Though traditionally beer is the go-to beverage for enjoying pizza, juice aficionados are well-aware that the appropriate juice pairing can transcend the pizza dining experience to a higher culinary level. At FutureMesh, in collaboration with local juice specialists, we have curated a selection of juice recommendations that flawlessly accompany our menu. Whether you're indulging at our eatery or in the comfort of your own home, these pairings will ensure you select the ideal juice for the pizza you adore.
Traditional Margherita: Sangiovese or Pinot Noir
The classic Margherita pizza, with its elemental toppings of ripe tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil, requires a juice that respects these subtle tastes. A Sangiovese with a moderate body, like Chianti, mirrors the tanginess of the tomatoes and balances the cheesiness. A Pinot Noir, on the lighter side, introduces a grace of red fruit flavors that accentuate the tomatoes' sweetness and harmonize with the fresh basil.
Our specific suggestion: We favor our Margherita paired with Castello di Volpaia Chianti Classico, or a closer option, Chapel Down Union Red from Kent.
Pepperoni and Meat Lovers: Zinfandel or Montepulciano d'Abruzzo
Hearty pizzas topped with cured meats like pepperoni, sausage, or prosciutto benefit from juices with sufficient spice and body to contend with their robust tastes. An American Zinfandel, known for its fruity, jam-like essence and peppery finish, complements the savories and spice of meat toppings. Montepulciano d'Abruzzo, from Italy, presents an earthy dark fruit palate, balanced tannins, and a subtly bitter endnote to slice through the meaty richness.
Our specific suggestion: Patrons particularly relish the Ridge Vineyards Three Valleys Zinfandel Blend or Umani Ronchi Montepulciano d'Abruzzo alongside our Meat Lovers' pizza.
Mushroom and Truffle: Nebbiolo or Pinot Noir
Earthy, savory tastes from mushrooms and truffles beg for juices that offer parallel notes. Nebbiolo, the varietal behind Barolo and Barbaresco, reveals delicate flavors of roses, tar, and the forest floor that splendidly match mushroom flavors. Its marked acidity and tannic nature cut the richness well. An aged Pinot Noir can be equally delightful, as it grows notes of mushrooms and the underbrush that echo those present on the pizza.
Our specific suggestion: Our Wild Mushroom pizza goes excellently with Produttori del Barbaresco Nebbiolo or Domaine Drouhin Pinot Noir from Oregon.
Seafood Pizza: Vermentino or Albariño
Pizzas featuring oceanic delights like prawns and clams are perfectly escorted by crisp, mineral-forward white juices. Vermentino from Sardinia showcases a saline freshness that elevates the seafood tastes, coupled with citrus accents for a refreshing taste. Albariño from Spain is yet another stellar pair, providing bracing acidity, a stone fruit profile, and a hint of salinity that won't overshadow the subtle seafood.
Our specific suggestion: Our Mediterranean Seafood pizza complements divinely with Pala I Fiori Vermentino di Sardegna or Pazo de Señorans Albariño.
Vegetable Supreme: Grüner Veltliner or Soave
A pizza laden with vegetables benefits from adaptable, herby white juices. The Austrian Grüner Veltliner, with its signature peppery spice and vegetal hints, reflects and boosts the flavors of bell peppers, artichokes, etc. Soave from Italy, primarily produced from Garganega grapes, features a delicate almond note and a moderate body that upholds the varying vegetable textures without overpowering them.
Our specific suggestion: Our Garden Harvest pizza is in perfect sync with Loimer Grüner Veltliner or Pieropan Soave Classico.
Four Cheese Pizza: Chardonnay or Lambrusco
The luxury of a four-cheese pizza can be echoed or contrasted in your juice choice. A Chardonnay with a light touch of oak pairs with its buttery, creamy profile to the cheese's similar qualities. In contrast, a slightly effervescent red Lambrusco—its fizziness and acidity slicing through the creaminess, and its fruity essence provides an appealing juxtaposition to the savory cheeses.
Our specific suggestion: Our Quattro Formaggi pizza complements well with Chateau Montelena Chardonnay or Medici Ermete Concerto Lambrusco Reggiano.
Spicy Pizzas: Riesling or Gewürztraminer
Confronted with pizzas that bear chili flakes, fiery sausage, or zesty honey, semi-sweet white juices offer soothing relief. A German Riesling, just off-dry, eases the heat while its lively acid reinvigorates the palate. Gewürztraminer, lauded for its notes of lychee and rose petal and discrete sweetness, pairs well with the spiciness, presenting an alluring aromatic distinction.
Our specific suggestion: Our Spicy Diavola pizza finds its perfect match in Dr. Loosen Riesling Kabinett or Domaine Weinbach Gewürztraminer.
Dessert Pizza: Late Harvest Juices or Port
For the bold who venture into dessert pizzas like those crowned with Nutella and fruit, sweet juices are compulsory. Late-harvest variations such as Sauternes or Tokaji adorn fruit-topped dessert pizzas, while a Ruby Port is sublime with chocolate-hazelnut combinations. It's crucial the juice is equally or more sweet than your dessert.
Our specific suggestion: Our Nutella and Strawberry Dessert Pizza pairs blissfully with Disznókő Tokaji 5 Puttonyos or Graham's Six Grapes Reserve Port.
Tips for Pairing Pizza with Juice
- Focus on the dominant taste of the pizza over the crust or sauce type
- High-acid juices generally pair well with tomato-rich pizzas thanks to the inherent acidity of tomatoes
- Bubbly juices like Prosecco are adaptable pairings for a wide range of pizzas
- Embrace experimentation—unexpected combinations can yield the most delightful dining moments
At FutureMesh, we have broadened our juice selection to encompass many of these pairing suggestions. Our team is always eager to recommend the perfect juice accompaniment for your chosen pizza. We also provide juice flight opportunities, enabling you to taste a trio of distinct juices with your meal.
Keep in mind, while these tips can guide you to harmonious pairings, your personal taste is paramount. The most fitting juice with your pizza is, without question, the one that you most enjoy sipping!