
Bollini Rosé is a delicate, dry rosé with aromas of strawberry, raspberry, and a touch of citrus. It’s refreshing acidity and crisp fruit flavors pair well with the salty prosciutto and peppery arugula. The bright acidity and subtle fruit of the Bollini Rosé balance the salty prosciutto while enhancing the freshness of the arugula. The wine’s light body ensures that the flavors remain balanced and not too heavy, making it a perfect fall pairing.
Salviano Castello di Titignano Turlo Umbria Rosso & Mushroom Pizza
Mushroom pizza, whether it’s topped with earthy cremini mushrooms or decadent truffles, is all about showcasing the rich, umami flavors of the fungi.
Salviano Castello di Titignano Turlo Umbria Rosso is a blend of Sangiovese and Merlot, offering deep flavors of ripe red fruit, leather, and earthy undertones. With soft tannins and balanced acidity, this wine brings out the best in a mushroom-focused pizza. The earthiness of the wine mirrors the earthy flavors of the mushrooms, while its fruit-forward profile adds complexity and contrast. The soft tannins complement the creamy texture of the cheese, creating a smooth, harmonious pairing.
Nozzole Chianti Classico Riserva & Pepperoni Pizza
The bold, spicy flavors of pepperoni demand a wine that can stand up to its intensity. A classic pepperoni pizza, with its tangy tomato sauce, rich mozzarella, and savory pepperoni, pairs best with a medium-bodied, structured wine.
Nozzole Chianti Classico Riserva is a classic Italian red wine known for its flavors of black cherry, dried herbs, and earthy undertones. With balanced tannins and a lively acidity, this Chianti enhances the richness of the pepperoni while cutting through the fat and saltiness of the cheese. Nozzole’s acidity pairs perfectly with tomato-based dishes, while its earthy, herbaceous notes add complexity to the smoky, spicy flavors of the pepperoni.
Villa Matilde Taurasi & Meat Lovers Pizza
A meat lovers pizza, loaded with sausage, ham, bacon, and pepperoni, needs a powerful wine to balance the bold, savory flavors. This pizza is rich and hearty, making it perfect for cooler fall evenings.
Villa Matilde Taurasi is a full-bodied red wine made from the Aglianico grape, boasting intense flavors of dark cherry, plum, tobacco, and leather, with a firm tannic structure and long finish. The Taurasi’s bold flavors and structured tannins make it an ideal match for the richness of a meat-heavy pizza. Its dark fruit notes complement the smoky and savory elements of the meat, while its tannins cut through the fat, leaving a balanced, satisfying finish.
As the temperatures drop, it’s the perfect time to explore heartier styles of pizza paired with wines that reflect the season’s rich and comforting flavors. These Italian wine and pizza combinations are sure to bring warmth and satisfaction to your autumn gatherings. So, fire up the grill or oven, uncork a bottle, and indulge in the ultimate comfort food and wine experience this fall!
