What Cheese Goes With Sweet Red Wine?

The combination of cheese and wine is a delight to behold. Imagine a warm sunny afternoon on your backyard patio, curled up on a lounge chair with your favorite book, a cheese board with gourmet selections, and a pour of your favorite wine.

But this might beg the question—are you pairing the best cheese with the best sweet red wine? Trust us, the selection you make does matter. Because when you pair the right cheese with the right wine, it is a glorious latest sensation that will have you wanting more—in moderation.

How to Pair Cheese and Wine 

Before we get into the best cheese options with a bottle of sweet red wine, let's first discuss the considerations for the best cheese and wine pairings. Believe it or not, there is both an art and a science to it. Here's what you need to know.

• Flavor Intensity: Match the wine's strength with the cheese's strength. Robust wines go well with strong cheeses, while milder wines pair better with milder cheeses.
• Texture: Think about the texture of how the cheese and wine will feel on your tongue. Creamy cheeses often pair well with wines that have a bit of acidity to cut through the richness.
• Aromas: The aromas of the cheese and wine should complement each other. A wine with fruity notes pairs well with a cheese with similar fruity undertones.
• Sweetness and Saltiness: Sweet wines often pair nicely with salty cheeses. The contrast will bring out the flavors of both.
• Acidity: Wines with higher acidity can balance out richer, fattier cheeses, making the combination simply delectable.
• Personal Preference: Ultimately, your taste should serve as your best guide. Experiment with different combinations to find what you enjoy the most. Knowing what your friends and colleagues might enjoy is not the best combination.

Best Cheeses to Pair with Sweet Red Wine

Now that you know the considerations for the perfect wine and cheese pairings, we'll share our take on five of the best cheeses to pair with your favorite sweet red wine.

1. Creamy Blue Cheese: This version of blue cheese is milder and smoother than traditional blue cheese, making it an excellent match for sweet red wine. The creaminess complements the wine's richness. Pair it with fresh strawberries or a handful of walnuts for a delicious combination. Add a selection of smoked ham to complete your charcuterie board, and you'll have a divine flavor experience.
2. Brie: Brie's soft, creamy texture and mild flavor pair beautifully with sweet red wine. The wine's sweetness highlights the cheese's subtle earthiness. For a perfect pairing, include apple slices or grapes. Thin slices of salami can be added to the mix. Consider baking the brie for a unique spin on this classic favorite in winter.
3. Roquefort: Roquefort is a strong, tangy blue cheese that pairs beautifully with a sweet red wine like Roscato Rosso Dolce. The wine's sweetness balances the cheese's sharpness. Complement this pairing with dried apricots or fresh blackberries. Prosciutto or smoked salmon can also enhance the flavors.
4. Goat Cheese: The tangy and creamy profile pairs wonderfully with sweet red wine. The wine's sweetness tempers the cheese's acidity. Add roasted red peppers or fresh figs to dress up your cheese board. Consider also adding some slices of roasted turkey breast.
5. Gouda: Gouda is a must for any wine pairing. Its nutty and slightly sweet flavor makes it an adaptable pairing for sweet red wine. The wine's sweetness brings out the cheese's caramel notes. Pair it with apple slices or a handful of almonds, and add some slices of cured ham.

Visit The Experts at Krasi

When it comes to pairing wine and cheese, there are oodles of options. By following our recommendations, you'll be sure to find the combination that best suits your tastebuds. But if you need additional guidance for the perfect tasting combination, we have you covered. Visit Krasi in the Back Bay for one of the most extensive wine lists in the region and some delicious pairing options.