Dear Pizza Lovers,
Are you a lover of Italian cuisine? Is pizza one of your all-time favorite foods? If you nodded your head in agreement, then you’re in for a treat. In this blog post, we’ll explore whether Sangiovese is the ultimate wine for pizza lovers. We’ll also detail how Sangiovese enhances the flavors of the pizza, the history of Sangiovese, and what makes it stand out among the crowd of other Italian wines.
Without further ado, let’s dive in!
Table of Contents
1. What is Sangiovese?
2. The History of Sangiovese
3. Characteristics and Taste Profile of Sangiovese
4. The Best Sangiovese Wines to Pair with Pizza
5. How Sangiovese Enhances the Flavors of Pizza
6. Sangiovese vs. Other Italian Wines
7. Conclusion: Sangiovese and Pizza Make the Perfect Pair
8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
1. What is Sangiovese?
Sangiovese is a red wine grape that is the most planted grape variety in Italy. It is believed to be indigenous to central Italy, the region that includes Tuscany, Umbria, and the Brunello di Montalcino regions. Sangiovese is also widely grown in Argentina, Australia, California, and Chile. It is a versatile grape that can produce a wide range of wines, from light-bodied and fruity to full-bodied with a velvety texture.
2. The History of Sangiovese
The name Sangiovese is believed to have originated from the Latin phrase “Sanguis Jovis,” which translates to “the blood of Jove.” This refers to the ancient Roman god Jupiter, who was honored by the planting of Sangiovese vines on his feast day. Sangiovese has been grown in Italy for more than 2,000 years. It was favored by the Etruscans and later by the Romans, who used it to make wines that were famous for their balance and fruitiness.
3. Characteristics and Taste Profile of Sangiovese
Sangiovese is a grape that can be grown in many different climates. Depending on the region, the flavor profile can range from subtle and delicate to full-bodied and rich. One of the unique characteristics of Sangiovese is its high acidity, which gives it a crisp and refreshing taste. It is also known for its somewhat bitter finish, which is often described as having a hint of coffee or chocolate.
Sangiovese wines also have a tannic texture, which means that they pair well with foods that are rich in flavors and textures, such as pizza. The wine also has a high alcohol content, which can range from 12% to 15%, making it strong enough to stand up to the bold flavors of pizza.
4. The Best Sangiovese Wines to Pair with Pizza
When it comes to pairing Sangiovese with pizza, there are many different options to choose from. Some of the best Sangiovese wines to pair with pizza include Chianti, Brunello di Montalcino, and Morellino di Scansano.
Chianti is a classic wine that is made from the Sangiovese grape. It is grown in the Chianti region of Tuscany and is known for its bright acidity and earthy undertones. Chianti pairs well with thin-crust pizza that has a tomato-based sauce and is topped with fresh herbs, such as basil and oregano.
Brunello di Montalcino is another excellent choice for pizza. This wine is made using the Sangiovese Grosso grape and is grown in the Montalcino region of Tuscany. It is a full-bodied wine that has smooth tannins and a long finish. Brunello di Montalcino pairs well with pizza that is topped with cured meats, such as prosciutto or salami, and hard cheeses, such as Parmesan or Asiago.
Morellino di Scansano is a Sangiovese-based wine that is grown in the Scansano region of Tuscany. It is a medium-bodied wine that has a fruity aroma and a smooth finish. Morellino di Scansano pairs well with pizza that is topped with vegetables, such as roasted peppers or onions, and soft cheeses, such as mozzarella or goat cheese.
5. How Sangiovese Enhances the Flavors of Pizza
Sangiovese enhances the flavors of pizza by complementing its bold and spicy flavors. The acidity in the wine helps to cut through the richness of the cheese and sauce, while the tannins provide a velvety texture that balances the flavors of the pizza. The wine also has a hint of bitterness that pairs well with the saltiness of the cheese and the tanginess of the tomato sauce.
Another reason Sangiovese is such a good match for pizza is that it has a high level of acidity, which helps to cleanse the palate between bites. This makes it easier to appreciate the flavors of the pizza and to enjoy the entire meal without feeling overwhelmed.
6. Sangiovese vs. Other Italian Wines
While Sangiovese is the most popular wine for pizza pairing, there are other Italian wines that can also be enjoyed with pizza. For example, Valpolicella, Nero d’Avola, and Barbera are all great options.
Valpolicella is a red wine that is grown in the Veneto region of Italy. It is made using three different grape varieties: Corvina, Rondinella, and Molinara. Valpolicella is a light-bodied wine that has a fruity aroma and a gentle finish. It pairs well with pizza that is topped with mushrooms, olives, or anchovies.
Nero d’Avola is a red wine that is grown in the Sicily region of Italy. It is a full-bodied wine that has a rich and complex flavor profile. Nero d’Avola pairs well with pizza that is topped with spicy sausage, grilled vegetables, or pepperoni.
Barbera is a red wine that is grown in the Piedmont region of Italy. It is a medium-bodied wine that has a high acidity and a low tannin content. Barbera pairs well with pizza that is topped with tomato sauce, garlic, and basil.
7. Conclusion: Sangiovese and Pizza Make the Perfect Pair
Sangiovese is the ultimate wine for pizza lovers because it enhances the flavors of the pizza while also providing a refreshing and enjoyable experience. It is a versatile grape that can be grown in many different regions, and it pairs well with a variety of pizza toppings. Whether you prefer a thin-crust pizza with fresh herbs or a deep-dish pizza with spicy sausage, Sangiovese is the perfect wine to elevate your pizza experience.
8. Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)
Q: Can any Sangiovese wine pair well with pizza?
A: While all Sangiovese wines share some common characteristics, the specific flavor profile of a wine can vary depending on the region in which it is grown. It is best to look for Sangiovese wines that are specifically recommended for pairing with pizza, such as Chianti or Morellino di Scansano.
Q: What makes Sangiovese different from other Italian wines?
A: Sangiovese is unique because it has a high level of acidity, which gives it a crisp and refreshing taste, and the wines made from this grape tend to have a bitter finish that complements the flavors of pizza.
Q: What types of pizza does Sangiovese pair best with?
A: Sangiovese pairs well with a wide variety of pizza toppings. Some of the most popular pairings include thin-crust pizza with tomato sauce and fresh herbs, deep-dish pizza with spicy sausage, and vegetable pizza with goat cheese.
In conclusion, Sangiovese is the ultimate wine for pizza lovers due to its refreshing taste, unique characteristics, and versatility. Whether you prefer a classic thin-crust pizza or a hearty deep-dish pizza, Sangiovese is the perfect wine to elevate your dining experience. So, the next time you’re enjoying a slice of pizza, don’t forget to grab a bottle of Sangiovese to complete the perfect pairing.
Cheers!
Image Credit: Pexels