Ah, cheese and wine – a match as old as time! Whether you’re a seasoned enthusiast or a newbie just diving into the world of pairings, the right cheese and wine can truly elevate your taste experience. Let’s dig into five classic pairings, five bold choices for those who love a twist, and some pro tips to make your cheese board unforgettable.
The Classics: Traditional Cheese and Wine Pairings
These combos have stood the test of time, each offering a symphony of flavours:
Brie & Champagne Brie, with its creamy, buttery texture, goes beautifully with a sparkling Champagne. The acidity and bubbles in Champagne cut through the richness of the Brie, creating a balanced experience. Did you know? This pairing is popular in France, where Brie is affectionately called the “Queen of Cheeses.”
Goat Cheese & Sauvignon Blanc This pairing is like a summer breeze – light, refreshing, and simply delightful. Sauvignon Blanc’s citrusy, crisp profile complements the tangy, creamy notes in goat cheese. This duo is a favourite in the Loire Valley, France, the origin of some of the world’s best Sauvignon Blancs.
Cheddar & Malbec If you’re a fan of something a little more robust, mature Cheddar with a glass of Malbec is a treat. The bold, earthy notes of Malbec meet the nutty, sharp flavours of Cheddar in a pairing that screams comfort.
Gorgonzola & Port Blue cheeses like Gorgonzola often have a salty edge, which pairs wonderfully with the sweetness of Port. The sugar in Port tones down the saltiness while enhancing the earthy richness of the cheese.
Manchego & Rioja From Spain comes this delicious pairing – Manchego, with its slightly nutty, caramel taste, and Rioja, a red wine with red fruit and spice notes. The two create a perfect harmony, celebrating Spanish flavour at its best.
Bold Pairings: Daring Yet Delicious
Feeling adventurous? Try these pairings that bring unexpected flavours to the table:
Camembert & Chardonnay Camembert has a stronger flavour than Brie, and pairing it with a rich, oaky Chardonnay creates a bold mix. The creamy texture of the Camembert marries well with the Chardonnay’s buttery notes.
Mozzarella & Rosé Fresh mozzarella and a chilled glass of dry rosé make for a refreshing and surprising combination. The light, floral notes of rosé balance mozzarella’s delicate flavours, perfect for a summer gathering.
Blue Stilton & Sauternes For a fantastic alternative to pair with Blue Stilton, try Sauternes. This French dessert wine, known for its sweet, honeyed flavours with hints of apricot and peach, complements Stilton’s bold, salty tang beautifully. The wine’s rich sweetness softens the intensity of the blue cheese, creating a perfectly balanced pairing that brings out the best in both.
Parmesan & Prosecco Parmesan isn’t just for pasta – try it with a crisp glass of Prosecco! The nutty, sharp notes of Parmesan are enhanced by the light bubbles in Prosecco, making it a playful yet sophisticated pairing.
Swiss Cheese & Riesling Swiss cheese’s mild nuttiness pairs surprisingly well with the sweet acidity of Riesling. The wine’s apple and pear notes complement the cheese’s subtle flavours, giving you a pairing that’s mellow and refreshing.
Essentials for a Perfect Cheese Board
A cheese board is more than just cheese and wine. Here are some popular cheeses to include and some pro tips to elevate your board:
Cheeses to Include:
Hard:
Cheddar, Manchego
Soft:
Brie, Camembert
Aged:
Gouda, Parmesan
Blue:
Gorgonzola, Stilton
Fresh:
Mozzarella, Goat Cheese
Pro Tips for the Perfect Board:
Add variety with cold meats like prosciutto, salami, or chorizo. These meats bring a savoury touch that complements many cheeses. Include a selection of bread and crackers – crusty baguettes, whole-grain crackers, and lightly toasted nuts add texture and substance. For a touch of sweetness, add dried fruits, fig jam, or even a few squares of dark chocolate – a surprisingly great pairing for blue cheeses.
A well-curated cheese and wine pairing can transform any evening into a memorable experience. So grab a few of these classic or daring pairings, arrange a beautiful board, and enjoy exploring all the flavours – cheers to a tasty adventure!