Wine & Cheese Pairings
Wine and cheese pairings are a classic combination that never goes out of style. Whether you're hosting a party or simply enjoying a night in, finding the perfect cheese to complement your wine can enhance the flavors of both. While it may seem daunting to choose the right pairing, there are tried-and-true principles that can help guide your selection. So, next time you're selecting cheese and wine, keep in mind the importance of finding the right balance between the two for a delicious experience and check out our wine and cheese pairings guide below!
Here are a few pairing pointers to consider:
Cabernet Sauvignon Cheese Pairing
If you’re drinking Cabernet Sauvignon, try pairing it with an Extra Sharp Cheddar cheese. The full body of the wine helps bring out the bold flavor qualities of a strong cheese.
First things first, why does cheese pair so well with wine? Well, the acidity and tannins in wine can cut through the fat in cheese, making for a delicious and balanced pairing.
When it comes to Cabernet Sauvignon, you'll want to choose a semi-hard cheese with some age to it. These cheeses can help enhance the flavor of the wine while balancing out the tannins that can leave your mouth feeling dry.
Avoid creamy or soft cheeses, as they can make the wine taste bitter or metallic. And super hard cheeses can enhance the tannins too much, making your mouth too dry.
So, what are some good cheese options for pairing with Cabernet Sauvignon? Well, cheddar cheese is always a safe bet. Aged and sharp cheddar has just the right amount of flavor and fat content to balance the tannins while bringing out the citrus notes in the wine.
But don't be afraid to experiment with other semi-hard, aged cheeses with higher fat content to find your perfect pairing. Just remember, the goal is to find a cheese that complements the wine without overpowering it, and vice versa.
Merlot Cheese Pairing
Merlot is a versatile red wine that pairs well with a variety of foods, including different types of cheese. When paired with a Garlic Herb Cheddar cheese, the combination creates a delightful experience for the taste buds.
Merlot is known for its dry fruitiness, which makes it a great match for sharp or tangy cheeses. The rich and bold flavor of the Garlic Herb Cheddar cheese complements the complex notes of the Merlot, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.
In addition to the cheese's sharpness, the garlic and herb flavor from the cheese adds an extra layer of flavor that complements the fruitiness of the Merlot. The garlic and herb bites back, providing a contrast to the wine's smoothness, making the pairing even more enjoyable.
Moreover, the tannins present in Merlot help to cut through the fat in the cheese, making the combination even more pleasing to the palate. Overall, pairing Merlot with Garlic Herb Cheddar cheese is an excellent choice for wine and cheese lovers who want to experience a delicious and memorable flavor combination.
Chardonnay Cheese Pairing
Chardonnay, a white wine with a crisp and fruity flavor, pairs exceptionally well with Mild Cheddar or Colby Jack cheese. The reason for this pairing is that the wine's acidity cuts through the richness of the cheese, making it less overwhelming on the palate. Furthermore, the creamy texture of the mild cheeses blends well with the wine's fruitiness, creating a balanced and harmonious taste.
Mild Cheddar or Colby Jack cheese has a smooth, buttery flavor that complements the fruity undertones of the Chardonnay. This pairing creates a delightful contrast in flavors, with the sweetness of the cheese complementing the wine's crisp acidity. The mildness of the cheese also allows the wine's fruitiness to shine through, creating a pleasant and refreshing taste. The combination of Chardonnay and mild cheese is perfect for an afternoon snack or a pre-dinner appetizer.
In summary, pairing Chardonnay with Mild Cheddar or Colby Jack cheese is an excellent choice for those who appreciate a balanced and nuanced taste experience. The fruity and crisp flavor of the wine complements the creaminess of the cheese, creating a delicious contrast that is sure to please the palate.
Moscato Cheese Pairing
Lastly, Moscato is a type of wine that is known for its sweetness, lightness, and fruity flavors. It is typically made from the Muscat grape and has a lower alcohol content compared to other wines.
The sweetness of Moscato can complement the spiciness of certain types of cheeses, such as Pepper Jack. This is because the sugar in the wine can help balance out the heat in the cheese and enhance its creamy texture.
Additionally, the fruity notes of Moscato can also bring out the flavors of the cheese, creating a harmonious pairing. Moreover, the lightness of Moscato makes it a great choice for pairing with spicy foods, as it doesn't overwhelm the palate with too much alcohol or tannins.
Overall, if you're a fan of sweet and spicy flavor combinations, pairing Moscato with Pepper Jack is definitely worth a try!
Don’t want to pair your cheeses alone? Try these recipes to serve with your wine:
This Pesto and Arugula Grilled Cheese goes great with a glass of Pinot Grigio.
These Air Fryer Stuffed Poppers would taste great with a glass of Moscato.
Pair this Festive Cabot Cheddar Tree with a glass of Pinot Noir.
Looking for even more inspiration? See how the Cabot team likes to enjoy their favorite cheeses and wine.