Merlot + Gouda
A mild, semi-soft cheese like Gouda is particularly fantastic when paired with a tannic Merlot that showcases plenty of red, ripe fruit.
TRY WITH:
Lumière de Vie 2012 California Merlot
Zinfandel + Havarti A powerful wine with spicy or smoky flavors like a Zinfandel is counteracted by the mild creaminess of this Danish cow’s milk cheese.TRY WITH:
Fleur Bleu 2014 California Zinfandel
Cabernet + Sharp Cheddar Only a sharp cheese like Cheddar can hold up to the strength of a big, bold Cab (whether it be a Cab Sauvignon or Cab Franc).TRY WITH:
Lumière De Vie 2014 California Cabernet Sauvignon
Harlow Court 2013 North Coast Cabernet Franc
Pinot Noir + Blue Cheese An earthy Pinot Noir with creamy flavors of berries and plums pairs well with the salty, spicy pungency of a rich blue cheese.TRY WITH:
Elan Cellars 2013 Napa Valley Pinot Noir
Chardonnay + Camembert
These two form a perfect union. Creamy, soft-ripened Camembert will counteract the acidity of a crisp Chardonnay, enhance a fruity Chardonnay or complement a rich, buttery Chard.
TRY WITH:
Joy Cellars 2014 Lodi Chardonnay
Fleur Bleu 2015 Lodi Chardonnay
Sparkling Wine + Brie A glass of slightly sweet bubbly with good acidity throughout the palate calls for a soft, mild cheese like Brie. Want to take this pairing over the edge? Two words: baked Brie.TRY WITH:
Petit Cadeau Semi-Seco Sparkling Wine
Sauvignon Blanc + Goat Cheese The zip and zest of a Sauvignon Blanc is equaled by the acidity and bite of goat cheese or young goat cheese – called chèvre. This pairing is a classic for a reason.TRY WITH:
Adagio 2014 Valle Central, Chile Sauvignon Blanc
Lumière de Vie 2015 California Sauvignon Blanc
Muscat + Swiss A fragrant, invitingly sweet white wine like Muscat is complemented by a mild cheese like Swiss, which allows the flavors of the wine to shine through.TRY WITH:
