Wine and Cheese Pairings Made Simple: Part 1

Hosting a last minute gathering? Be the hostess with the mostest and try these three simple wine + cheese pairings that are worthy of everyone’s attention.

Below are three domestic and international cheeses from our shop, paired with our top wine picks to bring out the best in each one.

1.McKinley Clothbound Cheddar

This British-style clothbound cheddar, crafted by WM Cofield Cheesemakers (in Sebastopol, CA) is finely aged for 12 months in muslin cloth - developing a rich, nutty flavor with hints of earthy sweetness. Its complexity and depth make it a favorite for those who appreciate nuanced flavors.

• Wine Pairing: Cabernet Sauvignon
  The boldness of Cabernet Sauvignon and its notes of black current + dark cherry enhances McKinley Cheddar’s savory richness.

• Alternative Pairing: Sparkling Apple Cider
  For a lighter option, we recommend a sparkling apple cider that not only adds a refreshing and slightly sweet contrast to the cheddar, but also balances its complex flavors.

For holiday gatherings, we also love to use this in Mac and cheese recipes, while pairing with a full bodied red wine.

1.Mimolette by Isigny St Mere

With its vibrant orange hue and firm texture, Mimolette features a sweet and nutty flavor profile. Handcrafted by Isigny St Mere in Normandy, France - this cheese brings a caramel-like finish that’s goes perfectly with wine, but also a medium-roast coffee for warm pairing.

• Wine Pairing: Chardonnay
  A creamy, full-bodied Chardonnay pairs perfectly with Mimolette, complementing its nutty sweetness enhancing its buttery and apple-like notes.

• Alternative Pairing: Sauvignon Blanc
  For a lighter pairing, Sauvignon Blanc adds a crisp, citrusy note that contrasts well with the cheese’s rich texture.

• Coffee Pairing: Medium-Roast Coffee
  The smooth, nutty profile of a medium roast coffee enhances Mimolette’s sweetness while balancing its firm texture. Look for a coffee with chocolate or caramel undertones for a perfectly complementary pairing that is a top pick around the holidays!

Photo Source: essexcheese.com/lamuse-gouda

1.L’Amuse Signature Gouda

L’Amuse Signature Gouda is an ideal choice for cheese lovers, offering a fudgy texture and a savory-sweet balance with caramelized flavor. This cheese is aged to perfection for 2+ years in Amersterdam, Netherlands by Fromagerie L’Amuse.

• Wine Pairing: Merlot
  Merlot’s round, fruity profile enhances the sweet and nutty flavors of aged gouda, pairing perfectly with its caramel notes.

• Alternative Pairing: Port
  Port wine’s sweetness amplifies the caramelized richness of this gouda. This combo works well as a dessert pairing that balances sweet and savory flavors of the two. Perfect way to end a wine and cheese pairing night.

Head to our shop, Fior Di Latte in The Hangar to snag a few of these pairings and ask us about our new non-alcoholic wine selection.