Wine Pairing 101: Wines to Pair with Mild Cheddar Cheese

In general, Mild Cheddar is a type of cheddar that has not been aged extensively – matured for only 3 to 6 months. Due to this process, it has a very mild and creamy flavor; which could be a little tricky to pair with wines since these flavors are overpowered easily. Therefore, only light wines will be more or less, compatible with mild cheddar.

Consumers who are not used to mild cheese might generalize this type of Cheddar to be bland. Personally, I find this most untrue. In fact, if savoring good quality mild cheddar, one could actually hint a very subtle nutty flavour in it; which bears similarities to macadamia nuts.

Although this type of cheese works only with certain types of wines, this should not restrict one’s imagination. In reality, the vast selection of wines available in the market today is more than enough to give you the right combination you prefer. Below are some descriptions of a few wines that pair well with mild cheddar and can serve as a guide to start with.

Chardonnay’s aroma is distinct, yet delicate. It is difficult to exemplify but easy to recognize. It often smells fruity like apples, lemons, peaches or sometimes, tropical fruits. The flavor is neutral, but native to this type of wine. It is one of the best selling wines around, so acquiring one is not so difficult. American Chardonnay from California or New York can be considered since it tastes as good as the French variants. For this cheese, unwooded chardonnay is ideal so as not to overpower the mildness of the cheddar.

Pinot Blanc is a medium-dry to dry white wine originating from the Alsace region of France. It is less aromatic than other white wines found in Alsace however, it does emphasize some fruity aromas, often of apples and oranges; though sometimes, floral characteristics. It is also acidic, which helps bring out the flavors of the cheese.

Pinot Gris wine is a dry, crisp white wine often high in acidity and low in tannins. It has a spicy richness to it and is usually delicately fragrant and mildly floral with lightly lemon-citrus flavors. Even with all these defining characteristics, this wine can stand up to this cheese without introducing flavors of its own. French Pinot Gris is milder and more aromatic as compared to its other counterparts, making it a better choice for this cheese.

Fruits to be paired with this combination should be mild in flavour. Green apples, peaches, pears and white grapes are ideal. Citrus fruits also blend in well. Tropical fruits also work provided they are of good quality. Avoid serving with red grapes and fruits that are high in fructose since this will interfere with the natural flavours of the cheese.

-Written by Gab Castellano