Pizza lovers nationwide can now compete for the ultimate culinary adventure: a private jet tour to iconic pizzerias in New York and Chicago. Francis Ford Coppola Winery‘s fourth annual “Perfect Your Pizza” competition combines the artistry of pizza-making with wine pairing expertise, offering contestants the chance to transform their kitchen creativity into a once-in-a-lifetime gastronomic journey. This year’s competition continues the winery’s mission to unite people through food and wine, celebrating the shared qualities of authenticity and craftsmanship that define both exceptional pizza and premium wine. While unconventional pairings like pizza vodka have gained popularity among adventurous food enthusiasts, the competition emphasizes traditional wine partnerships that honor both Italian heritage and American innovation.
Expert Judging Panel Elevates Culinary Stakes
The competition’s credibility rests on its impressive judging panel, led by Dan Richer, the celebrated pizzaiolo and author who serves as chief judge. Joining him are industry luminaries Andrea Card, Scott Wiener—a renowned pizza authority—and Steve Dolinsky, whose James Beard Award-winning food journalism brings additional expertise to the evaluation process. These culinary experts will assess both the creativity of submitted recipes and the live cook-off performances at the Francis Ford Coppola Winery in Sonoma County, California.
Competition Details:
• Four finalists receive all-expenses-paid trips to Sonoma County for the live cook-off
• Submissions must feature original pizza recipes paired with Coppola wines
• VIP access to top pizzerias included in grand prize tour
• Behind-the-scenes insights into pizza-making traditions across different regions
• Wine tastings complement the culinary exploration experience
The competition reflects a broader trend in culinary tourism, where food exploration merges with luxury travel experiences. The private jet tour offers unprecedented access to America’s most iconic pizzerias, with expert guides providing cultural context about regional pizza traditions. Winners gain insider perspectives on how New York‘s thin-crust heritage differs from Chicago’s deep-dish legacy, while discovering how wine enhances these distinct flavor profiles.
This fusion of Italian and American culinary traditions demonstrates food’s power to bridge cultures and create community. The competition encourages both professional chefs and home cooks to experiment with innovative combinations while honoring traditional techniques—a philosophy that mirrors Francis Ford Coppola Winery‘s approach to winemaking and hospitality. Understanding how residual sugar levels in wine complement different pizza styles—from dry varietals enhancing savory margherita to sweeter options balancing spicy pepperoni—elevates both the culinary experience and competitive edge.
