Cheese and wine! Wine and cheese! Such a quintessentially perfect pairing that really has stood the test of time.
I’m often asked to recommend a stellar wine and cheese pairing. Well, with so many choices and variables to consider, it’s often a tough call. Before making any recommendations, I always try to get a sense of the occasion and if possible, palate preferences. One person’s die-hard favourite cheese might just be another person’s worst nightmare. When in doubt, stick to classic pairings eg: Stilton and Port, Gruyere and Pinot Noir, Brie and Champagne etc…
However, if you’re a more adventurous winer and diner, then I highly recommend venturing outside your comfort zone and just simply exploring something new! There is such a treasure trove of incredible cheeses and wines just waiting to be discovered and enjoyed. I’m sure you really don’t want to be the one missing out! We have a ‘stinky cheese’ night tradition once a week in our house where we introduce new cheeses to our children, while my husband and I enjoy a selection of wines to pair. It’s been such a huge success that my children are now turophiles (cheese lovers!!). This isn’t something has simply happened over night, but rather, their appreciation for cheese has developed over time. Our olfactory (the organs working together to smell aromas) together with our palates are so sensitive and complex, that it takes awhile to get accustomed to a new aroma, flavour or texture. Let’s be honest, some cheeses take quite a bit of time to fully appreciate and enjoy!
To take the challenge out of pairing wine and cheese, I have created the Vigneview™ Wine and Cheese Pairing Guide to help you discover your perfect pairing with greater confidence.
Please, click here for the printable Vigneview™ Wine and Cheese Pairing guide.
Additionally, you may find that a cheese and wine that pair beautifully together despite not being listed below. To this I say…”Well Done!” So, go forth and start exploring, understanding and most of all, enjoying wine and cheese in all it’s glory!
Cheers!! xx
