With National Pizza Day lining up perfectly with Super Bowl Sunday this year, what could be better than enjoying a delicious pie while rooting for your favorite team? As many fans gear up for the big game, the question arises: what to serve at their viewing parties? While traditional game day favorites like chicken wings, nachos, and chili are perennial hits, pizza stands out as a versatile option that pairs seamlessly with various wines, making it a crowd-pleaser during this festive occasion.
Pizza is not merely a food item; it has evolved into an iconic symbol of leisure and celebration. The beauty of pizza lies in its adaptability—the variety of toppings and styles caters to nearly every palate. On any weeknight or special occasion, I indulge in this delectable dish, finding solace in those cheesy, tomato-laden slices that help me unwind after a long week. While the toppings may vary from classic pepperoni to gourmet variants loaded with unique ingredients, my wine preferences remain quite predictable: I gravitate towards easy-drinking reds, predominantly from Italy.
In the spirit of National Pizza Day and Super Bowl Sunday, I’ve curated a selection of Italian wines that are ideal for pairing with your pizza feast. These wines strike a balance of flavor complexity, smoothness, and compatibility, ensuring that they elevate your dining experience amid the excitement of the game.
**Badia a Coltibuono 2021 Chianti Classico DOCG**
This organic Sangiovese-based wine offers a bright profile highlighted by hints of cooked strawberries and cedar notes. Its crisp acidity, reminiscent of citrusy blood oranges, creates a refreshing palate cleanser between bites of pizza, especially those with tomato-based sauces.
**Carpineto 2019 Chianti Classico Riserva DOCG**
Known for its robust flavor, this wine features prominent notes of tart red fruits and a smooth, earthy aroma. The combination of Sangiovese and Canaiolo grapes produces a well-rounded blend that sensationally complements both classic and inventive pizza toppings. Whether absorbed with meaty roasted fish or delicious roasted vegetables, this wine offers versatility that enhances any dish.
**Castello di Fonterutoli Mazzei Siepi 2018 Toscana IGT**
For those looking to treat themselves to a wine that packs a punch, the Siepi is a standout 50/50 blend of Sangiovese and Merlot. Its complex flavor profile includes stewed strawberries and a hint of chocolate and spice, setting it apart as a bold choice for heartier pizzas loaded with spicy pepperoni or wild boar sausage.
Venturing beyond the classic choices, we can discover unique and engaging wines that can invigorate our pizza experience while introducing an element of surprise to the evening.
**Donnafugata “Fragore” Contrada Montelaguardia 2019, Etna Rosso DOC**
This wine embodies the vibrant essence of Sicily, with intense flavors of dark fruits and hints of forest notes deriving from the Nerello Mascalese grapes. Its refined and elegant nature not only complements pizzas with wood-fired crusts but also pairs well with earthy toppings like mushrooms.
**Garofoli Rosso Piancarda 2022, Conero DOC**
Affordable and inviting, this Montepulciano blends ripe Morello cherries, plum, and strawberry preserves. The mineral streak and crisp acidity contribute to a universally appealing profile that tastes fantastic when served on a casual game night.
**Librandi Segno Cirò DOC Rosso Classico**
As a light-bodied wine bursting with crunchy fruits like blueberries and cranberries, this gem also offers a hint of spice perfect for those lighter or veggie pizzas. Its easy-going character ensures it can cater to diverse preferences at any gathering.
As we gather to celebrate National Pizza Day and revel in the excitement of Super Bowl Sunday, the combination of flavorful pizza and exquisite wines amplifies our culinary adventure. Whether you lean toward classic Italian wines or choose to step outside the box with newer varietals, there’s an abundance of options to pair beautifully with your pizza, ensuring a memorable experience for everyone in attendance. Raise a glass to a game filled with camaraderie, delicious food, and, of course, a few slices of pizza!