- Tasting
Fresh, soft or goat's cheese: which wine to drink?
- Wed, Mar 27, 2024 at 10:00
The different varieties of cheese
Cheeses, rich in history and variety, offer an infinite palette of flavours, textures and aromas. From fresh, creamy cheeses to intense blue-veined cheeses, each type of cheese carries with it the essence of its terroir and artisan know-how. Among the countless varieties are delicately tangy goat's cheeses, soft cheeses such as Camembert and Brie, pressed cheeses such as Gruyère and Comté, and blue cheeses such as Roquefort and Gorgonzola. So what wine should you drink with these cheeses?
Fresh goat's cheese: white wine is obvious
The creamy texture and subtly tangy taste of goat's cheese make it a perfect choice to accompany a lively, fruity white wine. Imagine savouring a bite of this goat's cheese with a glass of fresh Sauvignon Blanc. The floral aromas and citrus notes of this white wine will enhance the sweetness of the goat's cheese. It's the perfect match for a gourmet evening with friends or a well-deserved moment of relaxation.
Soft cheese: red or white wine?
Soft cheeses such as Camembert or Brie are creamy and delicate on the palate. Their melt-in-the-mouth texture and rich flavour beg to be accompanied by a white or light red wine. Imagine enjoying a slice of Camembert with a glass of chilled Chardonnay: the ripe fruit flavours and light oaky touch of the wine will perfectly complement the softness of the cheese. Or opt for a Burgundy Pinot Noir, which will bring out the earthy, buttery notes of your favourite Brie.
Pressed cheese: red wine again and again
Pressed cheeses such as Gruyère or Comté offer a robust, full-bodied experience on the palate. Their firm texture and complex flavours beg to be paired with structured, tannin-rich red wines. Enjoy a slice of Gruyère with a glass of full-bodied Merlot: the red fruit notes and supple tannins of the wine will complement the richness of the cheese. Or opt for an intense Cabernet Sauvignon to bring out the nutty, caramel flavours of the Comté.
Blue cheese rhymes with sweet wine
Blue cheeses, such as Roquefort or Gorgonzola, are rather strong cheeses that offer an explosion of flavours on the palate. Their creamy texture and savoury nuances are best paired with sweet or fortified wines. How about a generous slice of Roquefort with a glass of golden Sauternes? The honey and apricot aromas of the wine will sublimate the richness of the cheese. Or opt for a vintage porto that will enhance the nutty, caramel notes of your favourite Gorgonzola.
Say cheese !
Whether you prefer red wines, white or sweet wines, the important thing is to discover, experiment and savour these pairings that celebrate the richness and diversity of the world of cheese. On this day dedicated to this milky wonder, dare to explore new horizons and let yourself be carried away by the perfect harmony between wine and cheese.