Pairing Wine with Cheese: A Beginner's Guide for Your Christmas Dining

As the festive season approaches, the joy of sharing good food and drink with loved ones becomes a key part of our celebrations. 

Wine and cheese, timeless staples of Christmas feasting, are a perfect match for creating a luxurious yet simple dining experience.

But with so many varieties of both, pairing them can feel a little daunting, especially for beginners. 

Fear not—this guide will help you make delicious combinations that will impress your guests and elevate your Christmas table.

Understanding the Basics of Pairing

When it comes to pairing wine with cheese, it’s all about balance. The idea is to match the intensity of flavours and textures, ensuring that neither the wine nor the cheese overpowers the other. Lighter wines typically pair better with delicate cheeses, while more robust wines complement stronger, aged cheeses.

A general rule of thumb is to look for wines and cheeses that originate from the same region. Traditional pairings often stand the test of time because local produce and flavours naturally complement one another. However, don’t be afraid to experiment—part of the fun is discovering your own favourites.

Classic Wine and Cheese Pairings

Brie and Champagne Brie, with its creamy texture and mild flavour, pairs beautifully with a glass of sparkling wine or Champagne. The bubbles and acidity of Champagne cut through the richness of the cheese, creating a harmonious balance on the palate. This is a sophisticated choice for a Christmas appetiser or a casual afternoon gathering.

Goat’s Cheese and Sauvignon Blanc The tangy, slightly earthy flavour of goat’s cheese finds a perfect partner in the crisp, citrusy notes of Sauvignon Blanc. This combination is particularly refreshing and ideal for lighter Christmas starters or as part of a festive cheese board.

Cheddar and Cabernet Sauvignon Aged Cheddar is rich, sharp, and full of flavour, making it a great match for the bold and tannic qualities of Cabernet Sauvignon. The wine’s structure complements the intensity of the cheese, making this pairing an excellent choice for a hearty Christmas meal or for indulging in an evening cheese course.

Blue Cheese and Port For those who enjoy stronger cheeses, blue varieties such as Stilton or Roquefort pair wonderfully with sweet wines like Port. The saltiness and bold flavour of blue cheese are mellowed by the sweetness and richness of the Port, creating a festive and indulgent experience that’s perfect for Christmas.

Parmesan and Chianti Parmesan, though often thought of as a grating cheese, also makes a fabulous pairing with red wine. Its nutty and slightly salty flavour pairs well with Chianti, a medium-bodied Italian red. The acidity in the wine balances the richness of the cheese, making this a great combination to serve alongside Christmas nibbles or during a main course.

Tips for Your Christmas Cheese Board

Mix Textures and Flavours: Aim to offer a variety of cheese types, including soft, semi-soft, and hard cheeses, as well as mild and strong flavours. This will give your guests the chance to experience different pairings and enjoy a more dynamic cheese board.

Serve at the Right Temperature: Cheese should be served at room temperature to allow its full flavour and texture to develop. Take it out of the fridge about 30–60 minutes before serving.

Accompaniments Matter: Complement your cheese and wine pairings with a selection of festive accompaniments such as nuts, fresh fruit, chutneys, and crackers. A drizzle of honey over blue cheese or a handful of walnuts beside your Brie can elevate the experience.

Label Your Cheeses: If you’re hosting a Christmas gathering, label the cheeses on your board so your guests know what they’re tasting. You could also include recommended wine pairings to make it easier for everyone to explore the flavours. Pickled walnuts or caramalised walnuts are awesome with cheese.

Pairing wine with cheese doesn’t need to be complicated—it’s all about balancing flavours and enjoying the experience. Whether you stick to classic combinations or get adventurous with new pairings, the key is to have fun and embrace the festive spirit. This Christmas, elevate your dining experience by curating a beautiful wine and cheese selection, and delight your guests with perfect pairings that will have them raising a glass to your culinary skills.

Cheers to a delicious and merry Christmas!