Wine & Cheese

Welcome to Vine to Wine this is your host Linda Moran. We are all aware that Cheese and Wine, seem to be a time honored tradition. On today's program I want to share some of my favorite cheese and wine combinations. Being a huge fan of cheese in general, I find myself feeling a bit tormented having to choose just one. However, no matter what the cheese, do yourself a favor ... take it out of the refrigerator ahead of time and serve it close to room temperature. A favorite cheese of mine is vintage white extra sharp cheddar. This cheese has been aged for at least two years, so it has a distinct flavor that is intensely rich and slightly mouthwatering. As far as white wines go it can definitely be served with a crisp, slightly sweet Riesling and some sliced sweet apples or ripe peaches if they're in season. If you like Chardonnay, then fine a nice creamy slightly oaky chardonnay and serve the cheese and wine with toasted hazelnuts and dried pears. But my favorite combination with this cheddar is a nice crusty loaf of bread and a good Chianti Reserva or a California Zinfandel. Another cheese I enjoy cooking with is gruyere, it melts well and takes au gratin potatoes and quiche to very special places. It is delicious with lighter styles of blended red wines and I enjoy it with Grenache based wines. Remember to send your wine questions to Linda at vine to wine dot net and thank you for joining me on today's Vine to Wine.