Wine & Cheese: A Match Made In Heaven

In honour of National Wine & Cheese Day (July 25th) let's talk about everybody's favourite pairing... wine & cheese. 

Wine and cheese form an exquisite pairing, delighting the senses with their timeless harmony. The multifaceted nature of wine, boasting diverse flavours and aromas, seamlessly blends with the varied textures and tastes of cheese. When savouring a well-matched wine, its notes gracefully dance across the palate, perfectly complementing the creamy, sharp, or nutty characteristics of the cheese. The interplay of wine's acidity, tannins, and sweetness further enriches the cheese's flavours, while the cheese's richness offers a delightful contrast to the wine's subtleties. The amalgamation of these two delights creates a symphony of flavours, turning any occasion into an unforgettable and indulgent experience, pleasing both the palate and the soul.

Camembert & Brie

Their creamy texture and elegant flavours make them a beloved choice. Pair these cheeses with wines that offer a natural acidic backbone to balance their richness. Opt for a light-bodied white such as Vermentino or an oaked Chardonnay. The subtle and creamy characters in these cheeses also pairs well with an aged red such as Cabernet Sauvignon, showcasing the interplay of flavours and textures.

Ash or Truffle Brie

Ash brie brings a touch of smokiness to such a light cheese. Enhance this flavour with a dry wine with savoury aromas. The smokiness of the ash pairs well with wines with a fruity or earthy nature. Match with a crisp, fruity Sauvignon Blanc or a lighter-bodied, savoury red wine like Aglianico. With its notes of savoury spice and gentle earthiness, it's a perfect balance with the creaminess of the cheese.

For a truffle brie opt for an oaked white variety like Marsanne, as their complex aromas beautifully complement the strong truffle flavour without overpowering it. If you prefer red wine, a Merlot can also be a suitable choice, offering a delicate palate to harmonise with the truffle notes.

Clothbound or Smoked Cheddar

Pair it with powerful red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon, or Lambrusco, as their power matches the cheese's weight and tannins cut through the richness.

When it comes to smoked cheese, opt for fruit forward varieties like Carménère or Tinta Barroca or, if you prefer a white wine, consider an oaked variety such as Chardonnay or Marsanne.

Pure Blue

While it can be bold and intense, there are also mild and creamy variations, making it accessible for everyone. Pairing blue cheese with wine is a delightful adventure. Fortified wines like Muscat and Tawny are the perfect companions for the robust and complex flavours of blue cheese, adding a syrupy and nutty balance. In addition, a Moscato is considered an excellent pairing experience.

So, what are you waiting, shop your favourite wines today and try out some amazing pairings 🍷🧀