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 smoked cheese.

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 smoked cheese. 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 richness

• Riesling 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.