W3 Wine School

Parmigiano Reggiano (Italy)

Parmigiano Reggiano is an Italian Cow Cheese.

It is the most popular cheese in Italy, and also one of the world's top Connoisseurs cheeses.

Parmigiano is perfect grated over Pasta, Salads, and Soups and is also good Alone.

Parmesan Reggiano

Wine Pairing

The bubbles of Prosecco will cut through the saltiness of a Parmigiano.

Our favorite Red pairing is Chianti or a bubbly Lambrusco.

Here are some excellent wine pairings to complement the flavors of Parmesan:


Red Wines

Aged cheeses pair best with bold red wines.

The fat content in aged cheeses do well to counteract the tannins in these wines.


Barolo

This robust red wine from the Piemonte region in Italy, has intense flavors of cherry, leather, and earthiness. Barolo wines are full-bodied with strong acidity and high tannins that complement the richness and sharpness Parmesan.

Barbaresco

Made from Nebbiolo grapes in the Piemonte region, Barbaresco is a complex and structured red wine with floral, fruity, and earthy notes. Its acidity and tannins can enhance the nutty and savory flavors of Parmesan.

Brunello di Montalcino

Brunello di Montalcino is another excellent choice for Parmesan. It is a bold and elegant red wine with flavors of dark berries, herbs, and earthiness. Its firm tannins and acidity complements the flavors of cheeses like Parmesan.

Chianti Classico Riserva

Chianti Classico Riserva is a well-balanced red wine with flavors of tart cherry, earth, and herbs. Its acidity and medium body make it a versatile pairing option for a variety of aged cheeses.

Amarone della Valpolicella

Amarone is a powerful and full-bodied red wine from the Veneto region. Its rich and complex flavors of dried fruits, chocolate, and spices can stand up to the intensity of Parmesan, creating a harmonious pairing.

Cabernet Sauvignon

A full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon with its rich dark fruit flavors, firm tannins, and hints of spice can provide a bold complement to Parmesan.

The wine's structure and intensity can balance the cheese's creamy texture and enhance its nutty undertones.

Syrah/Shiraz

A bold and fruity Syrah/Shiraz can be a delicious pairing with Parmesan.

The wine's dark fruit flavors, spicy notes, and firm tannins complements the cheese's robust flavors.


White Wines


Soave Classico

This dry white wine from the Veneto region is made primarily from Garganega grapes. Its crisp acidity and floral notes can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of Parmesan.

Gewürztraminer

Gewürztraminer, with its aromatic profile of lychee, rose petals, and spice, can pair nicely with Parmesan. Its floral and slightly sweet notes can enhance the cheese's flavor while providing a refreshing contrast.

Oaked Chardonnay

A full-bodied oaked Chardonnay is a match made in heaven with an aged cheese like Parmesan. Its moderate acidity and citrus notes let the flavors of the cheese shine without becoming overpowering. The finish of Parmesan wraps it in a sweet balance with the oaky, buttery elements of an oaked Chardonnay.


Sparkling Wines


Franciacorta

This Italian sparkling wine, made in the traditional method, offers crisp acidity and elegant bubbles, making it a refreshing and palate-cleansing pairing for Parmesan.

Prosecco

With its lively bubbles and flavors of green apple and citrus, Prosecco can provide a delightful contrast to the richness of Parmesan.

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 Parmesan while cleansing the palate.


Dessert Wines


Vin Santo

Vin Santo is a sweet dessert wine from Tuscany, often made from dried grapes. Its honeyed flavors and nutty undertones can pair beautifully with Parmesan, particularly when served as a dessert pairing.

Marsala

Marsala is a fortified wine from Sicily with flavors of dried fruits, nuts, and caramel. Its sweetness and richness can complement the nuttiness of Parmesan, making it a delightful pairing.

Aged Port

Aged Port, a Tawny or Ruby, can be a delightful pairing with Parmesan.

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

Dry or sweet varieties of Sherry, such as Amontillado or Oloroso, can pair well with aged cheeses due to their complex nutty flavors and oxidative notes, which harmonize with the cheese's characteristics.

Personal Preferences

As always, personal preferences play a significant role in wine and cheese pairings, so don't hesitate to experiment to find the combination that suits your taste buds best.

Additionally, consider adding some accompaniments like fruit, nuts, or bread to enhance the pairing experience:

Wine and Cheese

Enjoy your wine and cheese tasting with fruits nuts and bread!


Grows Together Goes Together

If it grows together it goes together.

Pairing locally is a great way to learn more about wine and cheese:

France

Italy

Spain

Clara Peeters Still Life

Clara Peeters - Still Life with Cheeses, Almonds and Pretzels- 1615


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