Wine and cheese are quite the power couple when it comes to tasty, dynamic pairings, but if you’re a beginner, finding the perfect match can be an intimidating experience. It can take years for most people to become familiar with the different qualities and characteristics of certain wines and cheeses, but with any luck, the tips provided below will help guide you through the maze when it comes time to plan your next party, housewarming, or other social events.
White Wine Combinations
- Pinot Grigio – This dry white wine with fruity undertones goes with most soft cheese varieties, like Ricotta, Mozzarella, and Fontina.
- Chardonnay – With its rich, nutty flavor, Chardonnay pairs well with both soft and hard kinds of cheese, including Cheddar and Brie.
- Muscat Wine – This sweet wine has a delicate touch of honey that really stands out when served with dessert – especially chocolate. It also works well with cheddar and blue cheeses.
- Sauvignon Blanc – The bold aroma and hints of fruits and herbs make this white wine a go-to favorite for pairing with creamy goat cheeses, as well as Brie and Feta.
- Champagne – This is a classic wine with a delicately fruity and floral taste. It’s a great companion for a wide variety of meals, but especially those containing soft goat cheese in the recipe.
- Cava – A Spanish sparkling wine with apple and citrus tones, Cava helps to enhance the flavors of meat and fish dishes and pairs well with goat cheese.
- Grenache Rosé – Grenache is a dry, fruity white wine with a refined cherry flavor that compliments blue cheeses and British Cheddar.
- Tavel Rosé – As this wine ages, the fruity flavor takes on a distinct nuttier tone, which is most prominent when paired with sheep cheeses and goat cheeses.
Red Wine Pairings
- Malbec Wine – A soft red wine with berry tones, Malbec is best served with Taleggio, Asiago, and Manchego cheeses.
- Cabernet Sauvignon – This bold, blackberry-flavored wine should be coupled with hard cheeses, like Parmesan, Asiago, and cheddar.
- Pinot Noir – A light, versatile wine with a faint berry flavor, such as Pinot Noir works best when served with poultry, meat, and vegetable dishes. Ideal cheese pairings include Gouda, Brie, and Gruyere.
- Merlot – Pungent blue cheeses, including Gruyere and Gouda, pair exceptionally well with a fruity red wine like Merlot.
There are so many wine and cheese combinations to choose from and sometimes it\can make an otherwise fun occasion seem more like a chore. By following these simple tips, you can turn a complicated endeavor into a fun learning experience everyone will enjoy and appreciate. Cheers!