Chianti And Cheese: Perfect Pairing For A Palate Adventure

Chianti is a Tuscan wine that pairs well with a variety of cheeses, simple pasta dishes, and grilled foods. The higher fat and protein content of cheese balances the tannins in Chianti, boosting the fruity flavours of the Sangiovese grapes from which it is made. Harder cheeses like Parmesan or Cheddar are a good match for the more tannic Chianti, while creamy cheeses go better with more acidic wines like Rosè or white wine.

Hard cheeses like Parmesan or Cheddar

Harder cheeses, such as Parmesan or Cheddar, are an excellent match for more tannic red wines like Chianti. The higher fat and protein content in these cheeses balance the tannins in the wine, boosting the fruity flavours of the Sangiovese grapes.

Aged Parmigiano, a hard, nutty, and slightly salty cheese, is a perfect complement to the fruity notes of Chianti. Its sharpness and saltiness are a delightful contrast to the wine's dark fruit flavours. Similarly, Grana Padano, a hard cow's milk cheese milder and softer than Parmesan, is a wonderful companion to a robust Chianti.

Cheddar, another hard cheese, also pairs beautifully with Chianti. A sharp Cheddar, in particular, will enhance the flavour profile of a medium to full-bodied Chianti. For a delightful grilled cheese experience, consider using a young Goat Cheddar, which melts deliciously.

When it comes to wine and cheese pairings, it's worth noting that regional pairings often work exceptionally well. Chianti, a Tuscan wine, pairs beautifully with Pecorino, a Tuscan sheep's milk cheese. An aged Pecorino is a superb match for the strong tannins of a Chianti Classico, with both the cheese and the wine boasting bold, dark fruit flavours.

Fresh Mozzarella

When it comes to pairing fresh mozzarella with Chianti, a full-bodied Tuscan red wine, there are a few things to consider. Firstly, the high fat and protein content of cheese balance the tannins in Chianti, boosting the fruity flavours of the Sangiovese grapes. This means that a bold, full-flavoured cheese like fresh mozzarella can stand up to the robust taste of Chianti.

Secondly, it is important to balance the power of the wine and cheese. A soft, mild cheese may be overpowered by the boldness of a Chianti. Fresh mozzarella, with its creamy texture and mild flavour, can provide a nice contrast to the wine without being overwhelmed.

Additionally, you can try to match a flavour in the cheese with a flavour in the wine. For example, the fruity notes in Chianti may be complemented by the milky sweetness of fresh mozzarella.

Overall, fresh mozzarella's creamy texture and mild, milky flavour can make it a good pairing with Chianti. The cheese's versatility and freshness can enhance the wine's fruity notes, creating a delightful combination for the palate.

Alpine-style Comte

Comte is an Alpine-style cheese that is mild, great for melting, and has a supple texture. It is one of France's most famous cheeses, with a rich flavour of roasted hazelnuts, warm broth, and notes of dried fruit. Comte is a protected cheese, with strict rules for its preparation, and can only be made in certain municipalities in the Comte region of France.

When pairing cheese with Chianti, a Tuscan wine, the general rule of thumb is that harder cheeses match well with more tannic red wines like Chianti. The higher fat and protein content of the cheese balance the tannins in the wine, boosting the fruity flavours of the Sangiovese grapes in Chianti. Aged, hard, and nutty cheeses like Comte, therefore, pair well with Chianti. The boldness of the wine is balanced by the mildness of the cheese, and the nuttiness of the Comte complements the fruity notes of the Chianti.

In addition to Comte, other cheeses that go well with Chianti include aged Parmigiano, Pecorino, Grana Padano, Asiago, Provolone, Fontina, Cheddar, and Colby. These bold cheeses pair well with the full-bodied nature of Chianti, and the specific flavours of each cheese complement the wine's fruity notes.

When pairing food and wine, it is also worth noting that the wines of a region tend to match the food of that region, and this is especially true of Tuscany. So, Chianti pairs well with Tuscan foods like tomato sauces, pizza, pasta bakes, grilled meats, and even burgers.

Young Gouda

When it comes to wine pairings, Young Gouda is a versatile option that complements various wines, including fruity or dry red wines like Chianti. The mild, creamy taste of Young Gouda provides a delightful contrast to the bold, fruity flavours of Chianti, a full-bodied Tuscan wine. The higher fat and protein content in Young Gouda help to balance the tannins in Chianti, enhancing the taste of its fruity notes.

To create a well-rounded cheese platter, it is recommended to include other tasty snacks that will complement Young Gouda. Options such as fruits (grapes, blueberries, strawberries), dried fruits (apricots, dates, figs), and various nuts (walnuts, almonds, hazelnuts) can provide a diverse range of flavours and textures.

In addition to Chianti, Young Gouda also pairs well with speciality flavoured crackers. Extra Virgin Olive Oil and Sea Salt Crackers, for example, have subtle flavours that allow the full range of Gouda's flavours to shine through. The crackers' firm texture, with a crunchy snap, makes them an excellent choice for any cheese lover.

When serving Young Gouda, it is essential to keep it refrigerated at a temperature between 2°C and 10°C. Once opened or cut, it is perishable and should be consumed promptly to ensure optimal freshness and flavour.

English Cheshire, Dutch young or semi-mature Gouda, and Italian Taleggio

When it comes to cheese, a few varieties that complement Chianti particularly well are English Cheshire, Dutch young or semi-mature Gouda, and Italian Taleggio.

English Cheshire cheese, produced in the county of Cheshire and neighbouring regions, is known for its dense and crumbly texture and mild, salty flavour. It ranges from white to red and blue varieties, with the white being the most common. This cheese has a long history, dating back to at least the 16th century, and was once the most popular cheese in the late 18th century. Its moist, crumbly texture and mild taste can provide a nice contrast to the dryness and herbal notes of Chianti.

Dutch young or semi-mature Gouda can also be a delightful pairing with Chianti. Gouda, in general, is a versatile cheese that can be aged to varying degrees, resulting in different flavours and textures. The younger versions tend to be milder, creamier, and slightly sweet, while semi-mature Gouda develops a more crystalline texture and a deeper, slightly nutty flavour. The smoothness of young or semi-mature Gouda can create an enjoyable contrast to the robust character of Chianti.

Italian Taleggio, a classic washed-rind cheese, offers a unique experience when paired with Chianti. This square-shaped cheese from Northern Italy has a mildly pungent, fruity, and meaty flavour profile. Its elastic, doughy texture makes it ideal for melting, and its savoury, beefy notes can stand up to the robust flavours of Chianti. Taleggio is often enjoyed melted over roasted potatoes or paired with rustic salami, making it a versatile choice for culinary creations.

When creating a cheese platter to accompany Chianti, consider including a variety of textures and flavours, such as the crumbly Cheshire, smooth Gouda, and pungent Taleggio. The contrast between the cheeses and the wine will enhance your tasting experience and provide a delightful sensory journey.

Frequently asked questions