8 Wine and Cheese Pairings You Can Try at Home

Wine and cheese pairings are a delightful and timeless culinary art form that combines two of life’s greatest pleasures: wine and cheese. When done right, the flavours and textures can elevate both the wine and the cheese, creating a truly memorable tasting experience. So where do you begin? Here are few things to consider when planning wine and cheese pairings at home:

Balance is key: The fundamental principle in pairing wine and cheese is achieving balance. You want to create a synergy where the wine complements and enhances the cheese, and vice versa. This means considering the intensity, flavour profiles, and textures of both elements.

Match intensity: Pair lighter wines with milder cheeses and fuller-bodied wines with stronger, more robust cheeses. For instance, a crisp, unoaked Chardonnay goes beautifully with fresh mozzarella or goat cheese, while a bold Cabernet Sauvignon pairs well with a sharp cheddar or blue cheese.

Consider acidity: The acidity in wine can cut through the richness of cheese, creating a pleasant contrast. For instance, a zesty Sauvignon Blanc can balance the creaminess of a Brie or Camembert.

Go regional: Pair wines and cheeses from the same region. This often results in natural affinities as the local cuisine and terroir tend to influence both. Think of pairing an Italian Chianti with Pecorino cheese or a French Bordeaux with a classic Roquefort.

Texture matters: Soft cheeses like brie or chevre work well with both sparkling wines and white wines, as the acidity and effervescence cut through the creamy texture. Hard cheeses like aged gouda or parmesan pair nicely with red wines with some tannin structure.

Sweet and salty: The sweet and salty combination can be enchanting. Try pairing a sweet dessert wine, like a late-harvest Riesling or Port, with a salty blue cheese, such as Stilton or Gorgonzola.

Play with contrasts: Sometimes, pairing contrasting flavours can create a unique experience. A sweet and spicy Gewürztraminer can work wonders with a creamy, tangy, and slightly spicy cheese like a pepper jack.

Experiment: There are no hard and fast rules in wine and cheese pairings, so don’t be afraid to experiment. Your personal preferences play a significant role, and you may discover delightful combinations that are not traditionally recommended.

Accompaniments: Consider adding accompaniments such as fresh fruit, nuts, honey, or bread to your wine and cheese tasting. These can add another layer of complexity and texture to the experience.

Temperature: Make sure both the wine and cheese are served at the appropriate temperatures. Whites are typically served cooler, while reds are served slightly warmer. Most cheeses are best enjoyed at room temperature to allow their full flavours to shine.

8 Wine and Cheese pairings to enjoy at home

Here are eight delectable combinations to try:

1. Classic Duo: Chardonnay and Brie

• The buttery, creamy notes of Brie harmonize beautifully with a lightly oaked Chardonnay. The wine’s hints of vanilla and apple complement the cheese’s lush texture.

2. Timeless Elegance: Champagne and Camembert

• The effervescence of Champagne cleanses the palate and enhances the rich, mushroomy flavours of Camembert. It’s a classic pairing that exudes sophistication.

3. Bold and Beautiful: Cabernet Sauvignon and Aged Gouda

• The tannins in Cabernet Sauvignon pair wonderfully with the caramel notes in aged Gouda. The wine’s dark fruit flavors complement the cheese’s nutty sweetness.

4. Zesty Harmony: Sauvignon Blanc and Goat Cheese

• The bright acidity and citrus notes of Sauvignon Blanc cut through the tanginess of goat cheese, creating a refreshing and lively combination.

5. Sweet Indulgence: Port and Stilton

• The sweet, fortified wine that is Port marries beautifully with the salty and rich intensity of Stilton blue cheese. It’s a match made in heaven for those with a penchant for indulgence.

6. Rustic Delight: Pinot Noir and Camembert

• The earthy, fruity character of Pinot Noir complements the creamy Camembert cheese. This pairing is like a slice of the countryside in your own home.

7. Mediterranean Romance: Sangiovese and Pecorino

• Sangiovese, often associated with Italian reds like Chianti, pairs nicely with the salty, nutty profile of Pecorino. It’s a taste of Italy on your plate.

8. Sweet and Spicy Adventure: Riesling and Pepper Jack

• The slight sweetness of a Riesling balances the spiciness of Pepper Jack cheese, creating a delightful contrast in flavours and sensations.

Remember, while these pairings offer a starting point, the most important thing is to trust your palate and preferences. Feel free to explore, experiment, and discover your own favourite combinations. With a little creativity and a few bottles of wine and various cheeses, you can embark on a delicious journey of wine and cheese pairings right in your own home. Wine and cheese pairings are as much about personal enjoyment as they are about good company.