5 Unconventional Cheese and Sparkling Wine Pairings to Try This Season

Sparkling and cheese is a daring combination that not so many people have tried. And if you are someone who loves wine, the rich pairing of effervescent bubbles with rich dairy feels almost inevitable at any table.

Rather than constantly reaching out for the same staples on special occasions, an exciting dish is one that leaves you wanting more even after the last bite has been savored; it lingers on in memory, as it invites you back for another experience.

This guide will give in-depth details and reviews of some of the best cheese and sparkling wine combos to try out, and as an avid lover of charcuterie boards, this would be something you would love to try out regularly.

#1 Blue Cheese with Demi-Sec Champagne

The first thing that comes to mind when people hear of blue cheese is how salty it can be, especially with the likes of Gorgonzola, Stilton, or Roquefort. Their sharp taste demands a wine that can balance and not hide their bold flavors, which is why Demi-sec Champagne is a good fit.

Compared to other wine varieties, Demi-sec Champagne’s light sweetness softens the sharpness of the cheese, while the bubbles keep your mouth refreshed even after savoring every last bite.
Likewise, flavors of honey, fruit, and baked bread from the Champagne add a nice contrast, turning the cheese’s saltiness into something smooth, a combination that even leaves one wanting more.

Not so many cafes serve fresh dairy products in this unconventional style, but outlets like the Lancaster County creamery are a top choice to try these pairings, as their various options can bring out the best in strong flavors.

#2 Goat’s Cheese with Blanc de Blancs

The citrus flavor of goat cheese paired with Blanc de Blancs Champagne is another combo that leaves your taste buds wanting more. What makes goat cheese more unique is the traditional processing, which is done in batches to preserve its delicate flavor.

In the United States, local farms produce goat cheese in limited batches because the milk usually comes from pasture-raised herds and is handled with care, thereby keeping it naturally fresh and creamy.
This means no two batches taste exactly the same, which is why the acidic taste of Blanc de Blancs makes it even special.

#3 Smoked Cheese with Sparkling Rosé

Smoked cheese has a strong campfire-like scent that makes it more enticing compared to milder cheeses. This scent is attributed to the smoky process, which infuses cheese with woods like oak, thereby complementing the natural creaminess and sharpness of the base cheese.

Many wine lovers often pair smoked cheese with sparkling rosé, considering how its fresh red berries add brightness that cuts through smoke, while acidity prevents heaviness. It also tends to have a touch more body than Brut Champagne, making it sturdy enough to hold its own against bold flavors.

If you are new to wine tasting, smoked cheese with Sparkling Rosé is a perfect combo to start with, as the smoky depth of the cheese is lifted by the lively, fruity character of the wine, making the flavors feel balanced and approachable instead of intense.

#4 Aged Alpine-Style Cheese with Vintage Wines

There’s always a misconception about whether aged alpine-style cheese is any good, especially when it becomes nutty after being left for months. While its delayed processing stages might seem extensive, its caramelized characteristics make it a great pair for vintage wines.

Also, pairing them with Champagne that has spent years aging on lees can be a good way to rest after a long day. Although some vintage wine has quite a high percentage of alcohol, this means you need to be careful when trying to make a choice.

For wine tasters looking to try out something new, two aged products from very different flavors is the sort of pairing that lingers long after the glass is empty.

#5 Soft-Ripened Creamy Cheese with Prosecco

Although coming in last, a soft-ripened creamy cheese with prosecco offers a lighter and more fruity taste, especially since it is often considered lower than other wines, like red wine or some strong spirits, when it comes to alcohol content.

Soft-ripened creamy cheeses are soft and buttery, spreading easily and filling your mouth with creamy richness that makes you instantly crave something refreshing to balance it out. You can never go wrong with this combo, as they are also versatile for picnics, weekend brunches, or even formal dinners.

Endnote

When it comes to pairing cheese and sparkling wine collections, you have to be versatile with the type of appetizer or dessert you want. Most times, stepping beyond familiar choices can unlock flavors that feel both unexpected and inevitable.

Experimentation is part of the pleasure, so whether you are making a wine collection or preparing for a dinner date, always remember that pairing cheese and sparkling wine doesn’t need to follow rigid rules, and it is all about creating harmony, surprise, and enjoyment.