V. Sattui Winery: Wine & Cheese, Please!

Your guide to selecting, sipping, and pairing wine & cheese from our Artisan Deli

Wine and cheese are a few of life’s finest culinary creations, and embarking on the journey of pairing the two together is a tasty endeavor. From the acidity, aromas, textures, and tannins, the possibilities are endless. To take out the guesswork, we consulted our very own wine & food pairing specialist, Marc Golick, to help find the perfect match.

2015 Crow Ridge Zinfandel + Ancient Gouda, Holland

2015 Crow Ridge Zinfandel with Holland’s reputable Ancient Gouda proves that opposites really do attract. Made from whole cow’s milk, this cheese is aged for two or more years, which endows a deep orange color, grainy texture, and bold flavors. These flavors require a stand-up wine to counteract its pleasant yet assertive traits. Sweeping aggressive flavors off the palate, Zinfandel featuring jammy notes and a moderate tannic structure is perfect for the job!

Tip: For a winning combination, add quince paste to the mix to further contrast the salty, dry-aged cheese — you won’t regret it.

2015 Los Carneros Chardonnay + Triple Cream Brie, Marin, CA

Elegant with notes of crisp citrus and warming aromas of fig and honeydew, the 2015 Los Carneros Chardonnay complements the widely loved Triple Cream brie to perfection. With well-balanced oak and fruit components, there is no competition between the creaminess of the wine and cheese – both parties shine through.

2016 Anderson Valley Pinot Noir + Red Hawk, Cowgirl Creamery, CA

I know a wine that’s tough but sweet, it’s so fine it can’t be beat, it’s got everything that I desire, it sets the summer sun on fire, I want candy… Who knew an acidic, fruit-forward Pinot Noir paired with a pungent, aged triple cream Brie could taste like candy! Like a hot knife to butter, the ripe acidity plays well with the high-fat content for an unforgettable pairing.

2013 Morisoli Vineyard Cabernet Sauvignon + Sottocenere al Tartufo, Italy

For a dead-on Cab pairing, look no further than the 2013 Morisoli Cabernet Sauvignon and the traditional Italian cheese, Sottocenere al Tartufo. A semi-soft cheese infused with black truffles, it ties into the distinct ‘dusty’ Rutherford valley floor, earthy notes, and brings forth vibrant red berry flavors. Rich, round, supple, and bursting with everything you’d expect it to, it’s a wine pairing perfect for your next Italian-inspired dinner party.  

1885 Madeira + Stilton Cheese, UK

A “40-proof candy bar,” the 1885 Madeira is a historical curveball when it comes to food and wine pairings. Bursting with flavors reminiscent of crème brûlée, pecan pie, and caramel toffee, it’s an obvious favorite among dessert wines; but let’s take a walk on the wild side. Pair this luscious, wood-aged beauty with a classic Stilton cheese and thank us later. The complex layers of salty and sweet complement the characteristics of this 133-year old Solera and will leave you pleasantly surprised and craving more.

Wine & cheese DIY Pairing Party:

What better way to get a hands-on experience than to throw a wine and cheese pairing party? Head on over to the Artisan Deli and select a few cheeses that catch your eye. Next, discuss your party plans with our on-site pairing specialist — from the proper wine pairing to the correct serving temperature, we’ll help you get your creative juices flowing. The final step, gather a group of friends and start tasting!  

Cheers!