In this infographic we share 15 cheese and wine pairings you must try.

Here’s what makes the list:

  • Port and bleu cheese
  • Prosecco and parmesan
  • Sauternes and fondue
  • Cabernet Sauvignon and aged gouda
  • Chardonnay and gruyere
  • Rioja and Manchego
  • Riesling and ricotta
  • Malbec and aged cheddar
  • Gewurztraminer and morbier
  • Pinot Noir and brie
  • Beaujolais and feta
  • Viognier and Jarlsberg
  • Monterey Jack and merlot
  • Mozzarella and pinot grigiot
  • Sauvignon Blanc and goats cheese

Check out the infographic for more information.

 

Cheese and wine are a match made in culinary heaven. When paired correctly, the flavours enhance each other, creating a tasting experience that’s greater than the sum of its parts. But with so many varieties out there, it can be hard to know where to start.

This guide features 15 delicious pairings that you’ll want to try at your next dinner party or cosy night in.

Brie & Chardonnay

Brie is known for its creamy texture and subtle earthy flavour, while Chardonnay offers buttery richness and light oak undertones. Together, they create a smooth and indulgent combination. This pairing is ideal for those who enjoy mild cheeses and elegant white wines. It’s a crowd-pleaser that’s hard to resist.

  • Choose a lightly oaked Chardonnay to enhance Brie’s creaminess without overpowering it.
  • Serve at room temperature to allow the cheese and wine to express their full flavour.
  • Add a slice of apple or pear for a hint of sweetness.
  • Try with a French Brie and a Burgundy Chardonnay for a classic match.

Provolone & Prosecco

Provolone’s mild yet slightly tangy flavour pairs beautifully with the light sparkle of Prosecco. This is a bright and balanced duo that works well as an appetiser or party snack. The bubbles help cleanse the palate, making each bite feel fresh. It’s a great way to start any gathering.

  • Opt for a young, semi-soft Provolone rather than the aged variety.
  • Chill your Prosecco to keep the pairing light and refreshing.
  • Add some cured meats or olives to your cheese board.
  • Perfect for picnics or garden parties thanks to its lively character.

Sartori Bellavitano & Lambrusco

Sartori Bellavitano is a cheese with a unique flavour—nutty, fruity, and sometimes even wine-soaked. Lambrusco, with its sweet and fizzy profile, makes a fun and flavour-packed match. The pairing strikes a perfect balance between richness and brightness. Great for those looking to explore new and bold flavour combinations.

  • Choose a sweet or semi-sweet Lambrusco to highlight Bellavitano’s fruitiness.
  • Let the cheese come to room temperature before serving.
  • Try a Bellavitano that has been soaked in wine for extra harmony.
  • Serve with figs or dark chocolate for a decadent twist.

Gouda & Cabernet Sauvignon

Aged Gouda has a caramel-like depth that matches beautifully with the bold tannins of Cabernet Sauvignon. This is a rich and savoury pairing, ideal for cooler evenings or dinner with friends. The wine’s structure helps cut through the cheese’s creamy texture. It’s a robust match that cheese and red wine lovers will adore.

  • Choose a Gouda aged 12 months or more for maximum flavour.
  • Decant your Cabernet Sauvignon to soften the tannins.
  • Serve with crusty bread or walnut crackers.
  • A perfect pairing for steak nights or hearty meals.

Emmental & Gruyère with Chardonnay

Swiss-style cheeses like Emmental and Gruyère are known for their nutty, savoury characteristics. Pairing them with Chardonnay creates a smooth and balanced flavour profile. The wine’s acidity lifts the richness of the cheese without overwhelming it. Ideal for cheese fondue or a relaxed evening platter.

  • Use a fruit-forward Chardonnay for better contrast.
  • Combine both Emmental and Gruyère for depth and variety.
  • Pair with apples, grapes or dried apricots.
  • Try with a Swiss Chardonnay for regional harmony.

Havarti & Chardonnay

Mild and creamy, Havarti is a Danish cheese that melts beautifully and pairs effortlessly with a smooth Chardonnay. This duo is mellow, comforting, and easy to enjoy for beginners and connoisseurs alike. The wine’s rounded texture enhances the buttery notes in the cheese. It’s a lovely match for casual settings.

  • Choose a creamy, unoaked Chardonnay to keep things balanced.
  • Enjoy with a slice of sourdough or a light cracker.
  • Try dill Havarti for a slightly herby twist.
  • Best served slightly chilled for a fresh flavour experience.

Bocconcini & Rosé

Light, milky Bocconcini is a fresh mozzarella-style cheese that pairs wonderfully with crisp, dry Rosé. This pairing is refreshing, clean, and perfect for summer. The wine’s acidity brightens the cheese, while the fruit notes add extra charm. A lovely choice for salads, starters, or a lazy afternoon.

