Pizza and beer go together like wine and cheese. The latter is great when you want to have an upscale evening but what about when you just want to kick back with friends and enjoy pizza and beer. This can be the call to watch sports, throw a party, or go out to eat a delicious slice of heaven.
While most people are satisfied with a slice of pizza and their favorite beer there is a way to elevate that experience. This is done through pairing a beer with a particular style of pizza based on the flavor profiles of the two. certain pizzas and beers were meant for each other, and it is our job to help you be the best matchmakers you can be. Below are some suggested beer and pizza pairings that can turn up flavors of any pizza night.
Margherita and Pale Ale
If you’re one for classic margherita pizza, try a pale ale. The ale’s flavor will complement the pizza’s toasty crust and balance out the acidity of the tomatoes. The lightness of the beer will also let the mozzarella shine, allowing cheese to be the center of attention, as it should be. Ex: Victory Headwaters
Pepperoni and IPA
For those who prefer the classic pepperoni or a pizza with other meats , go for an India Pale Ale (IPA). The bitterness of an IPA will give great balance to the saltiness of the meat. Most known for its use of more hops than your general pale ale, the IPA has the added bonus of an increased alcohol content. Ex: Troeg’s Perpetual
Hawaiian and Fruit Ale
While there is a great divide between those who love pineapple on pizza and those who don’t , its flavors are elevated when paired with a fruit-based ale. The sweetness of a strawberry, grapefruit, or cherry ale not only complements the sweetness of the pineapple topping and acidity of the tomato, but gives a great contrast to the salty ham. Ex: Founder’s Rubaeus
Mushroom and Spinach and Stout
Mushroom and spinach pizza is great combination, but what’s even better is this pizza when paired with a stout. The sweetness of a milk or chocolate stout adds an amazing flavor profile to the earthy flavors of the mushrooms and spinach. Ex: Founders Breakfast
Cheese and Wheat Ale
And last but not least, the classic cheese pizza. Now, it may seem like just any beer would go well with a cheese pizza. Wrong. Because this pie is plain in nature, light, not-so-hoppy beers allow it to shine, especially when multiple types of cheeses are used. Light or wheat beers are best paired with a cheese pizza. Ex: Goose Island 312 Urban Wheat
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