Best Wine with Pizza

The right bottle for every slice, from margherita to meat lover's.

Quick answer
Pair tomato-based pizzas with high-acid Italian reds like Chianti, Sangiovese or Barbera. Try Zinfandel with pepperoni and meat pizzas, and Chardonnay or Pinot Grigio with white pizza.
Pizza
Best wine
Also try
Margherita
Chianti
Sangiovese, dry rosé
Pepperoni
Zinfandel
Barbera, Primitivo
Meat lover's
Syrah
Malbec, Montepulciano
White pizza
Chardonnay
Pinot Grigio, Prosecco
Veggie
Sauvignon Blanc
Pinot Noir
BBQ chicken
Zinfandel
Off-dry Riesling
Mushroom
Pinot Noir
Nebbiolo

Why Italian reds work so well

Tomato sauce is acidic, so it needs a wine with matching acidity. Italian reds like Chianti and Barbera have bright acidity and moderate tannins that cut through melted cheese without clashing.

Don't forget bubbles

Sparkling wine is a secret weapon with pizza: the bubbles and acidity scrub your palate after every greasy, cheesy bite. A dry Prosecco or Lambrusco is a fun choice.

Read more in our Zinfandel guide, our pasta pairing guide and our Tuscany guide.

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Pizza & Wine FAQ

Is red or white wine better with pizza?

Red usually wins with tomato-based pizzas; white is better with white pizzas and lighter veggie toppings.

What wine goes with Hawaiian pizza?

An off-dry Riesling or a fruity rosé balances the sweet pineapple and salty ham.

What's the best cheap wine for pizza night?

An inexpensive Chianti, Montepulciano d'Abruzzo or Spanish Garnacha all work well.