The Perfect Pairings For Wine And Cheese

Wine and cheese are two of life's greatest culinary pleasures. When combined, they create a stylish, sophisticated duo that is perfect for any party. The right wine and cheese pairings can be determined by several factors, such as texture, acidity, fat, and tannin. One of the most important factors is pairing wines and cheeses with equal intensity. For example, a bold red wine pairs best with aged cheeses, as the fat content in the cheese counteracts the high tannins in the wine. Additionally, sweeter wines like Moscato or Port go well with stinky or blue-veined cheeses, as the sweetness of the wine balances the funk of the cheese. When serving multiple wines, a firm, nutty cheese is a safe choice, as it has enough fat to counterbalance the tannin in red wine while remaining delicate enough to complement white wines.

Wine and cheese pairings

Wine and cheese are two of life's greatest culinary pleasures, and finding the perfect match can be a delicious endeavour. Here are some tips for creating your own wine and cheese pairings:

Pick a Variety of Cheeses

A simple cheese plate will offer three to five cheeses, preferably made from different milks and aged using a variety of methods. This ensures a range of flavours and textures to suit all tastes. Some classic choices include:

• Firm or semi-firm cheese such as aged Gruyère or Cheddar
• Soft, spreadable cheese such as chèvre, crottin or burrata
• Hard aged cheese such as Parmesan
• Washed-rind cheese such as Pont l'Eveque or Taleggio
• Blue cheese such as Maytag, Stilton or gorgonzola

Pair According to Intensity and Body

One of the most important tips for creating wine and cheese pairings is to match the intensity of the wine with the intensity of the cheese. Delicate cheeses will be overpowered by bold wines, and vice versa. Wines over 14.5% ABV are more intense and taste better with more intensely-flavoured cheeses. Wines under 12% ABV are less intense and match nicely with more delicately-flavoured cheeses.

Additionally, mature, strong cheeses generally work better with bigger, fuller wines, while fresher, lighter-tasting cheeses pair well with youthful wines. Bold red wines, for example, pair best with aged cheeses. As cheese ages and loses water content, it becomes richer in flavour with increased fat content. This fat content in the cheese counteracts the high tannins in bold red wines.

Match Funk with Sweetness

Super funky, stinky cheeses are best matched with sweeter wines. The sweetness of the wine helps to balance the "funk" of the cheese and makes it taste creamier. Try sweeter wines like Moscato, Gewürztraminer, Late Harvest dessert wines, and Port with washed-rind or blue-veined cheeses. Two classic pairings are Port with Stilton and Sauternes with Roquefort.

Sparkling Wines for Soft, Creamy Cheeses

Sparkling wines have high acidity and carbonation, which offer a palate-cleansing effect to creamy, sticky cheeses such as Brie, Muenster, Camembert, Cremont, or Époisses de Bourgogne.

Regional Pairings

More often than not, you'll do well to trust local traditions and match wines and cheeses from the same region together. Some great examples of this include Sauvignon Blanc with Goat Cheese (Loire Valley, France), Chardonnay with Époisses de Bourgogne (Burgundy, France), and Garnacha with Manchego (Spain).

When in Doubt, Opt for a Firm, Nutty Cheese

When serving several wines, and you're not sure which cheese to pair, a firm, nutty cheese is one of the safest bets and most popular choices with all styles of wines. The cheese will have enough fat to counterbalance tannin in red wine, but enough delicacy to complement delicate whites. Some examples include Swiss, Gruyère, Comté, Emmental, and Gouda.

Extras

Bread and plain crackers act as palate cleansers between bites of cheese and sips of wine. Nuts are also a good addition, as they complement the cheese without competing with the complex flavours of the wine. Fresh or dried fruit selections also enhance a wine and cheese spread. Grapes, cherries, berries, apples, and pears are all good choices, as are dried fruits like raisins, dried cherries, and dried apricots.

Choosing a base for your wine and cheese board

When selecting a base, it's important to consider the size of your group. A larger group will require a bigger base to accommodate all the delicious cheeses, charcuterie, and other accompaniments. It's also a good idea to choose a base that is easy to clean, as things can get a little messy, especially if you're serving runny cheeses or juicy fruits.

Another factor to keep in mind is the shape of the base. A rectangular or oval-shaped base will allow you to create a visually appealing display by arranging the items in sections or clusters. If you're feeling creative, you can even use smaller boards of different shapes and sizes to create a unique and interesting presentation.

Remember, the base is just the starting point—the real fun begins when you start adding the cheese, charcuterie, crackers, fruits, and other tasty treats!

Now, let's move on to the next step—picking your cheeses!

