NATIONAL WINE AND CHEESE DAY

The Best Wine and Cheese Pairings

Although we unofficially celebrate this occasion once every week (or more), today we can come together and raise a glass to the official National Wine and Cheese Day! Few things go together as well as this brilliant pair, and we’re here to make sure you perfect this combination on this tasty occasion. Whether you prefer red or white wine, or more bold versus mild cheeses, this guide has exactly the variety that you are looking for with 10 different pairings that will be sure to impress and satisfy. So gather your comrades, and cheers to a day spent enjoying each other’s company over an exquisite blend of wines and cheeses.

White Wines

Prosecco and Parmesan

To compliment a hard cheese like Parmesan, pair it with a bubble Prosecco. The carbonation of the wine cuts through the salty flavors of the cheese and is a great choice for a special occasion. They also both originated in Italy, so share your expertise with your friends!

Sauvignon Blanc and Goat Cheese

For a pungent flavor like goat cheese, it is best paired with a refreshing crisp wine like Sauvignon Blanc. This distinct white wine holds a grassy flavor that balances out the tangy nature of this crumbly fresh cheese.

Chardonnay and Gruyere

Gruyere is an amazing cheese whether kept in it’s hard form, or melted down into a fondue. For this cheese, Chardonnay is the ideal wine. It’s fruity and nutty flavors perfectly compliment the Gruyere’s distinct, yet not overpowering, swiss-like taste.

Mozzarella and Pinot Grigio

For a classic cheese like Mozzarella that’s used in pizzas, pastas, and various other Italian dishes, you can never go wrong with a bottle of Pinot Grigio. The acidity of this zesty white wine gives off a refreshing light taste, that is thoroughly enjoyed alongside the semi-sweet and soft mozzarella.

Riesling and Ricotta

For a sweet and creamy cheese like ricotta, pair it with a bottle of tangy Riesling. This classic German wine comes in both sweet and dry variations, both which taste fantastic with ricotta. The Italian cheese will make your mouth water for a fruity and floral wine like Riesling.

Red Wines

Rioja and Manchego

For decades, the Spanish have religiously paired Rioja and Manchego - two popular wines and cheeses originating in Spain. There’s no reason to change this classic duo, as the light and fruity characteristics of the wine applause the sweet flavor of the classic hard cheese.

Pinot Nior and Brie

Due to it’s distinctly rich and full flavor, Brie needs a wine that compliments, but doesn’t overwhelm, it’s powerful taste. Proclaimed as brie’s best friend, Pinot Noir is without a doubt the best option. This romanticized red wine carries a classic flavor that won’t disrupt your strong flavor palette.

Merlot and Monterey Jack

Monterey Jack, a classic American cheese, requires a wine that’s on the fruitier side. Merlot is fitting for this cheese because it’s riper essence brings more intensity to the mild flavor of the hard cheese.

Malbec and Aged Cheddar

Being on the more aggressive side of sharp cheeses, aged cheddar needs more mild wines to balance it out. Malbec, a go-to crowd pleaser, carries nutty and salty flavors that blend well with hard cheeses like aged cheddar.

Cabernet Sauvignon and Aged Gouda

The nutty flavors in aged gouda require a tannic, full bodied wine that can stand up to it’s flavor. The French wine, Cabernet Sauvignon, is ideal for aged gouda due to it’s success in aging through it’s storage and bottled stages of life. You can’t go wrong with this classic wine and cheese pairing.