Chicago Grazing Boards Part 2: How to Pair White Wine With Cheese, Cured Meats & Accoutrements

Welcome back to the captivating world of pairing meats and cheeses with wine. In this installment, we shift our focus to the enchanting universe of white wines and sparkling wines.

As we journey through Chardonnay, Sauvignon Blanc, Riesling, Pinot Grigio/Pinot Gris, Gewürztraminer, and Chenin Blanc, we’ll explore the symphony of flavors that unfolds when these wines meet carefully selected meats, cheeses, fruits, nuts, carbohydrates, and olives.

Join us as we uncover the exquisite pairings that transform every sip into a harmonious melody of taste and texture.

Pairing Cheeses by type of wine

White Wines

Chardonnay’s versatility is mirrored in its pairings. Creamy Brie and Camembert cheeses highlight the wine’s buttery notes, while smoked turkey and mortadella provide a delicate smokiness.

Apples and pears offer a fresh and crisp element, complementing the wine’s acidity. Cashews and almonds introduce a pleasant crunch, and a baguette with herbed butter adds an indulgent touch. Castelvetrano olives contribute a mild and fruity counterpoint.

Sauvignon Blanc’s zesty character thrives alongside tangy cheeses like goat cheese and Feta, enhancing its herbal and citrusy notes.

Herb-infused ham and speck introduce a savory element that dances with the wine’s vibrant acidity.

Citrus fruits, such as oranges and grapefruits, amplify the wine’s citrus profile, while pine nuts and pistachios provide texture. Olive oil crackers enhance the wine’s herbal undertones, and Cerignola olives deliver a visually striking and subtly briny component.

The sweetness and acidity of Riesling harmonize with blue cheese and Havarti cheeses, creating a delightful contrast.

Turkey sausage and smoked chicken contribute a gentle smokiness that complements the wine’s versatility.

Apricots and peaches emphasize Riesling’s stone fruit notes, while almonds and hazelnuts add depth.

Whole wheat bread complements the wine’s earthiness, and Manzanilla olives offer a delicate and slightly salty touch.

Pinot Grigio’s crispness is elevated by cheeses like mozzarella and ricotta, highlighting its light and zesty profile.

Coppa and mortadella’s mild flavors resonate with the wine’s subtlety. Melon and green apples introduce a refreshing sweetness, while pine nuts and cashews add a buttery and nutty dimension.

Grilled bruschetta offers a warm and toasty element, and Gaeta olives provide a unique color and briny essence.

Munster and Gorgonzola cheeses enhance Gewürztraminer’s aromatic and spicy qualities with their pungent flavors. Turkey bacon and pancetta bring a savory touch that complements the wine’s complexity.

Lychee and mango amplify the wine’s exotic fruit notes, while cashews and macadamia nuts offer a creamy contrast. Sesame crackers provide a delicate backdrop, and Picholine olives lend a hint of herbal and nutty flavor.

Chenin Blanc’s diverse range matches well with creamy Brie and bold Roquefort cheeses. Chicken liver pâté and duck rillettes infuse richness that harmonizes with the wine’s depth.

Green apples and pear slices provide a crisp and fruity balance, while almonds and pecans bring a nutty texture. Whole grain baguette delivers an earthy note, and Lucques olives contribute a mild and delicate essence.

Sparkling Wines

Champagne’s elegance is celebrated with Brie and Camembert cheeses, highlighting its delicate bubbles and flavors.

Champagne-infused pâté and duck prosciutto create a luxurious pairing that resonates with the wine’s sophistication.

Strawberries and raspberries enhance the wine’s fruitiness, while almonds and hazelnuts offer a harmonious nuttiness. Toasted croutons bring a pleasant crunch, and Arbequina olives lend a mild and fruity touch.

Prosecco’s effervescence shines alongside mozzarella and Parmesan cheeses, creating a light and lively duo. Mortadella and bresaola’s subtlety aligns with the wine’s brightness.

Peach slices and apricots add a playful sweetness, while cashews and pistachios contribute a delightful crunch. Breadsticks offer a simple and satisfying carbohydrate, and Castelvetrano olives provide a visually appealing pop of color.

Cava’s Spanish heritage finds harmony with Manchego and blue cheese, mirroring its vibrant and elegant qualities.

Chorizo and Jamón serrano introduce a bold and savory contrast that complements the wine’s character. Citrus segments and figs add a refreshing and sweet note, while Marcona almonds and walnuts create a luscious texture.

Olive tapenade on crackers amplifies the wine’s Mediterranean essence, and Gordal olives offer a plump and mild brininess.

The delicate nature of sparkling rosé is celebrated with goat cheese and Gruyère, enhancing its blush hue and refined flavors.

Prosciutto and smoked salmon bring an indulgent touch that resonates with the wine’s elegance.

Berries like strawberries and raspberries accentuate the wine’s fruity profile, while almonds and pistachios provide a satisfying crunch.

Pita chips offer a playful and crunchy carbohydrate, and Ligurian olives infuse a mild and fruity element.

As we conclude our exploration of red wine pairings and how they can be utilized in pairing your favorite grazing board items, we’re reminded of the incredible diversity and depth that charcuterie boards and charcuterie board catering bring to the table. Furthermore, from the bold and structured Cabernet Sauvignon to the soft elegance of Merlot and the nuanced character of Pinot Noir, each variety has found its perfect match in a symphony of meats, cheeses, fruits, nuts, carbohydrates, and olives.

Importantly, the art of pairing is not just a practice but a journey of discovery, where flavors not only intertwine but also elevate the tasting experience. Whether you’re indulging in a relaxed evening with friends or celebrating a special occasion, the harmonious union of red wines and thoughtfully curated charcuterie boards, along with charcuterie board catering, will undoubtedly leave an indelible impression.

As you embark on your own culinary explorations inspired by our red wine pairings, remember that crafting the perfect charcuterie board is an art that requires careful consideration and a touch of creativity.

Additionally, if you’re envisioning a memorable gathering where the harmonious fusion of meats, cheeses, fruits, nuts, carbohydrates, and olives takes center stage, our team is here to assist with charcuterie board catering. Furthermore, whether it’s an intimate dinner or a grand celebration, don’t hesitate to reach out to our dedicated booking team.

Consequently, allow us to curate an exquisite charcuterie board, complemented by charcuterie board catering, that complements your chosen red wines, thereby creating an experience that lingers in the memories of your guests.