  • Pair with a dry Rosé to avoid overpowering the cheese.
  • Serve with cherry tomatoes and fresh basil for a Caprese vibe.
  • Keep both wine and cheese nicely chilled.
  • A great option for light lunches or brunches.

White Cheddar & Viognier

Sharp and tangy White Cheddar deserves a wine that can stand up to its boldness—Viognier is just the match. With its floral aroma and full-bodied structure, Viognier complements Cheddar’s depth and bite. This combination feels indulgent but balanced. A fantastic option for evening grazing boards.

  • Choose an aged White Cheddar for maximum impact.
  • Look for Viognier with a touch of oak for a creamier finish.
  • Add dried apricots or almonds to complete the board.
  • Serve at room temperature for best results.

Cave-Aged Blue Cheese & Port

Cave-aged blue cheeses are rich, salty, and full of character. Sweet Port wine provides the perfect contrast, balancing the intensity with smooth, fruity sweetness. This classic pairing is bold and luxurious. A must-try for those who love strong flavours and indulgent treats.

  • Opt for a vintage or tawny Port for a smooth finish.
  • Serve the cheese slightly softened for a richer mouthfeel.
  • Add walnuts or honey for extra dimension.
  • A brilliant finale to any dinner party.

Fontina & Rioja

Fontina is a semi-soft cheese with a nutty, earthy taste that works beautifully with the spicy, structured profile of Rioja. The wine’s oak and berry notes bring out the cheese’s depth. This pairing feels rustic and full of character. Perfect for cooler weather or tapas-style dining.

  • Choose a young Rioja (Crianza) for a brighter flavour.
  • Melt Fontina into baked dishes for a cosy pairing.
  • Add roasted red peppers or olives to the board.
  • Works well with cured meats and rustic bread.

Roquefort & Tokaji

Roquefort is a blue cheese with a powerful salty bite, and Tokaji is a Hungarian dessert wine known for its golden sweetness. Together, they create a contrast that’s both striking and delicious. Sweet and savoury collide in a truly gourmet experience. Ideal for those who love to explore bold flavour pairings.

  • Choose a 5 or 6 puttonyos Tokaji for balanced sweetness.
  • Pair with slices of poached pear or fresh fig.
  • Let the cheese warm slightly before serving.
  • A stunning choice for dessert boards.

Gruyère & Riesling

Gruyère’s nutty complexity finds a bright partner in Riesling’s crisp acidity and citrus notes. This pairing is refined yet approachable, making it ideal for both casual and formal occasions. It’s a match that allows both the cheese and the wine to shine. Excellent for entertaining.

  • Opt for a dry or off-dry Riesling depending on preference.
  • Include some charcuterie for variety and texture.
  • Best enjoyed at room temperature.
  • Great with apple slices or pickled onions.

Mimolette & Merlot

Mimolette is a hard, aged cheese with a striking orange colour and nutty, caramelised flavour. Merlot’s soft tannins and fruity profile help round out the cheese’s intensity. The result is a warm, mellow pairing with real charm. A cosy choice for winter nights.

  • Select a well-aged Mimolette for depth.
  • Pair with a medium-bodied Merlot for balance.
  • Add dried cranberries or dark chocolate to your board.
  • Serve with a crusty baguette for a French-style spread.

Ricotta & Pinot Grigio

Fresh Ricotta is light, fluffy, and delicately creamy—just right for the crisp, citrusy character of Pinot Grigio. This pairing feels clean and invigorating, great for hot days or light appetites. The subtle flavours work in perfect harmony. It’s simple but oh-so-satisfying.

  • Choose a dry, mineral-rich Pinot Grigio.
  • Serve Ricotta on crostini with lemon zest.
  • Keep both wine and cheese cool for best results.
  • Ideal as a starter or palate cleanser.

Sauvignon Blanc & Goat Cheese

This is one of the most well-loved cheese and wine pairings for good reason. The tangy, fresh acidity of goat cheese matches effortlessly with the grassy, citrus notes of Sauvignon Blanc. It’s a zippy and flavourful combo that always delivers. A fantastic option for spring and summer.

  • Go for a Loire Valley Sauvignon Blanc for a classic French pairing.
  • Serve goat cheese with herbs or honey for extra variety.
  • Pair with fresh baguette and crisp vegetables.
  • Great for salads, snacks, or aperitifs.

Ready to Pair Like a Pro?

Cheese and wine pairing doesn’t have to be complicated—it’s all about balance, contrast, and complementing flavours. Whether you’re planning a tasting evening or simply enjoying a quiet night in, these 15 combinations are sure to impress.

Try them out and discover your favourites. There’s a whole world of flavour waiting for you.