Cheese And Wine – A Classical Amalgamation
Peeping into history, one finds a perfect match of cheese and wine, walking hand in glove, down the aisle. Odyssey reflects this! However, the methods of formulation is standard, the final produce embraces myriad varieties.
Wonder how the pairing takes place? It is because of the fast affinity between cheese and wine, as both are natural, fermented products requiring patience and care to age well, and a moderate temperature to mature naturally.
With a slight idea and loads of enthusiasm to experiment, you too can excel in the endeavor. Though you are free to explore, these guidelines may lead you to a favorable outcome.
Some combinations that are naturally pleasing include:
Fresh cheese with fresh light, crisp white wines like Sauvignon, Loire whites, Chenin Blanc, Frascati or Soave.
Soft cheese that is slightly salty or mild is good with slightly sweet wine, whereas those with rich, sweet and creamy texture blend well with fruity wines such as Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir and Chardonnay.
Semi-soft cheeses are better to be with full bodied gusty whites or light fruity reds, such as Chianti, Rioja or Merlot.
Hard cheeses, which are mild, blend well with fruity reds like Merlot and those which are medium go with Cotes du Rhone and Cabernet Sauvignon. Hard cheeses that are strong are well paired with Shiraz and Cabernet Sauvignon also and the last type of hard cheese being extra strong taste good with Port wines and Madeira.
Blue cheese, which is mild, can be coupled with Fruity whites or Rose wines like Vouvray or Chenin Blanc. Piquant blue cheeses when paired with Cotes du Rhone or Shiraz are more pleasing. Roquefort variety of blue cheese taste better with Sauternes and Stilton varieties are best with Port wines.
Health Benefits of Cheese and Wine
One or two pieces of cheese make a world of difference in taste and this amount should satiate for a healthy lifestyle. Organic and Natural varieties of cheese are excellent sources of calcium and protein.
The health benefits of wine are bountiful. According to the American Health Association, wine when consumed four to eight ounces a day, makes a positive difference to health. Wine promotes longevity by reducing the risk of heart attack, heart disease, type 2 diabetes, stroke, cutting risk of cataracts, colon cancers and slowing brain decline.
As it says,“Cheese, wine and a friend must be old to be good”.
