Cheddar (UK)
Cheddar is an orange cow cheese from the village of Cheddarin England.
It is a relatively hard and sharp-tastin cheese.
Wine Pairing Cheddar
Malbec
Malbec wines from Argentina or other regions offer ripe plum and dark berry flavors, along with smooth tannins and a velvety texture. A well-balanced Malbec can provide a satisfying contrast to the intensity of aged Cheddar, enhancing its flavors without overpowering them.
Zinfandel
Zinfandel, with its ripe berry flavors, hints of spice, and moderate tannins, can be an excellent pairing choice for aged Cheddar. Look for a Zinfandel with a bold fruit profile and a touch of sweetness to complement the cheese's sharpness.
Craft Beer
While not a wine, certain craft beers can also be fantastic pairings with aged Cheddar cheese.
Look for hoppy IPAs, malty brown ales, or barrel-aged stouts with complex flavor profiles that can complement the cheese's richness and intensity.
Red Wines
Malbec
Its dark fruit notes (blackberry, plum) complement the smoky, salty profile.Syrah (Shiraz)
The spice in a rich Shiraz echoes the smoky, savory notes of the cheese.Cabernet Franc
Its dark cherry and savory minerality stand up well to wood-fired smoke notes.Carménère
Excellent fruity, full-bodied option.Tinta Barroca
Excellent fruity, full-bodied option.Zinfandel
A full-bodied option to stand up to the sharp, smoked flavor.
Dessert Wines
Aged Port
Vintage Port, or a Tawny Port, can be a delightful pairing with Cheddar.
The wine's rich flavors of dried fruits, nuts, and caramel, along with its sweetness and smooth texture, will enhance the nuttiness and savory notes of any cheese.
Sherry Amontillado
Sherry Amontillado is a dry and nutty fortified wine that enhances the nuttiness of Cheddar. Its oxidative notes and complex flavors of almonds, caramel, and dried fruits create a delicious contrast with the cheese.
Madeira
The rich and caramelized flavors of Madeira can complement the nutty and savory notes of aged cheeses, making it a great pairing option.
White Wines
Oaked Chardonnay
The buttery, woody, and complex notes complement the creamy, salty, and intense flavor of smoked cheeses.Marsanne
A savory white that complements the richnessRiesling Spätlese
A slightly off-dry Riesling with vibrant acidity can balance out the strong flavor of a smoked cheese. Look for a German or Alsace Riesling Spätlese with some residual sugar to contrast the cheese's intensity.Rosé:
A fruit-driven rosé can offer a nice contrast to the smoke.
Sparkling Wines
Champagne
A dry Champagne with its toasty notes and lively bubbles can enhance the flavors of smoked cheese and elevate the tasting experience.Prosecco
The bubbles and acidity of Prosecco can cleanse the palate between bites of the cheese, making it a delightful pairing option.Cava
High acidity cuts through the fat.Lambrusco
This slightly sparkling red wine from Emilia-Romagna, Italy, offers a touch of sweetness, bright acidity, and fruity flavors that can balance the richness of smoked cheeses while cleansing the palate.
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