Through my experience at FSU, I was invited to take an International Wine class. It was surprisingly challenging, to say the least, but I think I learned some really interesting facts along the way. Besides all the regional facts on wine, we also learned some great wine and cheese pairings that will make your taste buds jump over-the-moon. I haven't gotten to try all of them myself (yet), but the ones I have tried, were actually quite amazing! I've compiled a list of pairings you can incorporate when having people over and blow their minds away.
1. Pinot Noir and brie
These are two of my favorite things in the whole world, Pinot Noir and brie. It sounds simple, I know, but something about this combo will change your life forever. The soft, sweet taste of brie goes very nicely with the stronger taste of the Pinot Noir. Since this red wine isn't strong enough to completely diminish the flavors of the cheese, you still get to enjoy the unique taste. I personally rank this number one, but that may be because of my love of brie in general.
2. Pinot Grigio and mozzarella
On the complete other side of the spectrum, we have Pinot Grigio. A very light, sweet wine that goes fantastic with mozzarella, or any other mild Italian cheese for that matter. Pinot Grigio is actually known to pair well with Italian food in general, so it makes sense that mozzarella works so perfectly with it.
3. Aged cheddar and Riesling
I haven't done too much Riesling tasting in my lifetime, but I do know that aged cheddar goes fabulously with a tall glass of it. Something about the saltiness of the aged cheddar and the sweet, fruity taste of Riesling make a perfect match. If you're not a white wine person, you'll be happy to know that aged cheddar happens to go amazingly with certain reds too, such as Merlot or any other tannic red.
4. Prosecco and parmesan
This pairing is super catchy-sounding together, for good reason. Both deriving from Italian cuisine, maybe this was purposeful. Prosecco is rather bubbly and goes well with the bitter, salty taste of Parmesan cheese. To create this pairing, try incorporating a light meal featuring parmesan to make it easier.
5. Sauvignon Blanc and goat cheese
I'm a huge lover of goat cheese, but I do understand it's not for everyone. Even if you don't necessarily love goat cheese, you may still want to try this pairing. A lot of the time, wine and cheese change taste depending on other things you're consuming simultaneously. Goat cheese is a super tangy cheese which creates a tasty medley mixed with this acidic wine.
6. Zinfandel and bleu cheese
Pairing bleu cheese can be really scary since the taste is so intense. I'm not head-over-heels in love with bleu cheese, but my taste buds have adjusted to the idea of it after trying some of these pairings. The bold flavors in Zinfandel truly mix well with the other bold flavors in bleu cheeses. Pick some up and try it for yourself, don't be too intimidated!
7. Merlot and gouda
Merlot is, by far, one of my favorite types of wine. You can use any type of gouda cheese for this pairing, but I actually prefer a smoked one. The smoky flavor accentuates the herby, flowery taste of the Merlot. It brings out flavors you never even knew were buried deep in the wines! If you don't like smoky flavored cheeses, a classic gouda will go just as well.
8. Rosé and feta
I had to include a good Rosé pairing in the list, of course, since the flavors are so distinct. Rosé is very fruity compared to other wines, so it makes sense why feta works so well with it. Feta is often mixed into fruity salads because it really enhances sweet flavors! Feta does have a slightly goat-cheesy taste, but keep your mind open!
You won't be able to try them all in one day, most likely, but keep trying new pairings to discover your favorite! You won't regret your decision to try these out!
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