Your Handy Guide to Pairing Cheese and Wine Like a Pro

Wine and cheese
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Nothing says you have your life together quite like knowing which wine pairs with which cheese. The classic combination has been around for centuries and practically screams class—although in a very subtle, elegant way. So, even if you recently wrote off your car and can’t manage to get more than four hours of sleep a night, you can at least fake adulting with this guide.

Merlot

A rich, full-bodied merlot can handle strong flavors like pungent Gorgonzola, creamy Camembert, and Brie, as well as sharp Cheddar.

Sauvignon Blanc

An extremely versatile white wine that can be paired with cheeses of varying strength. Let the crisp liquid compliment smooth cheeses like Goat and Gouda, or offset sharper flavors from Asiago and Gruyere.

Pinot Noir

Much like Merlot, Pinot Noirs can be fairly heavy. Their fruity aftertaste works well with cheeses like Feta and Port Salut which are both known to be salty, yet subtle.

Riesling

A fruity, light wine such as a Riesling deserves to be accompanied by something which enhances its freshness. Think of creamy cheeses like Brie and Gouda, but don’t be afraid to get adventurous by trying a Blue cheese as well.