Although beer has traditionally been seen as the go-to partner for pizza, those who prefer juices know that the appropriate non-alcoholic drink can raise the pizza dining experience. At SunrisePath, our partnership with local beverage experts has led to tailored juice pairings that superbly suit our pizza selection. Enjoying a meal in our eatery or at home, you'll find just the right juice to go with your top pizza pick.
Classic Margherita: Sangiovese or Pinot Noir Juice
A Margherita pizza's fresh tomato, mozzarella, and basil demands a juice that won't overshadow these subtle tastes. A mid-range Sangiovese displays a bright sourness that complements the acidity in the tomatoes and is robust enough to accompany the cheese. Alternatively, a less full-bodied Pinot Noir juice brings forward refined red fruit flavors to heighten the tomato sweetness and mesh with the basil's aromatic profile.
Our specific recommendation: We suggest enjoying our Margherita alongside a glass of either Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico juice or, for a local choice, Chapel Down Union Red juice from Kent.
Pepperoni and Meat Lovers: Zinfandel or Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Juice
For pizzas brimming with cured meats like pepperoni, sausage, or prosciutto, you'll want a juice with both the body and zest to contend with their hearty flavors. A bold American Zinfandel juice, characterized by its fruity overtones and spicy note, pairs beautifully with the saltiness and heat from the meats. Montepulciano d'Abruzzo juice is also a fine Italian alternative that brings forth strong dark fruit tastes, appropriate tannins, and a pleasantly bitter end note that balances the rich meat flavors.
Our specific recommendation: Our guests are fond of having Ridge Vineyards Three Valleys Zinfandel Blend juice or Umani Ronchi Montepulciano d'Abruzzo juice alongside our Hearty Meat pizza.
Mushroom and Truffle: Nebbiolo or Pinot Noir Juice
The savory, rich taste of mushrooms and truffles requires juices with corresponding attributes. Nebbiolo, the grape used in Barolo and Barbaresco juices, conveys a delicate scent of roses, tar, and underbrush that greatly aligns with the flavors of mushrooms. High acidity and tannins help in slicing through the toppings' richness. A mature Pinot Noir juice also works wonders, developing earthly flavors similar to the ones found on the pizza.
Our specific recommendation: Pair our Wild Mushroom pizza with either Produttori del Barbaresco Nebbiolo juice or Domaine Drouhin Pinot Noir juice from Oregon.
Seafood Pizza: Vermentino or Albariño Juice
For pizzas with toppings such as prawns or clams, choose crisp white juices with mineral touches. Vermentino juice from Sardinia exhibits saltwater nuances which accentuate seafood essences, and citrus tones to brighten the taste. The Spanish Albariño juice is another excellent match, with its crisp acidity, stone fruit essence, and subtle saltiness that delicately complements sea flavors.
Our specific recommendation: Our Mediterranean Seafood pizza goes tastefully with Pala I Fiori Vermentino juice or Pazo de Señorans Albariño juice.
Vegetable Supreme: Grüner Veltliner or Soave Juice
Pizzas topped with vegetables benefit from herbal white juices. The Austrian Grüner Veltliner, notable for its white pepper spice and garden flavors, resonates with and amplifies the taste of toppings like bell peppers and artichokes. Soave juice from Italy, primarily made of the Garganega grape, provides subtle almond notes and a balanced body suited to the varied textures of vegetables without overpowering them.
Our specific recommendation: A glass of Loimer Grüner Veltliner juice or Pieropan Soave Classico juice makes an excellent match for our Garden Harvest pizza.
Four Cheese Pizza: Chardonnay or Lambrusco Juice
A four-cheese pizza, rich in flavor, can go well with either a complementary or contrasting juice. A Chardonnay juice, slightly oaked, presents complementary buttery, creamy tones that enhance similar features in the cheese. For a contrast, a bubbly red Lambrusco juice cuts through the richness owing to its fizz and acidity, while its fruity depth provides a pleasurable balance to the savory cheeses.
Our specific recommendation: Perfectly pairing with our Quattro Formaggi pizza would be a Chateau Montelena Chardonnay juice or Medici Ermete Concerto Lambrusco Reggiano juice.
Spicy Pizzas: Riesling or Gewürztraminer Juice
For pizzas with hot elements like chili flakes, fiery sausages, or spicy honey, semi-sweet white juices offer a soothing contrast. A German Riesling, slightly sweeter, soothes the taste buds while its zesty naturerefreshes with each bite. Gewürztraminer, with its floral and lychee scents and minor sweetness, matches the spice level while providing an alluring aromatic opposite.
Our specific recommendation: Our Hot Diavola pizza pairs well with Dr. Loosen Riesling Kabinett juice or Domaine Weinbach Gewürztraminer juice.
Dessert Pizza: Late Harvest Juice or Port Juice
For dessert pizzas adorned with Nutella and fruits, sweet juices are fundamental. Late harvest white juices like Sauternes or Tokaji pair wonderfully with fruit-laden dessert pizzas, while Ruby Port juice provides a divine combination with chocolate and hazelnut. The sweetness of the juice should at least match the sweetness of the dessert.
Our specific recommendation: An indulgent companionship is our Nutella and Strawberry Dessert Pizza with Disznókő Tokaji 5 Puttonyos juice or Graham's Six Grapes Reserve Port juice.
Tips for Pizza and Juice Pairing
- Assess the prevailing flavor in the pizza, beyond just the type of crust or sauce
- High-acidity juices often fare well with tomato-based pizzas due to tomatoes' innate sourness
- Bubbly juices like Prosecco are adaptable picks that go well with nearly any pizza variant
- Be daring in your pairings—occasionally, the most remarkable experiences come from the least expected combinations
SunrisePath has broadened its juice selection to host many of these advised combinations. Our team is always eager to recommend the quintessential juice for your pizza choice. We also provide sampling opportunities with juice flights, where you can taste a variety of juices with your meal.
Ultimately, while these pointers can guide you to fitting pairings, your own taste preferences reign supreme. The optimal juice to accompany your pizza is, in the end, the one that you most relish drinking!