How to Pair Wine with Gourmet Cheese

The pairing of wine and cheese is one of gastronomy's greatest pleasures, a tradition that spans centuries and cultures. While the combinations can seem endless, understanding a few fundamental principles will help you create pairings that enhance both the wine and the cheese.

The first principle is balance: match the intensity of the wine with the intensity of the cheese. A delicate, fresh goat cheese will be overwhelmed by a bold Cabernet Sauvignon, just as a pungent blue cheese will overpower a light Pinot Grigio. Aim for partners that can stand up to each other without either one dominating.

Regional pairings are a reliable starting point. Cheeses and wines that come from the same region have often evolved together over centuries, and there is usually a natural affinity between them. French Brie with Champagne, Italian Parmigiano-Reggiano with Chianti, and Spanish Manchego with Tempranillo are classic examples of this principle.

For creamy, soft cheeses like Brie and Camembert, look for wines with good acidity that can cut through the richness. Champagne and sparkling wines are exceptional here, as are crisp white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or Chablis. The bubbles and acidity cleanse the palate between bites, creating a refreshing contrast.

Semi-hard cheeses like Gouda, Gruyere, and Cheddar are the most versatile for pairing. Young versions work well with medium-bodied white wines, while aged varieties stand up beautifully to fuller-bodied reds. A well-aged Gouda with its caramel notes pairs magnificently with a rich Merlot or even a tawny Port.

Hard, aged cheeses like Parmigiano-Reggiano and Pecorino Romano call for wines with structure and complexity. An aged Barolo, a robust Cabernet Sauvignon, or even a dry Sherry can match the concentrated flavours of these cheeses. The saltiness of aged cheeses also makes them surprisingly good partners for sweet wines.

Blue cheeses present a unique pairing challenge due to their strong, pungent flavours. The classic pairing is with sweet dessert wines: Stilton with Port, Roquefort with Sauternes, or Gorgonzola with a late-harvest Riesling. The sweetness of the wine tempers the saltiness and funk of the cheese, creating harmony from contrast.

For your next cheese and wine evening, we recommend our Wine and Cheese Pairing Hamper, which includes a curated selection of artisanal Indian cheeses paired with tasting notes and suggested wine matches. It is the perfect way to explore these pairings from the comfort of your home.