Cheese and wine are a classic pairing that has been enjoyed for centuries. When it comes to selecting the perfect wine to accompany your favorite cheeses, there are a few guidelines to keep in mind.

I had the privilege of sitting down with Marguerite Merritt, the marketing manager and cheese emissary of Rogue Creamery, a renowned cheese producer in the Rogue Valley. We discussed the art of pairing cheese with wine, and Marguerite shared her insights and expertise on the matter.

First and foremost, Marguerite emphasized that there is no one-size-fits-all approach to pairing wine with cheese. However, she did offer some general recommendations. One versatile option is Champagne or other sparkling wines, which pair beautifully with a wide range of cheeses, from Brie to Blue and everything in between.

When it comes to white wines, Marguerite suggests choosing a medium-bodied wine with a moderately fruity profile. Chenin Blanc, a white Rhône blend, or even an unoaked Chardonnay can complement a variety of cheeses. For red wines, Syrah and Oregon Pinot Noir are both known for their versatility.

In terms of pairing guidelines, Marguerite advises matching wines and cheeses of similar weight and intensity. A strong blue cheese, for example, would not pair well with a delicate Sauvignon Blanc. If you have a cheese with powerful flavors, opt for a wine with more body and fruit. On the other hand, if your cheese is subtle and nuanced, a lighter-bodied wine will be a better fit. Marguerite also highlights that contrasting pairings can be successful. For example, an earthy cheese can be beautifully accompanied by a bright and zesty wine with high acidity.

When it comes to the age-old debate of red versus white wine with cheese, Marguerite encourages an open mind. There are no strict rules, and many cheeses can work well with both types of wines. It ultimately comes down to personal preference and experimentation.

The timing of your cheese and wine pairing can also influence the choice of wine. If you’re enjoying a cheese course before dinner, Marguerite suggests white or sparkling wine as a successful pairing. Conversely, if you’re serving cheese alongside or just before dessert, red or fortified dessert wines might be more appropriate.

Accompaniments can play a significant role in enhancing the wine and cheese pairing experience. Marguerite recommends selecting complementary items that don’t overwhelm the flavors of the cheese. Something sweet, like jam, chocolate, or honey, can counterbalance the salt and bitterness of the cheese. Something salty, such as olives or salted chocolate, can accentuate subtle cheese flavors. Something savory, like salami or pate, can provide a fulfilling and fatty component. Crunchy elements like nuts or crackers add texture, while juicy options like olives or fresh fruit cleanse and refresh the palate. When it comes to selecting crackers, Marguerite advises opting for unflavored varieties or baguettes to avoid flavor clashes with the cheese and wine. The crackers should also be able to cleanse the palate between different cheeses.

Finally, we explored the common refrain that blue cheese is challenging to pair with wine due to its strong flavor. While Marguerite agrees that pairing blue cheese can be trickier compared to more subtle options like Manchego or Swiss, she notes that it’s still possible to find suitable matches. More intensely flavored blues may pose a greater challenge, but milder, cave-aged blues can be paired with complimentary wines.

In conclusion, pairing cheese with wine is an art that requires experimentation and an understanding of flavor profiles. While there are no hard and fast rules, following some general guidelines, like matching weights and intensities, can lead to successful combinations. With the right wine and accompaniments, you can elevate your cheese tasting experience to new heights. So, go ahead and explore the vast world of cheese and wine pairings with confidence and curiosity!

Rogue Creamery’s Oregon Blue, a versatile blue cheese, offers an array of wine pairings that cater to both white and red wine lovers. When it comes to blue cheese, experts have always emphasized the importance of selecting a wine with a touch of sweetness. The reason behind this suggestion lies in the fact that the sugar in the wine helps to balance out the inherent bitterness of the blue cheese.

Personally, I have discovered that a Riesling with a subtle hint of residual sugar makes for an exquisite companion to most blue cheeses. The combination of the slight sweetness in the wine and the bold flavors of the cheese create a harmonious taste experience that is simply delightful. However, if Riesling is not your cup of tea, fret not! There are other captivating options to explore.

Viognier and Chenin Blanc, for instance, can also offer splendid pairings with blue cheese. The smoothness of these white wines complements the creamy texture of the cheese while bringing out its distinct flavors. Furthermore, if you prefer red wines, there are a few selections that can equally captivate your palate.

Syrah, Tempranillo, Merlot, and Zinfandel can all be exceptional red wine choices to accompany blue cheese. These wines possess their own unique characteristics that beautifully intertwine with the rich and tangy flavors of the cheese. The result is a remarkable synergy of tastes that will undoubtedly leave you craving for more.

In conclusion, Rogue Creamery’s Oregon Blue is a cheese that truly opens up a world of possibilities when it comes to wine pairings. Whether you lean towards white or red wines, there are various options to explore and discover what works best for your palate. So step out of your comfort zone and embark on a culinary adventure, as the perfect wine and blue cheese combination might just be waiting to surprise and delight you. Cheers to the art of pairing!