Italian Pizza Drink Pairings: Traditional and Modern Choices

Pizza, the unrivaled Italian staple, is often enjoyed solo, with friends, or as a sumptuous feast. But how do Italians typically pair their pizzas with drinks? This article explores the traditional and modern drink pairings that complement the diverse array of pizza toppings, from classic Italian to global variations.

Wine: The Classic pairing

Red Wine

A classic choice for pizza lovers who enjoy intense and flavorful toppings. Red wines, especially those with robust flavors, pair excellently with pizzas that feature rich meats such as pepperoni, salami, and various sausages.

Some popular red wine choices include:

Chianti: Known for its balance of tannins and a fruity finish, Chianti complements heavy meat toppings perfectly. Nero d'Avola: A wine with a robust structure and a hint of dark fruits, making it an excellent match for equally intense pizza toppings.

White Wine

Lighter pizzas, often featuring seafood or fresh vegetables, pair well with a crisp white wine. These wines cleanse the palate between bites of the pizza, enhancing its overall flavor.

Popular white wine options include:

Pinot Grigio: A dry, refreshing white wine that pairs nicely with light pizzas. Vermentino: With its citrus and herbal notes, Vermentino is a great match for pizzas with seafood or light vegetable toppings.

Beer: A Traditional Favorite

Italian lager, or “birra,” is strongly favored by Italians when pairing with pizza. This preference is often attributed to the traditional saying “Pizza e Birra,” which literally means “Pizza and Beer.”

A few local craft beers and well-known Italian brands like Peroni and Moretti are widely enjoyed. These beers bring a crisp and refreshing taste to the pizza, complementing its flavors and textures.

Soft Drinks and Water

Soft Drinks

Not all Italian pizza fans opt for fine wine or beer. Soft drinks, particularly Coca-Cola, are a popular choice among younger generations. Other Italian sodas are also refreshing and can be enjoyed alongside pizza, adding a fun twist to the dining experience.

Water

Both still and sparkling water are commonly served with pizza. Carbonated water is ideal for quenching thirst and helping cleanse the palate. Still water can also be a preferred choice, especially for those who prefer a more subtle refreshing effect.

Aperitivo: An Inviting Start

Before digging into pizza, many Italians enjoy an aperitivo. Popular aperitif options include:

Sprite Aperol: A refreshing and lightly bitter drink that pairs well with pizza, especially those with a bright, citrusy flavor. Campari: A strong, herbal aperitif that provides a bold and complex taste, enhancing the flavors of the pizza.

Aperitivo might be enjoyed before or alongside pizza, creating a delightful and sociable atmosphere for dining.

Conclusion: The choice of drink for pizza often depends on the type of pizza and personal preference. However, wine and beer remain the most traditional pairings in Italian culture. Italians enjoy a variety of drinks with pizza, ensuring that each choice complements and enhances the flavors and experiences of the dish.