Although beer is traditionally viewed as pizza's go-to accompaniment, those who favor juices are aware that the correct non-alcoholic drink, like a flavorful juice or lemonade, can raise the pizza dining experience. At EveningBay, we have come together with local flavor experts to craft juice pairing proposals that ideally suit our offerings. Whether enjoying your meal inside our establishment or in the comfort of your home, these ideas will guide you to the ultimate juice for your chosen pizza variant.
Classic Margherita: Sangiovese or Pinot Noir Juice
Given the uncomplicated appeal of Margherita pizza, accentuated by ripe tomatoes, mozzarella, and fresh basil, it requires a juice that respects these refined tastes. A medium-bodied Sangiovese provides a lively acidity that mirrors the tomato's tang, balancing well with the richness of the cheese. In contrast, a light-bodied Pinot Noir-style juice delivers subtle red fruit notes that highlight the sweetness of the tomatoes and echo the basil's aromatics.
Our specific recommendation: We suggest accompanying our Margherita with a non-alcoholic Chianti-inspired Sangiovese alternative or a non-alcoholic Pinot Noir-style drink of a local variety like Chapel Down Union Red from Kent.
Pepperoni and Meat Lovers: Zinfandel or Montepulciano d'Abruzzo Juice
For pizzas brimming with robust meats such as pepperoni or sausage, look for full-bodied juices or lemonades that can hold their own against these intense flavors. A Zinfandel juice, with its fruity essence and a hint of spice, can complement the salty and spicy notes of such toppings. Alternatively, a Montepulciano d'Abruzzo beverage, with its earthy fruit profile and slightly bitter finish, can slice through the richness of the meat selections.
Our specific recommendation: Our Meat Feast pizza goes excellently with non-alcoholic versions of Ridge Vineyards' Three Valleys Zinfandel Bend or Umani Ronchi's Montepulciano d'Abruzzo.
Mushroom and Truffle: Nebbiolo or Pinot Noir Juice
The savory depth of mushrooms and truffles necessitates a beverage with grounding, earthy notes. Nebbiolo juice, reminiscent of Barolo and Barbaresco flavors, offers hints of roses, tar, and the forest floor, creating a harmonious blend with the taste of fungi. The acidity and tannins of such a juice also cut through the creaminess. Mature Pinot Noir juices also work well, with their developed forest floor scents complementing those found in the pizza.
Our specific recommendation: Pair our Wild Mushroom pizza with either a Barbaresco-style Nebbiolo juice or a non-alcoholic Pinot Noir from Oregon.
Seafood Pizza: Vermentino or Albariño Juice
Light and breezy juices are the best suitor for pizzas topped with prawns or other seafood. A Vermentino-style juice from Sardinia can bring notes of saltiness that highlight the seafood's flavor, while citric touches brighten the entire taste. Another prime choice could be a non-alcoholic Albariño, notable for its high acidity, fruity palatability, and a splash of salinity that doesn't mask the delicate flavors of the seafood.
Our specific recommendation: Our Mediterranean Seafood pizza meshes wonderfully with a non-alcoholic Vermentino di Sardegna or a non-alcoholic Albariño beverage.
Vegetable Supreme: Grüner Veltliner or Soave Juice
With an abundance of flavors from assorted vegetables, these pizzas suit versatile white juices or lemonades marked by herbal scents. Austrian Grüner Veltliner, characterized by its notes of white pepper and green veggies, complements and amplifies the tastes of bell peppers and artichokes. Soave juice, produced from the Garganega grape, delivers subtle almond undertones and medium body, which handle the variety of vegetable textures gracefully.
Our specific recommendation: Our Garden Harvest pizza finds its match with either a Grüner Veltliner juice or a Soave Classico non-alcoholic option.
Four Cheese Pizza: Chardonnay or Lambrusco Juice
For a rich four-cheese pizza, choose a juice that either complements or provides a contrast. A lightly oaked Chardonnay-style juice can enhance the creamy, buttery flavors of the cheese blend. Conversely, try a red-berry Lambrusco non-alcoholic soda for a lively contrast; its fizziness will cut through the richness, with fruity notes offering a savory counterbalance.
Our specific recommendation: Our Quattro Formaggi pizza pairs nicely with a non-alcoholic Chateau Montelena Chardonnay alternative or a fizzy Lambrusco-like drink.
Spicy Pizzas: Riesling or Gewürztraminer Juice
For pizzas spiked with heat from chili flakes or spicy meats, semi-sweet white juices or lemonades bring soothing relief. A non-alcoholic German Riesling with hints of residual sugar quenches the spice and refreshes the palate. Similarly, a non-alcoholic Gewürztraminer with its nuanced sweetness and rose petal scent can stand against the heat while adding an interesting aromatic dimension.
Our specific recommendation: Our Spicy Diavola pizza pairs up nicely with a Riesling Kabinett-style beverage or a non-alcoholic wine resembling Domaine Weinbach's Gewürztraminer.
Dessert Pizza: Late Harvest Juice or Port-style Drink
For those venturing into dessert pizzas like Nutella and fruit toppings, sweet juices are indispensable. Late-harvest-style juices akin to Sauternes or Tokaji are great for accompanying fruit dessert pizzas, while a non-alcoholic port-style drink pairs perfectly with chocolatey variations. The key is to match the sweetness level of the beverage with that of the dessert.
Our specific recommendation: Our Nutella and Strawberry Dessert Pizza is divine with a Tokaji 5 Puttonyos-like juice or a non-alcoholic port-style drink akin to Graham's Six Grapes Reserve Port.
Tips for Pizza and Juice Pairing
- Focus on the dominant flavor of the pizza rather than solely on the crust or sauce
- High-acid juices are often a match for tomato-based pizzas, aligning with the inherent acidity of tomatoes
- Refreshing bubble sodas like non-alcoholic Prosecco can be versatile and suit almost any pizza
- Be open to experimentation as sometimes the most unusual combinations can be the most enjoyable
At EveningBay, we have expanded our juice selection to incorporate many of these recommended pairings. Our team is always eager to recommend the ideal juice for your pizza of choice. We also provide juice flight options, so guests can taste a variety of juices with their meal.
Keep in mind that while these suggestions serve as a guide to harmonious matches, it's your personal taste that should dictate the choice. The finest juice to accompany your pizza is, without a doubt, the one you find most delightful!