So You’ve Got a… Red Zinfandel

With deep fruit and exotic spice flavors, Red Zinfandel can range from lighter-bodied to fuller-bodied, leading it to compliment a variety of cheeses. 

Lighter-bodied Zins can pair nicely with milder cheeses, such as mild Cheddar and Gouda.  Fuller-bodied Zins can stand up to bolder cheeses, such as aged Gruyere and aged Cheddar.  Because Zinfandel is sweet and fruity, it compliments aged, salty cheeses very well.  Try some Parmigiano-Reggiano, Asiago, or Blue Cheeses with your next bottle of Zin!

The Bottle King and Vineyard Market staffs would love you help you pick out the perfect wine and cheese pairing, so if you’re ever unsure just ask us!

So You’ve Got a… Port Wine

Generally consumed as a dessert wine, Port wines are on the sweet side and come in many different varieties and vintages.  When pairing Port and cheese, you’ll want to be aware of the strength of the flavors in your Port, as well as in your cheese.

A “classic” pairing is Port and Stilton, and generally a go-to around the winter holidays.  Port can actually pair well with many bolder, blue-veined cheeses, so don’t be afraid to try some Gorgonzola or Roquefort as well.  In fact, try out different styles of blue cheese! Pairings can be subjective so you may just find a blue that you absolutely adore with Port.  Some other cheeses that I suggest giving a shot with Port is some bolder Alpine-style cheeses (think Comte), shaper Cheddar (Cabot Clothbound Cheddar), or even a Parmesan.  I recommend trying the last three with an older vintage rather than a newer.

As always, the Bottle King and Vineyard Market staffs are always happy to assist you in finding a pair to your tasting!