Wine and cheese is a timeless combination that humans have been relishing for centuries. But with so many varieties of both, it’s easy to make at least a few disastrous decisions. If you want to avoid horrifying guests with a problematic pairing, you’re in the right place. Whether you prefer to pick vintage drops in person or buy Yarra Valley wine online, this guide will equip you to create delightful flavor harmonies on your next cheeseboard adventure.
Understanding the Basics: Balance is Key
The key to cheese and wine harmony lies in achieving balance. Consider the intensity, texture, and acidity of both the cheese and the wine. Robust cheeses with bold flavors need wines that can stand up to them, while delicate cheeses require lighter-bodied partners. For example, creamy brie begs for the crisp acidity of a Sauvignon Blanc, while robust cheddar finds its match in the full-bodied tannins of a Cabernet Sauvignon.
Acidity to the Rescue: A Matchmaker for All Cheeses
As briefly touched on in point one, acidity plays a crucial role in cheese and wine pairings. The acidity in wine acts as a palate cleanser, cutting through the richness of cheese and enhancing its flavors. Here’s a general rule of thumb:
- High-Acidity Cheeses: Fresh cheeses like goat cheese or feta often have a bright tang. Pair them with crisp white wines with high acidity, like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio. These wines complement the cheese’s tang and prevent it from feeling heavy.
- Medium-Acidity Cheeses: Semi-soft cheeses like mozzarella or havarti have a milder flavor profile. They can be paired with a wider range of wines, including unoaked Chardonnays with moderate acidity or light-bodied reds like Pinot Noir.
- Low-Acidity Cheeses: Aged cheeses like cheddar or gruyère have a deeper, nuttier flavor. They require full-bodied wines with lower acidity, such as Cab Sav or Merlot. The tannins in these wines soften the cheese’s texture, creating a delightful contrast.
Beyond Acidity: Exploring Flavor Profiles
Acidity is just one piece of the puzzle. Explore the following strategies for creating truly memorable cheese and wine pairings:
- Matching Intensity: Pair strong cheeses with robust wines. Bold blue cheeses like roquefort call for powerful wines like port or a full-bodied Zinfandel.
- Complementary Flavors: Sweet cheeses like gorgonzola pair beautifully with sweet wines like Sauternes or a late-harvest Riesling. The sweetness of the wine complements the cheese’s caramelized notes.
- Contrasting Textures: Creamy cheeses like brie or camembert are a match made in heaven for sparkling wines like Champagne or Prosecco. The bubbles cut through the richness of the cheese, creating a refreshing contrast.
Building a Winning Cheeseboard: A Step-by-Step Guide
Now that you’re armed with the basics, let’s build a fantasy cheeseboard, featuring wine pairings made in heaven:
- Start with Variety: Select cheeses from different milk types (cow, goat, sheep) and textures (soft, hard, blue). This variety keeps the tasting experience interesting.
- Consider the Order: Arrange the cheeses from mild to strong, allowing the flavors to build gradually. Start with fresh cheeses and work your way up to aged varieties.
- Accompaniment Symphony: Include accompaniments that enhance the cheese and wine pairings. Fruits like grapes, pears, and figs add a touch of sweetness. Honey or jams complement strong cheeses. Don’t forget crusty bread to cleanse your palate between bites.
- Wine Selection: Based on your chosen cheeses, select two or three wines with varying styles. Start with a lighter-bodied white wine and progress to a fuller-bodied red.
With a little knowledge and a touch of experimentation, you can become a cheese and wine pairing pro. So, grab your favorite cheese board, uncork a bottle, and embark on a delicious journey of flavor discovery.
