Since launching The Grape Gatsby back in the fall, I've started to feel a lot of pressure (self-induced, of course) to always drink higher-end wine. But here’s the thing - sometimes a girl just wants a “pizza wine.” And for me, pizza and wine is a pairing that is meant to be.
With the Super Bowl coming up on Sunday, this seems like a perfect time to talk about two of my favorite pizza wines.
Rus Jimenez Manchuela
Spain, 2020
~$15
14% AbV
This is a weird grape; are you ready? (I love weird grapes.) It’s the Moravia Agria grape, which is obscure even in its Spanish homeland. This is a vibrant and juicy wine with bright fruit flavors and a lively acidity. On the nose, it boasts aromas of red cherries, raspberries, and a hint of spice. On the palate, it is medium-bodied with a smooth and silky texture, and a fresh, crisp finish. The tannins are soft and well-integrated, making it an approachable and easy-drinking wine. This Moravia Agria red wine is a versatile choice for a range of food pairings, but it paired quite well with my pepperoni pizza.
Hahn Estates GSM
~$13
14.5% AbV
A GSM (Grenache-Syrah-Mouvedre blend) is an absolute classic pairing with a cheese and marinara pizza. You simply cannot go wrong. The Hahn GSM boasts a flavorful harmony of boldness. The Grenache adds fruity, spicy notes, while the Syrah provides full-bodied structure, and the Mouvedre offers a touch of earthiness. The result is a rich, smooth, and well-balanced wine with a long finish. The tannins are firm but not overpowering, and the fruit flavors are ripe and juicy. Overall, this wine is an excellent choice for those looking for a full-bodied, flavorful blend and, in particular, the perfect pizza wine.
My team (the Bengals, of course) didn’t quite make it to the Super Bowl this year, but whomever you are rooting for, may your team win!
Cheers!