Pairing Cheese with Sparkling Wine
Are you a cheese lover who enjoys a glass of bubbly? Do you struggle to find the perfect pairing? If so, look no further. Here, we’ll cover everything you need to know about pairing cheese with sparkling wine.
Understanding the Basics of Sparkling Wine
Before diving into the world of pairing cheese with sparkling wine, it’s essential to understand the basics. Sparkling wine is a type of wine that has significant levels of carbon dioxide, making it fizzy. The carbonation can be produced naturally, as in Champagne or through carbon dioxide injection, as in Prosecco. Sparkling wine can range from sweet to dry, and the flavor profile can vary dramatically depending on the grapes used, region, and production method.
Pairing Cheese with Sparkling Wine: The Rule of Thumb
When it comes to pairing cheese with sparkling wine, the rule of thumb is to pair acidic and salty cheese with a dry and crisp sparkling wine. Why? The acidity in the wine cuts through the cheese’s richness, while the carbonation cleanses the palate.
However, some cheeses don’t match well with sparkling wine. For example, blue cheese’s strong flavor can overpower the wine’s subtlety, making it an unideal pairing. Instead, use blue cheese in small amounts to add a zing of flavor to a dish.
Pairing Cheese with Sparkling Wine: Making It Work
Now that you understand the basics let’s explore some of the best cheese and sparkling wine pairings.
Soft Cheeses with Blanc de Blanc
Blanc de Blanc is a dry sparkling wine made with Chardonnay grapes. It is best paired with soft cheeses like brie and camembert. The creaminess of the cheese blends well with the crisp acidity of the wine.
Semi-Hard Cheese with Prosecco
Prosecco is a dry Italian sparkling wine with fruity notes that pairs well with semi-hard cheese like Gouda and Manchego. The wine’s soft bubbles complement the nutty flavor of the cheese.
Hard Cheese with Rose
Rose is a dry sparkling wine with a pink hue. It’s a versatile choice when it comes to cheese pairing, but it is best matched with hard cheeses like aged cheddar and parmesan. The acidity in the wine cuts through the cheese’s sharpness, while the fruity notes provide balance.
Cheese Platter and Champagne
A cheese platter with a variety of cheese types can be a challenge to pair with a single wine. In such cases, Champagne is the go-to option. The bubbles in the Champagne provide a refreshing feeling that cleanses the palate between bites. Additionally, Champagne’s complexity and acidity help it to pair well with a wide variety of cheeses, from soft to hard.
Conclusion
Pairing cheese with sparkling wine is a delicate art that requires the right knowledge and expertise. By following the rule of thumb and experimenting with different combinations, you’ll discover your perfect pairing. Remember, there’s no right or wrong pairing, only personal preference. So, grab some cheese and bubbly and start pairing!
Important Note: It’s important to serve the cheese and sparkling wine at the right temperature. Serve the cheese at room temperature, while the sparkling wine should be served chilled, around 45 degrees Fahrenheit.
Quotes:
“Pairing cheese with sparkling wine is a delicate art that requires the right knowledge and expertise.”
“Remember, there’s no right or wrong pairing, only personal preference.”
Table:
| Type of Cheese | Ideal Sparkling Wine |
| — | — |
| Soft | Blanc de Blanc |
| Semi-Hard | Prosecco |
| Hard | Rose |
| Variety | Champagne |
Further Reading:
If you’re interested in learning more about food and wine pairings, check out this article [link] for a more in-depth discussion.
Happy Tasting!