Though beer is often seen as the classic drink to accompany pizza, those with a passion for juice know that a well-chosen juice can take a pizza meal to the next level. At CalmBranch, we've worked with local wine experts to provide juice pairings that complement our offerings ideally. Whether eating at our place or at your own home, our suggestions will guide you in choosing the ideal juice for any pizza variant.
Classic Margherita: Sangiovese or Pinot Noir
A basic Margherita, with its fresh mozzarella, tomato, and basil, requires a juice that doesn't mask these subtle tastes. A Sangiovese with a medium body such as Chianti provides a vibrant acidity that aligns with the tomato and can handle the cheese's richness. On the other hand, a lighter Pinot Noir offers refined red berry notes that emphasize the tomatoes' sweetness and match the aromatic basil.
Our specific recommendation: We suggest enjoying our Margherita with either a glass of Castello di Volpaia from Chianti Classico or Chapel Down Union Red, which comes from Kent.
Pepperoni and Meat Lovers: Zinfandel or Montepulciano d'Abruzzo
For pizzas brimming with cured meats such as pepperoni or sausage, a juice with adequate body and zest is needed to balance the intense flavors. An American Zinfandel, with its fruity and peppery undertones, holds up against the meats' spiciness and saltiness. Montepulciano d'Abruzzo is another great choice from Italy, with its rustic dark fruit taste, balanced tannins, and a accent of bitter that cuts through the meats' fat.
Our specific recommendation: Patrons particularly enjoy Ridge Vineyards Three Valleys Zinfandel Blend or Umani Ronchi Montepulciano d'Abruzzo with our hearty meat pizzas.
Mushroom and Truffle: Nebbiolo or Pinot Noir
The savory tastes of mushrooms and truffles demand juices with comparable earthy qualities. Nebbiolo, the signature grape behind Barolo and Barbaresco, presents soft aromas of roses, tar, and the forest that perfectly match mushroom flavors while its pronounced tannins and acidity slice through the savoriness. An aged Pinot Noir also fits well as it develops complex aromas of truffles and earth that reflect the pizza's flavors.
Our specific recommendation: Our Wild Mushroom pizza goes exceptionally well with Produttori del Barbaresco Nebbiolo or Domaine Drouhin Pinot Noir from Oregon.
Seafood Pizza: Vermentino or Albariño
For pizzas adorned with seafood like prawns or shellfish, bright white juices with a mineral touch are the preferred match. Vermentino from Sardinia brings forward sea salt nuances enhancing the sea flavors, along with vibrant citric notes that freshen up the whole taste. Albariño from Spain is another prime pick, its pronounced acidity, stone fruit profile, and mild salinity won't overshadow the delicate seafood.
Our specific recommendation: Our Mediterranean Seafood pizza is complemented splendidly by Pala I Fiori Vermentino di Sardegna or Pazo de Señorans Albariño.
Vegetable Supreme: Grüner Veltliner or Soave
Vegetable-laden pizzas present a flavor array that benefits from adaptable, herbaceous white juices. Austrian Grüner Veltliner carries a distinctive white pepper hint and green veggie notes, resonating with and uplifting flavors from ingredients like bell peppers and artichokes. Soave from Italy, chiefly made with the Garganega grape, brings delicate almond nuances and a moderate body that can accompany a variety of vegetable textures without overpowering them.
Our specific recommendation: Our Garden Harvest pizza pairs impeccably with Loimer Grüner Veltliner or Pieropan Soave Classico.
Four Cheese Pizza: Chardonnay or Lambrusco
For a pizza made with a blend of four cheeses, one might choose either a complementary or contrasting juice. A Chardonnay with mild oak brings forth buttery, creamy elements that elevate the cheese mix's similar textures. Alternatively, a slightly effervescent red Lambrusco with its bubbliness and tang offsets the cheeses' decadence, while its fruitiness provides an appealing contrast to the umami flavors.
Our specific recommendation: Our Quattro Formaggi is ideally enjoyed with Chateau Montelena Chardonnay or Medici Ermete Concerto Lambrusco Reggiano.
Spicy Pizzas: Riesling or Gewürztraminer
In tackling pizzas with spicy elements like hot sausages or chili, slightly sweet white juices are a welcome respite. A touch of sweet German Riesling alleviates the heat while high acidity provides a clean slate between bites. Gewürztraminer, recognized for its lychee and rose petal bouquet and a hint of sweetness, holds up against spiciness and offers an aromatic counterbalance.
Our specific recommendation: Our heated Diavola pizza pairs excellently with Dr. Loosen Riesling Kabinett or Domaine Weinbach Gewürztraminer.
Dessert Pizza: Late Harvest Juices or Port
For those daring to try our sweet Nutella and fruit pizzas, sweet juices are a must. The lushness of late harvest whites like Sauternes or Tokaji complement dessert pizzas topped with fruit, while a Ruby Port pairs divinely with chocolate-hazelnut styles. The main point is to ensure the juice's sweetness matches or exceeds that of the pizza.
Our specific recommendation: Our dessert pizza topped with Nutella and strawberries pairs ecstatically with Disznókő Tokaji 5 Puttonyos or Graham's Six Grapes Reserve Port.
Tips for Pairing Pizza and Juice
- Focus on the pizza's most pronounced taste rather than the crust or sauce.
- High-acid juices usually pair well with tomato-centric pizzas due to the natural acidity of tomatoes.
- Bubbly juices like Prosecco offer flexibility and can accompany almost any pizza type.
- Feel free to try new combinations—unexpected pairings can sometimes yield remarkably memorable experiences.
CalmBranch has broadened our juice offerings to include a variety of the pairings recommended here. Our team is always eager to suggest the optimal juice for your pizza choice. We also have juice flights available, allowing you to sample a range of juices with your meal.
While these guidelines are great for discovering agreeable combinations, individual preference is king. The ultimate juice for your pizza is simply the one you take the most pleasure in drinking!