The Best Cheese and Wine Pairings for those Participating in a Mature (not dry) January

There’s 7 days left of January, which means two things: you’re either on the home straight ready and waiting for a crisp glass of Vino…or it’s just another day because Dry January never works out anyway. 

Either way, we have prepared our comprehensive guide to your perfect pairings. When it comes to indulgent experiences, few things rival the harmony of cheese and wine. The combination of flavors, textures, and aromas creates a sensory delight that can elevate any gathering or quiet evening at home. This is how we at Great British Trading would pair wine that complements the distinct characteristics of our cheese.

Extra Mature Cheddar & Cabernet Sauvignon

Extra mature cheddar is creamy, smooth and loved for its strong, lingering and memorable depth of flavour. Its bold profile calls for a wine that can stand up to its intensity, and Cabernet Sauvignon is the perfect match. The wine’s full-bodied richness, notes of dark fruit (like blackcurrant and plum), and structured tannins create a balanced contrast to the cheddar’s sharpness. The tannins also cut through the creaminess of the cheese, cleansing your palate for the next bite.

Cornish Yarg & Sauvignon Blanc

Cornish Yarg has a fresh, clean taste and slightly crumbly. It is wrapped in nettles to give its distinct flavour and unique yet subtle taste. The nettle leaves are brushed onto the cheese and as the cheese matures, the edible wrap develops its unique white appearance. A crisp Sauvignon Blanc beautifully highlights these qualities. The wine’s zesty acidity and notes of lime, gooseberry, and green apple enhance the cheese’s refreshing character, while its herbal undertones echo the nettle wrapping. Together, they create a light and harmonious pairing that’s perfect for a summer evening.

Smoked Mature Cheddar & Malbec

Snowdonia Mature Cheddar is naturally smoked over beechwood chips, with sweet, smoky notes to provide a mellow depth and warmth. The smoky flavours in this cheese are strong without being overpowering. Pairing this cheese with a Malbec creates a symphony of bold flavours. Malbec’s dark fruit notes—blackberry, blueberry, and plum—complement the cheese’s savory profile, while its soft tannins and hints of spice mirror the smokiness. This duo is an excellent choice for those who enjoy complex and hearty flavour combinations.

Truffle Cheese & Chardonnay

Snowdonia’s Truffle cheese exudes luxury with its rich and umami-laden flavors. Encased in pure white wax, the cheese has a distinctive earthy aroma and a perfectly balanced flavour, with undertones of wild mushroom and hazelnut leading to notes of garlic. A lightly oaked Chardonnay pairs wonderfully, offering a creamy texture and flavors of ripe apple, pear, and a hint of vanilla. The wine’s subtle oakiness mirrors the depth of the truffle while its acidity cuts through the richness of the cheese, creating a decadent yet balanced experience. This pairing is an indulgence perfect for special occasions.

Chilli Cheese & Riesling

Snowdonia’s Chilli cheese, with its spicy kick, needs a wine that can complement the heat without overwhelming the palate. The rich savouriness of Red Leicester is given a fiery kick by our secret blend of Habanero chillies, peppers and spices. A slightly off-dry Riesling is the ideal choice. Its touch of sweetness balances the spiciness of the cheese, while its bright acidity and flavors of citrus and stone fruits refresh the palate. This pairing offers a dynamic contrast, ensuring the heat is tempered but the flavor remains vibrant.

Tips for Perfect Pairings

• Balance Intensity: Match the strength of the cheese with the boldness of the wine.

• Complement or Contrast: Choose a wine that either complements the cheese’s flavors or provides a contrasting profile for a dynamic pairing.

• Consider Texture: Pair creamy cheeses with wines that have good acidity to cut through the richness.

With these pairings, you’re sure to impress your guests or enjoy a memorable moment of indulgence. Whether you’re a wine connoisseur or a cheese enthusiast, these combinations celebrate the best of both worlds. You can shop all mentioned British Cheeses as well as our full range here. Happy Pairing.