Wine Pairing Guide: Perfect Combinations for Cheese & Charcuterie
Discover the art of wine pairing with our comprehensive guide. Learn which cheeses pair with red wine, how to create the perfect charcuterie board with wine pairings, and master the fundamentals of food and wine combinations that will elevate your dining experience.
Red Wine Pairings
Click any red wine below to discover perfect cheese and charcuterie pairings
Wine and Food Pairing Fundamentals
Best Cheese Pairings for Red Wine
Bold red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon pair beautifully with aged cheeses such as aged cheddar, gouda, and blue cheese. The tannins in red wine complement the rich, sharp flavors of these cheeses.
- Cabernet Sauvignon: Aged cheddar, gouda, blue cheese
- Pinot Noir: Brie, camembert, gruyere
- Merlot: Manchego, pecorino, soft goat cheese
Perfect White Wine and Cheese Combinations
White wines excel with lighter, creamier cheeses. Crisp whites like Sauvignon Blanc cut through rich, creamy textures, while oaked Chardonnays complement nuttier, more complex cheeses.
- Chardonnay: Brie, triple cream, aged gruyere
- Sauvignon Blanc: Fresh goat cheese, feta, ricotta
- Riesling: Blue cheese, aged cheddar (sweet contrast)
Charcuterie Board Wine Pairing Tips
Creating the perfect charcuterie board with wine requires balancing flavors and textures. Consider the saltiness of cured meats, the richness of pâtés, and the acidity needed to cleanse the palate.
- Prosciutto & Salami: Chianti, Sangiovese, or Côtes du Rhône
- Pâté & Terrines: Beaujolais, light Pinot Noir
- Smoked Meats: Zinfandel, Syrah, or oaked Chardonnay
White Wine Pairings
Explore white wine and food combinations for lighter fare
Expert Wine Pairing Tips
How to Pair Wine with Cheese
The key to successful wine and cheese pairing is balancing intensity. Match light wines with delicate cheeses and bold wines with strong, aged varieties. Consider texture too - creamy cheeses often pair well with acidic wines.
Building a Charcuterie Board
A great charcuterie board with wine includes 3-4 cheeses of varying textures, 2-3 cured meats, fresh and dried fruits, nuts, and crusty bread. Choose wines that complement multiple elements on your board.
Seasonal Wine Pairings
Adapt your food and wine combinations to the season. Lighter whites work well with spring vegetables, while robust reds complement hearty winter dishes and aged cheeses.