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Pizza Styles Ranked by Wine Pairing — New York vs Chicago vs Frozen
Sir Benedict's Verdict
Pizza, that universally loved circle of sustenance, beckons for our attention. The quintessential comfort food, revered yet often misunderstood, oscillating between the sacred rituals of New York slices and the overzealous commitment to dough in Chicago's deep dish. One would think that such a beloved dish might find itself married to equally admirable companions in the world of wine. But alas, as I survey the landscape of pizza styles, I can't help but lament that many potential pairings fall lamentably short of greatness. So, let us embark on this culinary adventure, ranking our beloved pizzas not by their toppings or crust styles, but by their wine pairings. Prepare yourself; the results may surprise you—though, given the average culinary standards, perhaps not entirely.
A classic for a reason, the Margherita Pizza pairs splendidly with Chianti Classico, harmonizing the vibrancy of its tomatoes with the wine's subtle earthiness. It's a delightful combination, but be warned: its simplicity can also bore the palate. After all, one should never mistake 'simple' for 'satisfying.'
Pepperoni Pizza, a staple in many households, finds its companion in Chianti. However, the pairing is merely adequate, like a lukewarm hand-shake at a party. The spice of the pepperoni and the acidity of the wine clash rather than dance, leaving one yearning for a more dynamic combination that could elevate this ubiquitous pie.
Surprisingly, frozen pizza emerges as a formidable contender, earning a higher score than some of its fresh counterparts. With Chianti as its companion, the wine brings a touch of class to a decidedly lowbrow meal. This pairing is akin to a fine suit on a well-worn couch—unexpectedly delightful, yet still slightly tragic.
The infamous Chicago deep dish, a culinary commitment that could rival a family heirloom, finds itself paired with Chianti. Unfortunately, this pairing does little to elevate the dense layers of cheese and toppings. It’s like pairing a heavy overcoat with shorts: impractical and ill-conceived. The richness of the dish requires a bolder wine to make any impact at all.
Cold pizza, a relic of late-night indulgence, tends to be much better than one would presume. Paired with Grillo, the wine's crispness offers a cheeky contrast to the remnants of last night’s feast. While it does not aspire to greatness, it holds a certain charm, like a well-worn book that still has stories to tell.
Hawaiian pizza, the controversial darling of the pie world, meets its match in Pinot Grigio. The wine’s refreshing acidity counters the sweetness of pineapple, creating a paradox that is both delightful and disconcerting. While this pairing works surprisingly well, it often takes a brave soul to venture into this flavor territory, much like the toppings themselves.
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In the grand hierarchy of pizza styles ranked by wine pairing, one must acknowledge the baffling complexity of human taste. While some pairings soar with unexpected grace, others crash headlong into mediocrity. If there's a lesson to be gleaned from this exploration, it is that the beauty of wine and pizza lies in their shared imperfections. Perhaps we should celebrate these culinary oddities, for in them lies the essence of what makes dining truly memorable: the unexpected, the flawed, and the downright delightful. So, the next time you slice into your preferred pizza, raise a glass to the union of flavors, however mismatched they may be; for, in the end, it’s all about finding joy in the absurdity of it all.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the best wine to pair with New York-style pizza?
New York-style pizza, with its thin, foldable crust and myriad toppings, can be delightful when accompanied by a robust red like Chianti. The acidity of the wine complements the tangy tomato sauce, enhancing the overall experience. However, if you're feeling adventurous, exploring lighter whites might yield some surprising results as well; just beware of the toppings you select, as they can drastically alter the dynamic.
Is Chicago deep dish pizza good with wine?
Chicago deep dish pizza presents a unique challenge for wine pairing due to its substantial nature. While Chianti is the standard suggestion, it often falls flat against the hearty layers of cheese and toppings. If you're aiming for a better marriage, consider a bolder wine, perhaps a Malbec or even a Zinfandel, to stand up to the richness. After all, every great culinary companion should enhance rather than overshadow.
Can I drink wine with frozen pizza?
Yes, you can drink wine with frozen pizza, and surprisingly, it might even be more enjoyable than you'd expect. Frozen pizza often pairs well with a versatile wine like Chianti, which can elevate the experience. Just remember, while frozen pizza has its charms, the wine should ideally be a little higher in character to mask the inherent flaws of the frozen crust and toppings. A good wine can turn an ordinary meal into an unexpectedly delightful affair, even if that meal comes from the depths of your freezer.
