Pizza is casual food, but the wine pairing still matters. The common thread across all pizza styles is tomato and cheese — and Italian reds, with their high acidity and savoury character, have evolved alongside these ingredients. Chianti, Barbera, and Primitivo are three Italian reds that are naturally calibrated to tomato and mozzarella. For a Margherita, a lighter red or a dry rosé is perfect. For a meatier pizza with pepperoni or sausage, a bolder Aglianico or Montepulciano is the right call. White pizza or pizza bianca pairs well with Vermentino or a crisp Pinot Grigio.
The best wines for pizza
Classic Italian
14–16°CChianti's acidity and tomato-friendly Sangiovese character make it the natural match for pizza. A young Chianti Classico — not an aged Gran Selezione — is the right call: fruit-forward and bright.
The definitive match for Margherita, Napolitana, and tomato-based pizzas.
Piedmontese Red
14–16°CBarbera d'Alba and Barbera d'Asti have extremely high acidity and very low tannin — a combination designed for tomato-based food. The wine is juicy, unpretentious, and a pleasure with pizza.
Excellent with pepperoni pizza and any richly topped pizza.
Dry Rosé
8–10°CA dry Provence rosé splits the difference between white and red — it has the freshness of white and the fruit character of red, making it universally flattering with pizza in a casual setting.
Ideal for outdoor pizza dining and lighter vegetable-topped pizzas.
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Get started — freePizza and wine — frequently asked questions
What wine goes best with pepperoni pizza?
Barbera or a young Chianti Classico are ideal. Their high acidity and medium-weight red fruit character complement the fat and spice of pepperoni without clashing. Primitivo from Puglia is another excellent choice for spicier toppings.
What wine pairs with white pizza (pizza bianca)?
White pizza's ricotta, garlic, and herb base calls for a crisp, dry white wine. Vermentino, an Alto Adige Pinot Grigio, or a Verdicchio are natural choices. Avoid red wine — the savoury, herb-forward flavours need white wine's freshness.
Is Champagne good with pizza?
Surprisingly, yes. A non-vintage Champagne's acidity and effervescence cut through cheese and tomato in an enjoyable way. It's a playful, unexpected pairing that works particularly well with simpler Margherita-style pizzas.
Does the wine need to be Italian to go with pizza?
Italian wines are the most natural match due to their acidity and flavour history alongside these dishes. But a Spanish Garnacha (Grenache), a Côtes du Rhône, or a New World Sangiovese are excellent non-Italian alternatives.