"The varietal is Vernaccia, one of Italy's oldest grapes, which I would compare with a blend of Pinto Grigio and Viognier." These ancient Tuscan grapes were organically grown. And the wine is characterized by delicate, honeydew, honey and pear aromas-creating a fruity, crisp palate.

As with most dishes, the core consideration for matching pizza with a wine is the main ingredient. Fortunately, pizza cheeses are wine friendly-happy with a variety of wines. Yet it is the additional toppings, which mesh with the melted cheese, that bring more specific pairing possibilities. Hearty meat filled pizzas call for a classic Italian Chianti. And pair mushroom and pork sausage pizzas with Pinot Grigio.

But much like its American namesake, the Marilyn Monroe pizza is complex, spicy, and saucy. To Stevens' hand tossed dough, grilled chicken, spinach, red peppers, onions, feta, mozzarella, and his own white sauce are added. Yet if you can't imagine a wine deserving of such a legend, try a bottle of her label, Marilyn Merlot 2003. These alluring labels have attracted a cult following and are also quite collectable. The Merlot is actually a blend of 85 percent Merlot and 15 percent Cabernet Sauvignon. And the wine's aromas of vanilla and roasted coffee with its ripe and soft fruity flavors show both firmness and elegance.

But no matter the wine or the pizza, don't be afraid to break the experts recommendations for wine pairing. Follow Monroe's lead, and flirt with some new wines instead. As she once said, "If I'd observed all the rules, I'd have never gotten anywhere."

Birmingham magazine, May 2006