National Wine and Cheese Day

Pairing aged vino with savory nibbles creates an exquisite duet of flavors that tantalizes the palate and ignites conversations.

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Drive July sales and tasting events by positioning wine-and-cheese pairings as an accessible, science-backed culinary experience for home entertaining and gifting.

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The Science of Pairing: Why Wine & Cheese Are a Perfect Match (infographic)
Host the Ultimate Wine & Cheese Night: Curated Pairing Kits & Recipes
Summer Entertaining Made Easy: Wine & Cheese Boards for Every Budget
Influencer Tasting Challenge: Tag Your Best Wine & Cheese Combo

History

There is an interesting element to all of the pairings mentioned in the introduction, with the possible exception of chocolate and peanut butter.

Pairings of food almost universally involve pairing an astringent food, like wine, with a fatty food like cheese. The reason isn’t just incidental, but in fact is one of the secrets of culinary science that’s used in creating truly delectable meals.

Astringent foods have a tendency to bind with the elements in saliva that lubricate and cause them to clump and lose their ability to lubricate.

This tends to leave us with a puckered mouth and nobody loves that! Even worse, the more you consume astringent foods the drier they make your mouth! While we all agree that wine and tea are both delicious, no one wants a puckered mouth!

This is where the cheese comes in with its fatty texture and often pungent flavors. Each bite tends to coat our mouths just a little more making it lubricated with fat, often to the point of being slimy! We love the flavors, but the constant build up of flavor can often be overwhelming, and that’s when wine comes to the rescue!

Wine And Cheese Day celebrates this pairing of foods and the ways they interact to make each one even more enjoyable!

FAQ

Did cheese once serve as a status symbol in history?

Yes, in medieval Europe, certain cheeses like Parmesan were considered luxury items. These cheeses were often gifted to royalty or used as a form of currency in trade. Their long shelf life and labor-intensive production made them symbols of wealth.

Why do sommeliers recommend sparkling wine with soft cheeses?

Sparkling wines, like Champagne, cleanse the palate with their bubbles and acidity. This balance cuts through the creaminess of cheeses like Brie or Camembert. The combination enhances both the wine’s crispness and the cheese’s richness.

What are some unexpected cheese-based desserts paired with wine?

Cheese is increasingly featured in desserts, such as blue cheese ice cream paired with sweet Port wine. This unlikely pairing balances savory, salty, and sweet notes. It’s gaining popularity in gourmet restaurants and culinary festivals worldwide.

Are there wine and cheese pairings for spicy cuisines?

Yes, mild cheeses like Gouda or Havarti pair well with off-dry Rieslings or Gewürztraminers. These wines’ slight sweetness complements spicy foods like Indian curries, creating a balanced and flavorful experience.

What role did monasteries play in pairing wine and cheese?

Medieval monasteries produced both wine and cheese as staples of their diets. Over centuries, they refined techniques that ensured these two items complemented each other. Monks even developed many iconic cheeses, like Gruyère and Roquefort.

How do wine and cheese traditions differ between continents?

In Europe, pairings often reflect regional origins, such as French Brie with Burgundy wine. Meanwhile, in the U.S., creativity dominates, with international cheeses and wines combined. Asian cultures also incorporate local rice wines with cheeses like creamy goat’s cheese.

What’s the science behind the perfect pairing?

Scientific studies show that cheese’s fat content mellows wine’s tannins. This balance makes wine taste smoother and enhances its fruity flavors. It explains why astringent red wines often pair well with aged, hard cheeses.

What’s an unusual wine and cheese pairing trend?

Pairing wine with vegan cheeses has grown in popularity. Nut-based cheeses, such as cashew Brie, pair wonderfully with crisp whites like Sauvignon Blanc. These combinations appeal to plant-based eaters and adventurous food lovers alike.

How do seasonal celebrations incorporate wine and cheese?

Winter holidays often highlight mulled wines with robust cheeses like aged Cheddar. In contrast, summer picnics favor light whites or rosés paired with fresh goat cheese or Mozzarella. These traditions evolve with seasonal flavors and local produce.

What’s the oddest wine and cheese superstition?

In parts of Italy, some believed that eating cheese without wine could bring bad luck. Wine was thought to aid digestion and counteract the “heavy” nature of cheese. While the superstition has faded, the pairing remains beloved.