The Perfect Wine And Halloumi Cheese Pairing

Halloumi is a semi-hard cheese made from a mixture of goat and sheep milk. Known as the grilling cheese, it is a versatile ingredient that can be cooked in many ways and paired with a variety of wines. But which wines complement its savoury, slightly salty flavour and unique texture?

White wines with crisp acidity

When it comes to wine, halloumi – a semi-hard cheese made from goat and sheep milk – is impressively versatile. It can be enjoyed with a variety of different wines, but some white wines with crisp acidity are particularly good companions.

A French Chenin Blanc is an excellent choice for a white wine with halloumi. This variety of white wine is known for its refreshing, crisp acidity, which makes it a perfect partner for the salty, savoury flavours of halloumi. Another option is a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc, which typically has a vibrant, crisp acidity and fresh, fruity flavours that can complement the unique texture and taste of halloumi.

If you're looking for a wine with a more mineral character, Assyrtiko is a wonderful option. This Greek wine, originally from the island of Santorini, offers characteristic citrus flavours and stone minerality, creating a refreshing pairing with halloumi. Chardonnay and Pinot Grigio are also recommended, with their crisp, clean profiles.

For those who enjoy oaked white wines, a Chardonnay is a good choice, adding a touch of oak to the crisp acidity that pairs so well with halloumi.

Dry rosé wines

Halloumi is a semi-hard cheese with a high melting point, making it perfect for grilling. Its firm texture and salty, savoury flavour make it a versatile cheese that can be enjoyed with a variety of wines, especially dry rosé.

When selecting a dry rosé to pair with halloumi, consider those with mineral and citrus notes, such as those from the Greek island of Santorini. These wines, made from the Assyrtiko grape, offer a unique pairing with their characteristic citrus flavours and stone minerality. The crisp, dry nature of these wines will beautifully offset the salty halloumi, creating a delightful sensory experience.

For a well-rounded culinary journey, consider serving grilled halloumi with a refreshing dry rosé, a combination that is sure to tantalise the taste buds and provide an enjoyable dining experience.

Red wines: Primitivo or Zinfandel

While halloumi is often enjoyed with white wines, such as Chardonnay, Chablis, or Assyrtiko, or sparkling wines like champagne, it also pairs beautifully with certain reds. Specifically, a Primitivo or a Zinfandel is an excellent choice to accompany this semi-hard cheese.

Primitivo and Zinfandel wines are made from the same grape variety, with the former being the Italian name and the latter being the American name. These wines are characterised by their robust, fruity flavours, with notes of blackberry, raspberry, and cherry. They also often feature hints of spice, vanilla, or black pepper. The bold, intense flavours of these wines are a perfect match for the salty, savoury taste of halloumi, creating a delightful contrast that will enhance the flavour of both the wine and the cheese.

When selecting a Primitivo or Zinfandel to pair with halloumi, look for a wine with a smooth, medium-bodied profile. A wine with a strong oaky flavour or high tannin content may overpower the more subtle nuances of the cheese. Instead, choose a bottle that highlights the fruit-forward, spicy characteristics of these varieties.

For an exceptional pairing experience, consider grilling the halloumi, as this cooking method adds beautiful grill marks and a savoury, slightly salty flavour that complements the wine. Whether enjoyed as part of a salad, wrapped in a warm pita, or simply grilled on its own, halloumi and a glass of Primitivo or Zinfandel make for a delightful culinary combination.

Sparkling white champagne

Halloumi is a semi-hard cheese made from a mixture of goat and sheep milk. It has a high melting point, a savoury and slightly salty flavour, and a firm texture.

When it comes to wine, sparkling varieties are a great choice to pair with halloumi. The crispness and bubbles of a sparkling wine bring out the best in lighter cheeses, while also enlivening aged cheeses with nutty nuances and strong blue cheeses. The unique combination of acid and bubbles in sparkling wines perfectly rinses the palate after a rich piece of cheese, clearing the way for the next bite.

When selecting a sparkling wine to pair with halloumi, consider the strength of the cheese. Young, uncomplex wines with nice acidity pair well with lighter cheeses, while heavier and more aged sparkling wines are better suited for aged cheeses. If you're looking for a true explosion of flavour, opt for a vintage champagne or cava, where time has allowed a complexity of flavours to develop while also reigning in the acidity.

Wheat beer

Halloumi is a semi-hard cheese made from a mixture of goat and sheep milk, with some varieties also containing cow's milk. It is known as "the grilling cheese" due to its high melting point, firm texture, and ability to be grilled, fried, or pan-fried. Halloumi is a versatile cheese that can be enjoyed with a variety of wines, including sparkling white champagne, white Chablis, and dry rosé. However, if you prefer beer, wheat beer is considered a great pairing with halloumi.

When pairing wheat beer with halloumi, consider the following:

• Texture: The creamy, silky texture of wheat beer can complement the firm, slightly squeaky texture of grilled halloumi.
• Flavor: Wheat beer's sweet and spicy notes can balance the salty, savory flavor of halloumi. The clove and banana aromas can enhance the overall taste experience.
• Food Combinations: Halloumi is often served grilled, fried, or as part of warm salads, wraps, or kebabs. When pairing wheat beer with halloumi dishes, consider the other ingredients used. For example, wheat beer's sweetness can pair well with ingredients like watermelon or honey, which are commonly used with halloumi.
• Temperature: Wheat beer is typically served chilled, providing a refreshing contrast to the warm, grilled halloumi.
• Regional Pairing: Halloumi originated in Cyprus, and wheat beer can be found in various regions, including Germany. If you're interested in a regional pairing, consider exploring Cypriot or German wheat beers to accompany your halloumi.

When choosing a wheat beer to pair with halloumi, look for a high-quality craft beer that is dry, not too bitter, and easy to drink. The specific brand and style of wheat beer can vary depending on your personal preference and the specific halloumi dish you're enjoying. Remember to enjoy both the cheese and the beer at their optimal temperatures to fully appreciate the flavors and textures.

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