Wine and cheese serving tips

Wine and cheese are two of life's greatest culinary pleasures, and when combined, they create a stylish and sophisticated duo. Here are some tips to help you elevate your wine and cheese game and impress your guests:

Variety is the Spice of Life:

Offer a variety of cheeses to your guests to cater to different tastes and preferences. A simple cheese plate typically includes three to five cheeses, made from different types of milk and aged using various methods. Here are some options to consider:

• Firm or semi-firm cheeses: Aged Gruyere, Cheddar, or Gouda.
• Soft, spreadable cheeses: Chevre, Crottin, or Burrata.
• Hard aged cheeses: Parmesan, Manchego, or Grana Padano.
• Washed-rind cheeses: Pont l'Eveque or Taleggio.
• Blue cheese: Maytag, Stilton, or Gorgonzola.

Complementary Pairings:

When creating your cheese plate, aim for complementary pairings between the cheeses, and also consider how they will pair with the wine. Match the region of the cheese to the wine, such as Italian wines with Parmesan or French vintages with mountain cheeses. Remember that bold red wines generally pair better with aged cheeses, while lighter, more delicate wines complement softer cheeses.

Palate Cleansers:

Bread and plain crackers are essential for providing a neutral base and cleansing the palate between bites of cheese and sips of wine. A thinly sliced baguette or simple water crackers are excellent choices.

The Magic of Nuts:

Nuts are a wonderful addition to any wine and cheese spread. They complement the cheese without competing with the complex flavours of the wine. Roasted and salted almonds and pistachios are excellent choices, and candied walnuts can be a delightful pairing with milder cheeses.

The Sweetness of Fruit:

Fresh and dried fruits enhance the overall presentation and taste experience. Offer whole grapes, cherries, and berries, or slice fruit beforehand for convenience. Avoid overly acidic fruits and instead opt for sliced melon, figs, peaches, nectarines, apples, or pears. Dried fruits such as raisins, dried cherries, or apricots are also excellent choices.

Meaty Delights:

Cured meats are an optional yet delicious addition to your spread. Stick to a small selection of two to four meats, such as thinly sliced prosciutto or salami.

Sweet and Sour Chutneys:

Chutneys add a nice contrast to the richness of certain cheeses. Offer one or two types of chutney on the side, such as slices of quince paste (membrillo), which pairs beautifully with Spanish cheeses and mild semi-firm cheeses.

The Golden Honeycomb:

For a unique touch, place a large piece of honeycomb on the table. Honey pairs exceptionally well with blue cheeses and soft goat cheese.

Wine Selection:

When choosing wines, consider the intensity of the cheese. Pair wines and cheeses with equal intensity. Delicate cheeses, such as Gruyère, pair better with lighter wines like Pinot Noir, while bold, aged cheeses stand up to bigger-bodied wines like Cabernet Sauvignon. Additionally, sweeter wines like Moscato or Port match wonderfully with blue-veined cheeses.

Experiment and Enjoy:

Remember, these are just guidelines, and the most important thing is to enjoy yourself and your guests. Don't be afraid to experiment with different combinations and discover your own favourite pairings!

Wine and cheese party planning

Wine and cheese are two of life's greatest culinary pleasures, and a wine and cheese party is a stylish and sophisticated event. To host a wine and cheese party, you'll need more than just a few bottles of wine and a cheese board. Here is a step-by-step guide to help you plan the ultimate wine and cheese party:

Step 1: Pick a Base

First, select a base for your cheese board. You don't need to buy a fancy slate board; you can use an old cutting board, a pizza board, or even a baking sheet. If you want to make serving easier, choose a board with a handle.

Step 2: Choose Your Cheeses

Select three to five cheeses of different varieties, preferably made from different types of milk and aged using various methods. Here are some options:

• Firm or semi-firm cheese: aged Gruyere, Cheddar, or Comte
• Soft, spreadable cheese: Chevre, Crottin, Burrata, or Up in Smoke (a smoked goat cheese)
• Hard aged cheese: Parmesan, Manchego, Grana Padano, or Pecorino Toscano
• Washed-rind cheese: Pont l'Eveque, Taleggio, Langres, or Livarot
• Blue cheese: Maytag, Stilton, Gorgonzola, Roquefort, or Bleu d'Auvergne

Step 3: Add Charcuterie and Nuts

Add some variety to your board with charcuterie or cold cuts, such as salami or prosciutto. Choose one variety and arrange it in different parts of the board. For nuts, select a mix of roasted and salted almonds, pistachios, and candied walnuts, which complement the cheeses well.

Step 4: Include Salty Nibbles

Add some salty snacks to your board, such as olives, pickles, stuffed peppers, or labneh balls made from strained Greek yogurt. These salty bites add variety and keep your guests snacking.

Step 5: Add Sweet Things and Fruits

Fruits are a must for a cheese board, providing a refreshing contrast to the cheeses. Choose fruits that are in season, such as strawberries, grapes, cherries, berries, apples, pears, melon, figs, peaches, and nectarines. Dried fruits like raisins, dried cherries, and dried apricots also work well.

