Wine and Cheese

Although there are few things greater in life than a good hunk of smoky Gouda paired with a hearty Black and Tan, the best wine and cheese pairings can elevate your tasting experience to a whole new level. Wine is the perfect partner for a sophisticated cheese board, and understanding how to pair wine with cheese can be a game-changer. Wine and cheese pairings are tricky; no two cheeses are the same, and matching the perfect cheese to its perfect wine calls for much care and thought. Cheeses that go with red wine need to complement the boldness of the wine, while cheeses that pair with white wine should harmonize with their lighter, crisper notes. Wine and cheese pairings are selected like color in interior design, you can either match or contrast, but the flavor and textures have to complement each other in your palate.It is also a matter of taste…your own. Do you love a good Pinot Grigio, but are having Roquefort? Hey, rules were meant to be broken! Enjoy it!

To make wine selection easier for you, we’ve broken it down so you can choose by wine type, cheese category, and most popular cheese. But because a little education doesn’t hurt, your wine and cheese tastings will be helped by these recommendations. For example, using a wine pairing chart can simplify your choices and enhance your overall experience.

Sommelier Tips: When in doubt, follow these simple rules

Whether you’re hosting a sophisticated soirée or simply enjoying a quiet evening at home, here’s a comprehensive guide to help you master the perfect pairing.

Matching Intensity

When pairing wine and cheese, balance is key. Lighter wines like Pinot Grigio pair well with delicate cheeses such as fresh mozzarella, while robust wines like Cabernet Sauvignon complement aged cheeses like sharp cheddar. The idea is to ensure neither the wine nor the cheese overwhelms the other. This approach can be easily visualized using a cheese board wine pairing guide.

Consider Texture & Acidity

Textures play an important role in pairing. Creamy Bries match beautifully with spirits with a bit of acidity, like Champagne or sparkling wines. The bubbles and acidity cut through the richness, providing a balanced taste experience.

Try Flavor Contrast

One of the most delightful pairings is the contrast of sweet and salty. A Port pairs wonderfully with salty blue cheese. The sweetness of the spirit mellows out the sharpness of the cheese, creating a harmonious combination that excites the palate.

Age Matters

Age can guide your pairing choices. Younger wines with fresh, fruity flavors tend to pair well with younger, creamier cheeses. Conversely, aged wines, with their complex flavors, match best with mature cheeses that have deeper, more intense flavors. This consideration is key when choosing the best cheese to have with wine.

Regional Pairing

Often, wines and cheeses from the same region will naturally pair well together. For example, a French chevre Crottin de Chavignol pairs excellently with a Loire Valley Sauvignon Blanc. Regional pairing works because they both often share the same terroir, resulting in complementary flavors. Explore regional pairings that have stood the test of time. In Italy, Pecorino Toscano pairs naturally with Chianti and in France the classic combination of Brie and Bordeaux highlights the harmony between local culinary traditions. Regional pairings not only offer a taste of the culture but also ensure that the flavors are in perfect balance.

Balance Flavors

Balancing strong flavors is key to a successful pairing. If you’re serving a pungent pick like Stilton, pair it with a sweet choice like Port to create a harmonious contrast.

Tried and True Combinations

While general rules are helpful, specific examples make pairing easier and more enjoyable. For instance, pairing a rich Brie with a crisp Champagne creates a luxurious balance of creamy and effervescent textures. Aged Gouda’s caramel notes pair beautifully with a bold Merlot, while a tangy blue complements the sweetness of a Port.

Uncommon Companions

Don’t shy away from exploring less common combos! For example, Ossau-Iraty from the Basque region pairs wonderfully with a medium-bodied Pinot Noir. Another option is Mahón, a Spanish cow’s milk cheese that pairs perfectly with the citrusy notes of an Albariño. These lesser-known pairings can surprise and delight your guests, offering a break from the usual choices.

These tips provide a solid foundation for your pairing adventures, allowing you to mix and match different kinds of fromages with confidence. Experimenting with different combinations is part of the fun, so don't be afraid to try new pairings that suit your personal taste.

Cheese Pairing Charts

By Type of Wine

By Type of Cheese

Most Popular Cheese and their Wine Pairings