Cheese and Red Wine: A Love Affair
There's something about the combination of cheese and red wine that just works. From bold blues to creamy bries, the right wine can enhance the flavor of any type of cheese. Whether you're enjoying a snack at home or hosting a wine and cheese party, here are some tips for pairing red wine with your favorite cheeses.
Soft Cheese and Red Wine
- Brie: This buttery soft cheese pairs perfectly with a light-bodied red wine, such as Pinot Noir or Beaujolais. The subtle fruit flavors of these wines complement the mild, creamy taste of brie.
- Camembert: Another soft cheese that goes well with light-bodied reds, Camembert has a slightly nutty flavor that pairs well with Pinot Noir or a light Merlot.
Goat Cheese and Red Wine
- Chèvre: This tangy, crumbly cheese goes well with a medium-bodied red wine, such as a Shiraz or Zinfandel. These wines have enough acidity to balance out the sharpness of the cheese.
- Feta: Although not technically a goat cheese, feta has a similar tangy flavor that pairs well with a fruity, medium-bodied red wine like a Grenache or Sangiovese.
Hard Cheese and Red Wine
- Cheddar: The classic pairing for cheddar is a full-bodied red wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon or Merlot. The bold flavors of these wines stand up to the sharpness of the cheddar.
- Parmesan: This hard, salty cheese pairs well with a bold red wine like a Chianti or Bordeaux. The tannins in these wines help cut through the richness of the cheese.
Blue Cheese and Red Wine
- Gorgonzola: This pungent cheese pairs well with a full-bodied red wine such as a Syrah or Malbec. These wines have enough flavor and tannins to stand up to the strong flavor of the blue cheese.
- Roquefort: Another strong blue cheese, Roquefort pairs well with a bold red wine like a Zinfandel or Shiraz. The sweetness of these wines helps balance out the salty tang of the cheese.
No matter what type of cheese you're serving, it's always a good idea to have a few different red wines on hand to try. Experiment with different pairings to find your perfect match. And remember, when it comes to wine and cheese pairing, there are no hard and fast rules – it's all about what tastes good to you!