The secrets of perfect raclette

Winter is here, and with it the irresistible call of raclette. This mountain feast, where the cheese melts before our astonished eyes and the potatoes are adorned with gourmet goodness, is a long-awaited celebration of comfort and conviviality. But in this bewitching dance of flavours, one question persists: what wine can accompany this symphony of melted cheese to make our palates sing? Forget the traditional rules and let the magic happen!

Raclette, a ballet of flavours 

Raclette, the culinary treasure of the Swiss mountains, has its roots in the traditional peasant history of the canton of Valais. Its humble origins go back to the shepherds who, after long days watching over their flocks in the mountains, improvised simple meals around the fire. The ingenious idea of melting cheese near the embers, then scraping the golden, melting layer onto potatoes or bread, gave birth to this emblematic dish. Over time, raclette has become a symbol of conviviality and sharing, bringing families and friends together to enjoy this emblematic comfort food.   

White wines, elegant companions 

Start your exploration with a glass of white wine, as the refreshing acidity of certain grape varieties can perfectly balance the richness of the cheese. Varieties such as Riesling, lively and aromatic, provide a pleasant vivacity that harmoniously balances the richness of the melted cheese. The floral and fruity notes of this wine complement the creamy texture of the raclette. Similarly, a well-balanced Chardonnay offers nuances of white-fleshed fruit and elegant acidity that go wonderfully with the generosity of the dish.

Red wines, daring partners 

Red wine lovers, don't be afraid to be daring! White wines are often the stars when it comes to accompanying a raclette, but red wines shouldn't be relegated to the shadows. A delicate Pinot Noir or a fruity Gamay can be the ideal companion. Their lightness and supple tannins blend perfectly with the melting texture of the raclette, bringing a touch of freshness and liveliness to the feast.

Bubbles, the festive touch 

When it comes to pairing sparkling wines with raclette, we're entering the realms of boldness and vivacity. The cheerful bubbles of a Crémant or Prosecco offer a sparkling experience that awakens the taste buds and cleanses the palate between each bite. The elegant effervescence of these wines creates a stimulating contrast with the creamy richness of raclette, adding a light, festive dimension. The delicate acidity and fruity aromas of the sparkling wines subtly complement the palette of flavours, transforming your raclette into a feast for the senses.  

Fondant tip  

For the best experience, serve your wine slightly chilled to preserve its liveliness. Opt for fine stemmed glasses to fully appreciate the subtle aromas. Above all, let the wine and cheese meet on your palate, savour the interplay of each flavour and let yourself be intoxicated by this gustatory harmony. 

Dare the unexpected 

The art of choosing the perfect wine to accompany your raclette is not an exact science, but rather an oenogastronomic adventure. Let your personal preferences guide you and dare to experiment. Whether you prefer lively whites, delicate reds or even more daring alternatives, the important thing is to find the match that will delight your taste buds. Ladies and gentlemen, raclette season is officially open! Be creative, be daring and enjoy!