Aged to Perfection: The Art of Pairing Wine & Cheese

Inspired food and wine pairings are indisputably one of life’s simplest pleasures. Whether you're a seasoned cheese lover or a casual enthusiast, knowing which wine to pair with that perfect hunk of cheese (or slice, for the more civilized!) is sure to take your snack-time ritual to new heights.

From a wedge of savoury cheddar to a piquant blue cheese or an oozing washed rind, this delicious food group has the unique ability to bring out the very best in a well-chosen wine. Here’s a guide to help you master the art of pairing and let your glass run over. 

Pairing wine and cheese is all about balance and harmony. 

Here are a few key tips to keep in mind: 

1. Match Intensity: Pair mild cheeses with lighter wines and strong cheeses with more robust wines
2. Consider Texture: Creamy cheeses pair well with wines that have good acidity to cut through the richness 
3. Complement or Contrast: Find flavours that complement each other, or create an exciting contrast
4. Regional Pairing: Wines and cheeses from the same region often make excellent partners due to their shared terroir. 

Just as no two Pinots are the same, when it comes to the art of cheese it’s important to know your Brie from your blue. Discover our favourite pairings for year-round enjoyment.

Cheddar and Tamar Ridge Reserve Pinot Noir 

Why It Works: Cheddar, with its rich, sharp, and sometimes nutty flavour, pairs well with the full-bodied, tannic structure of a Cabernet Sauvignon, or the delicate fruitiness of a Tasmanian Pinot Noir. The wine's red berry notes and subtle earthiness enhance the cheddar's complexity without overpowering it, and the tannins help to cleanse the palate between bites.  

Tasting Tip: For the best tasting experience, choose a mature cheddar and serve it at room temperature. Sip your Pinot between bites to cleanse your palate and reveal new layers of flavour. 

Washed Rind Cheese and Tamar Ridge Estate Pinot Noir 

Why It Works: Washed rind cheeses like Époisses or Taleggio, known for their pungent aroma and creamy texture, pair well with a wine that has enough acidity and fruitiness to balance their bold flavours. Try a crisp Riesling or a young Pinot Noir with vibrant acidity and hints of cherry for a refreshing counterpoint.

Tasting Tip: Allow the washed rind cheese to warm slightly to enhance its creamy texture. Pair with a slightly chilled glass of Pinot Noir to create a delightful contrast between the robust cheese and the elegant wine. 

Blue Cheese and Tamar Ridge Research Series Pinot Noir 

Why It Works: Blue cheese is often described as intense, salty, and bold. With their marbled blue veins, popular varieties like Stilton and Roquefort are creamy and rich: a stalwart of any cheese board requiring a wine that matches their finesse and strength. The sweetness of a Noble Riesling or aged Tawny Port can balance the saltiness of a blue perfectly, or a premium Pinot Noir and Syrah blend with its earthy undertones and refined tannins. 

Tasting Tip: Plate up your favourite blue with a touch of honey or dried fruit to add sweetness, enhancing the pairing with the wine’s fruity notes. 

Goat Cheese and Tamar Ridge Estate Pinot Noir 

Why It Works: Goat cheese is tangy, creamy, and slightly tart, making it a great match for the citrus-imbued flavours of a cool-climate Sauvignon Blanc, or the savoury, aromatic bouquet of a Pinot Noir. Each of these wines offers a subtle earthiness that complements the fresh, grassy characteristics of a classic goat cheese.  

Tasting Tip: Spread a generous amount of goat cheese on a fresh baguette, and top with crispy pancetta or oven baked figs. The perfect toast topper that goes hand in hand with a Tassie Pinot Noir. 

Camembert/Brie and Tamar Ridge Single Block Pinot Noir 

Why It Works: Chardonnay is a classic wine pair for the similarly creamy, buttery textures of camembert and brie, but when the weather cools down, we can’t help but reach for something a little more robust. Enter, Pinot Noir with its delicate structure and vibrant, fruit driven acidity that cuts through the richness and perfectly complements the cheese's mild, umani flavours.  

Tasting Tip: Enjoy these soft cheeses at room temperature with a slightly cooler glass of Pinot Noir. Add some fig jam or fresh berries for an extra layer of flavour.