A lot of time is spent crafting the perfect wine pairing for Valentine’s Day dinner, and for good reason as the right wine can take an average meal to a whole new level. But what about before the meal? A wine and cheese appetizer is an excellent way to set the mood for a classy evening.
As purveyors of fine wines and gourmet cheese, we might have some ideas to help get you started!
Wine & Cheese Pairings
Moscato D’Asti + Gorgonzola
Funkier cheeses call for a sweeter wine, and the fresh, acidic fruit of a Moscato d’Asti cleans your mouth of heavier cheeses like Gorgonzola, leaving your palate nice and refreshed.
Sangiovese + Grana Padano
The salty and savory flavors of Grana Padano cheese match the fruity and herbaceous profile of Sangiovese. Try it with sea salt crackers for an enhanced experience.
Bubbles + Brie
The high acid and pleasantly stinging bubbles of Champagne combine with Brie’s thick creaminess in a contrast that is very satisfying. Plus, that brioche flavor you get in traditional method sparklers adds a tasty bit of toastiness.
Sauvignon Blanc + Goat Cheese
The citrus and mineral notes found in a Sauvignon Blanc bring out the wonderful nutty and herbal flavors that can be found in the goat cheese.
Port + Stilton
The complex character of a pungent and salty Blue Stilton matches up beautifully with an older, sweeter Port. Remember: the sweeter the wine, the stinkier the cheese.
Riesling + Raclette
Smooth and buttery, Raclette is a mellow and versatile cheese that blends really well with the high acidity and stone fruit flavors found in a Riesling.
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