Step 6: Provide Crackers and Breads

Offer a selection of crackers and breads to scoop up the cheeses. Choose mild-flavoured and locally available options that won't overpower the cheese, such as water crackers, gourmet flatbreads, or a thinly sliced baguette.

Step 7: Select Your Wines

You can choose your wines first and then select the cheeses to pair with them, or vice versa. Here are some classic wine and cheese pairings:

• Pinot Noir with Gruyere
• Cabernet Sauvignon with aged Gouda or Danish Blue
• Chardonnay with soft, mild cheeses like Brie or goat cheese
• Dessert wine, such as Bellissima, with salty, pungent cheeses
• Port with Stilton
• Sauternes with Roquefort
• Sparkling wine with soft, creamy cheeses like Brie, Camembert, or Muenster
• Sauvignon Blanc with goat cheese
• Garnacha with Manchego
• Rioja with young Manchego

Remember, wines over 14.5% ABV are more intense and pair better with intensely flavoured cheeses, while wines under 12% ABV are less intense and match nicely with more delicate cheeses. Bold red wines also pair well with aged cheeses, as the fat content in the cheese counteracts the high tannins in the wine.

Step 8: Create a Cozy Atmosphere

Create a cozy and inviting atmosphere for your guests to enjoy their wine and cheese. Set up a comfortable seating area, play some soft music in the background, and provide some fun wine and cheese-themed activities or games.

Step 9: Don't Forget the Details

Pay attention to the small details that will make your party memorable. Provide your guests with small plates, napkins, and cheese knives or small knives for cutting the cheeses. Ensure you have a trash can or bin easily accessible for guests to dispose of their waste.

With these steps, you're well on your way to hosting a delightful wine and cheese party that your guests will surely enjoy!

Wine and cheese platter presentation

Wine and cheese are two of life's greatest culinary pleasures, and when combined, they create a stylish and sophisticated duo. Here are some tips for creating a stunning wine and cheese platter:

Step 1: Choose a Base

You don't need an expensive or fancy base for your cheese board. A simple cutting board, pizza board, or even an old baking sheet can work perfectly. Look for something with a handle to make serving easier.

Step 2: Select and Arrange the Cheeses

Offer a variety of cheeses with different textures and flavours. A good rule of thumb is to include three to five cheeses, such as:

• Firm or semi-firm cheese: Aged Gruyere, Cheddar, or Comte.
• Soft, spreadable cheese: Chevre, Crottin, Burrata, or Up in Smoke (a smoked goat cheese).
• Hard aged cheese: Parmesan, Manchego, Grana Padano, or Pecorino Toscano.
• Washed-rind cheese: Pont l'Eveque, Taleggio, or Epoisses.
• Blue cheese: Maytag, Stilton, Gorgonzola, Roquefort, or Bleu d'Auvergne.

Arrange the cheeses with ample space between them to make it easier for your guests to cut and serve themselves. Provide cheese knives or small knives for cutting.

Step 3: Add Charcuterie and Nuts

Include some thin slices of cured meats such as prosciutto or salami. One or two varieties are enough, and you can arrange them in different parts of the board to create a sense of variety. For nuts, choose roasted and salted almonds and pistachios, or candied walnuts, which go well with mild cheeses.

Step 4: Include Salty Nibbles

Add some salty snacks from your fridge or pantry, such as olives, pickles, or stuffed peppers. These provide a nice contrast to the cheeses and add variety to your platter.

Step 5: Add Sweet Things and Fruits

Fruits are a must for any cheese board, providing a refreshing and sweet contrast to the savoury cheeses. Choose fruits that are in season, such as strawberries, grapes, apples, pears, or stone fruits. Make sure to wash and pat dry the fruits to avoid sogginess.

Step 6: Provide Crackers and Breads

Offer a selection of mild-flavoured crackers or breads, such as a thinly sliced baguette, water crackers, or gourmet flatbreads. Avoid strongly flavoured crackers that might compete with the taste of the cheese.

Step 7: Choose the Wine

You can choose the wine before or after selecting your cheeses. Here are some tips for pairing wine and cheese:

• Match wines and cheeses with equal intensity. Delicate cheeses pair better with lighter wines, while bold, aged cheeses stand up to bigger-bodied wines.
• Bold red wines, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot, pair well with aged cheeses like Cheddar, Gruyere, Manchego, or Parmesan.
• Sweeter wines like Moscato, Gewürztraminer, or Port go well with strong, funky cheeses like blue cheese or washed-rind cheeses.
• Sparkling wines, such as Champagne or Prosecco, are excellent with soft, creamy cheeses like Brie, Camembert, or Chevre.
• Wines and cheeses from the same region often pair well together, such as Sauvignon Blanc with Goat Cheese from the Loire Valley or Chardonnay with Époisses de Bourgogne from Burgundy.
• When in doubt, a firm, nutty cheese like Swiss, Gruyere, Gouda, or Comte is a safe choice that pairs well with most wines.

Frequently asked questions