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The art of pairing wine and cheese is a gastronomic masterpiece that has the ability to transport your taste buds to unforgettable heights of culinary delight. When the perfect marriage of cheese and thoughtfully chosen wine takes place a harmonious symphony of flavours results, captivating the discerning palate and cutting a lasting memory. Every exquisite cheese boasts its own distinct set of characteristics, which gracefully intertwine with a myriad of wines, elevating their already delightful taste profiles. Indulge in the velvety smoothness of Brie, a cheese that tantalises the palate with its luxurious creaminess. Pair it with a wine that complements its delicate flavours, allowing them to dance harmoniously on your taste buds. And then, there's the aged cheddar, a cheese that commands attention with its bold and sharp character. Seek out a wine that can stand up to its robust personality, creating a symphony of flavours that will leave you craving more. Indeed, the world of cheese and wine is a delightful journey of discovering the perfect companions for each delectable bite. Indulging in the art of wine and cheese pairings is like embarking on a delectable journey, whether you find yourself playing the gracious host at a soirée or relishing a serene evening. Prepare to get on a captivating expedition that is bound to leave an unfading impression on your discerning palate.
We have compiled the recommendations of India's only Master of Wine, Sonal C Holland, who outlines the best wine and cheese pairings in detail below.
Fresh Cheeses - Bocconcini, Mozzarella, Ricotta
These fresh and light cheeses deserve wines that complement their delicate flavours.
Perfect Wine Pairings: Crisp Italian Pinot Grigio, Juicy Pinot Noir, or Fruity Beaujolais.
Soft, Creamy Cheeses - Brie, Camembert
Creamy cheeses that coat your mouth call for wines that cleanse the palate and leave a clean finish.
Perfect Wine Pairings: Sancerre (Sauvignon Blanc-based), Champagne, or Chablis. If you’re a red wine lover, try a juicy Valpolicella.
Semi-Hard Cheeses - Gouda, Gruyere, Edam
Nutty and mild, semi-hard cheeses harmonize well with certain whites and savoury reds.
Perfect Wine Pairings: Oaked Californian Chardonnay or Earthy Italian Chianti Classico/Côtes du Rhône.
Hard Cheeses - Parmigiano Reggiano, Pecorinoo
Crumbly and salty hard cheeses demand rich, full-bodied wines to complement their complexity.
Perfect Wine Pairings: Red Bordeaux, Opulent Australian Shiraz, or Robust Argentinian Malbec. Don’t forget vintage Champagnes!
Blue Cheeses - Classic Blue Cheeses
Embrace the pungency of blue cheeses with sweet wines that balance the strong flavors.
Perfect Wine Pairings: Classic Vintage Port or Sweet Noble Riesling from Germany.
She also shares a quick tip that cheese is ideally served at room temperature; if it's too cold or too warm, neither the flavour nor the texture will be at its peak.
