The Essential Guide to Wine and Cheese Pairing
Pairing wine and cheese is an art form that has been around for centuries. When done correctly, the right wine can enhance the flavor of the cheese, and vice versa. Here is your essential guide to wine and cheese pairing.
Rule #1: Pair Bold with Bold
When it comes to pairing cheese with wine, the general rule of thumb is to pair bold with bold. This means that strong cheeses, like blue cheese or aged cheddar, will pair well with full-bodied red wines, such as Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah.
Rule #2: Match the Origin
Another helpful tip when pairing wine and cheese is to think about where the cheese comes from. This is because wines and cheeses from the same region tend to complement each other well. For example, a French Bordeaux will pair perfectly with a creamy brie, while an Italian Chianti will pair well with parmesan.
Rule #3: Consider the Texture
Texture is just as important as flavor when it comes to pairing wine and cheese. Soft cheeses like goat cheese will pair best with lighter-bodied wines, such as Pinot Grigio or Sauvignon Blanc. Harder, aged cheeses will pair well with fuller-bodied wines, such as Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon.
Rule #4: Don't Forget About Sweet Wines
While many people think of pairing cheese with red or white wine, don't forget about the power of a good sweet wine. A dessert-like cheese, such as blueberry stilton or gorgonzola dolce, will pair well with a sweet wine like a port or sherry.
Quick Tips
- Pair salty cheeses with acidic wines
- Pair creamy cheeses with fruity wines
- Pair nutty cheeses with dry wines
When it comes down to it, wine and cheese pairing is all about experimentation. Use these guidelines as a starting point, but don't be afraid to try new pairings and find what works best for your taste buds.
Happy tasting!
