While soda might be thought of as pizza's classic partner, juice lovers understand that the perfect juice selection can enhance the pizza dining experience significantly. At UpwardsCalability, we've worked together with local experts to craft juice pairing suggestions that accentuate our menu's flavors. Whether you're enjoying a meal in our establishment or having it to-go, these recommendations will guide you to the ideal juice for your pizza of choice.
Classic Margherita: Non-alcoholic Sangiovese or Pinot Noir
A Margherita pizza's fresh tomatoes, mozzarella, and basil requires a juice that won't overshadow these subtle tastes. A medium-bodied non-alcoholic Sangiovese presents a lively acidity that aligns with the tomatoes, yet has sufficient structure for the cheese. Or, a light-bodied non-alcoholic Pinot Noir with its refined red fruit nuances can elevate the tomato sweetness and basil's fragrance.
Our specific recommendation: We suggest pairing our Margherita with a non-alcoholic Chianti mocktail or, for something closer to home, a red fruit lemonade from Kent.
Pepperoni and Meat Lovers: Non-alcoholic Zinfandel or Montepulciano
Hearty pizzas adorned with cured meats like pepperoni and sausage need juices with a strong character and zest to mesh with their robust flavors. A non-alcoholic American Zinfandel, known for its rich fruit essence and spiced finish, complements the saltiness and heat of such toppings. As an Italian substitute, opt for a non-alcoholic Montepulciano, which brings forward dark fruit tastes and a satisfyingly sharp end note that slices through the meat's richness.
Our specific recommendation: A favorite among patrons is the three-berry blend or Umani Ronchi's non-alcoholic Montepulciano for our Meat Lover's feast.
Mushroom and Truffle: Non-alcoholic Nebbiolo or Pinot Noir
Mushrooms and truffles have distinctive earthy, umami flavors that call for juices with corresponding characteristics. Non-alcoholic Nebbiolo, the grape behind Barolo and Barbaresco, brings forth soft scents of roses, tar, and autumn woods that match the fungi's flavors. The high acidity and tannins help to contrast the richness. An aged non-alcoholic Pinot Noir is also a fine option, as it acquires earthy mushroom and forest aromas that reflect the pizza's nature.
Our specific recommendation: Experience our Wild Mushroom pizza with a non-alcoholic Nebbiolo or a berry-infused lemonade from Oregon.
Seafood Pizza: Non-alcoholic Vermentino or Albariño
For pizzas topped with seafood like prawns and clams, crisp non-alcoholic white juices that possess mineral qualities make the perfect complement. Non-alcoholic Vermentino has saline nuances that amplify seafood tastes alongside citrus highlights that freshen the overall profile. Non-alcoholic Albariño, with its striking acidity and peach attributes softly laced with saltiness, gracefully partners with the seafood without domination.
Our specific recommendation: Our Seafood Medley pizza is beautifully matched with a tropical citrus punch or a stone fruit spritzer.
Vegetable Supreme: Non-alcoholic Grüner Veltliner or Soave
A pizza loaded with veggies benefits from versatile, herbal juices. Non-alcoholic Austrian Grüner Veltliner is characterized by its peppery zip and green veggie notes, mimicking and reinforcing the flavors of ingredients like bell peppers and artichokes. Italian non-alcoholic Soave, deriving from the Garganega grape, offers almond undertones and a medium body that's robust enough for the varied vegetable textures without overpowering them.
Our specific recommendation: Our Garden Harvest pizza resonates with Loimer's non-alcoholic Grüner Veltliner or a classic lemonade with an almond twist.
Four Cheese Pizza: Non-alcoholic Chardonnay or Lambrusco
The lavishness of a four-cheese pizza necessitates a juice that either complements or contrasts. A mildly oaked non-alcoholic Chardonnay delivers rich, creamy undercurrents that match the cheese. On the other hand, a bubbly non-alcoholic Lambrusco, with its playful fizz and tang, slices through the creamy attribute while its fruity zest offers a delightful counterbalance to the savory cheeses.
Our specific recommendation: Our Four Cheese pizza goes splendidly with a buttery apple elixir or a fizzy berry lemonade.
Spicy Pizzas: Non-alcoholic Riesling or Gewürztraminer
For pizzas with chilies or spicy sauce, off-dry non-alcoholic white juices provide a soothing effect. A non-alcoholic German Riesling, slightly sweet, calms the heat, while its zest refreshes. A non-alcoholic Gewürztraminer, with its signature lychee and rose petal scent and a hint of sweetness, stands up well to spice and offers an aromatic complexity.
Our specific recommendation: Our Fiery Diavola pizza pairs nicely with a non-alcoholic Riesling with a hint of sweetness or a floral fruit punch.
Dessert Pizza: Non-alcoholic Late Harvest Juices or Port
For those daring to try our dessert pizzas with Nutella or fruit, sweet juices are a must. Non-alcoholic late harvest juices like a mock Sauternes pair well with fruit-topped desserts, while a non-alcoholic ruby port style drink is divine with chocolate and hazelnut variations. The primary rule is choosing a juice that's as sweet, if not sweeter than the dessert itself.
Our specific recommendation: Our Nutella and Strawberry Dessert Pizza is heavenly with a golden tropical nectar or a rich grape juice blend.
Guidelines for Pizza and Juice Combinations
- Focus on the dominant taste of the pizza, not only the type of crust or sauce
- Juices high in acidity tend to go well with tomato-based pizzas because of the natural acidity in tomatoes
- Crisp juices such as apple or peach nectar are versatile and match with nearly any pizza style
- Don't hesitate to experiment—unexpected combinations often lead to the most delightful experiences
At UpwardsCalability, we've enriched our juice selection to feature many of these recommended combinations. Our team is more than willing to help pick the perfect juice for your pizza. We also provide juice flight options, letting guests sample a variety of juices with their meal.
While these tips can guide you toward balanced matches, personal taste prevails. The finest juice to accompany your pizza is ultimately the one you relish the most.