Let’s put things plainly; those who dismiss the UK as a barren culinary wasteland and, in turn, assume that our cheese and wine scene is somewhat lacking, are, frankly, philistines.
In fact, the UK has long been celebrated for its lush pastures and the exceptional dairy products that result from them. Cheese, in its myriad forms, is a cornerstone of British culinary tradition, and – Francophiles, look away now – is often voted as superior over here than the product across the pond.
But what of ours wines? In recent years, British viticulture has blossomed, with English and Welsh wines gaining international acclaim and ‘reaping the rewards of a warming climate’ (a pretty perverse phrase, we have to admit). With both items in a seemingly unstoppable ascendancy, pairing them feels like the natural thing to do, don’t you think?
The Ascendancy Of British Cheese
British cheese has never been more revered on the global stage than it is today. With a history steeped in tradition, British cheesemakers have been perfecting their craft for centuries. However, it’s the recent surge in artisanal production and a renewed focus on quality and provenance that has truly elevated the status of British cheese. From the craggy farms of Scotland to the rolling hills of the West Country, a renaissance in cheese-making and the sheer variety of types of cheese on offer has taken hold.
British cheesemakers are now experimenting with new techniques and ingredients, while also reviving ancient recipes that had nearly been forgotten. The result is a stunning array of cheeses that are as diverse as the landscapes from which they hail. British cheeses are winning accolades at international competitions and are increasingly sought after by cheese lovers around the world. This newfound reverence is a testament to the dedication of British cheesemakers to their craft and the quality of the milk produced by the country’s exceptional dairy herds.
The Renaissance Of British Wine
British wine has undergone a renaissance, with vineyards in Kent, Sussex, and beyond producing wines that stand shoulder to shoulder with their continental cousins. The cool climate and chalky soil, akin to the terroir of Champagne, have proven ideal for growing grapes such as Chardonnay, Pinot Noir, and Bacchus, which yield sparkling and still wines of remarkable quality.
A Match Made In Heaven: British Cheese & Wine Pairings
Pairing wine with cheese is an art, balancing the intensity and character of each to create a harmonious experience. Here are some quintessentially British pairings that will truly hit the spot…
Stilton and English Sparkling Wine
Stilton, the king of English cheeses, with its rich, pungent, and slightly spicy, tangy flavour, finds its match in the crisp effervescence of an English sparkling wine. The bubbles cut through the creaminess of the cheese, while the minerality complements its complex flavours. Try a glass of sparkling from the South Downs with a creamy wedge of Stilton for a regal pairing. Alternatively, a full bodied Rondo (we’re big fans of those produced by the White Castle Vineyard in Wales) is a beautiful match, too.
Cheddar and Somerset Pomona
Cheddar, arguably Britain’s most famous cheese export, hails from the village of Cheddar in Somerset. Its sharp, tangy taste and firm texture pair splendidly with Somerset Pomona, a fortified wine akin to port but made with apple juice and cider brandy. The sweetness of the Pomona balances the savoury depth of a mature Cheddar, creating a delightful contrast.
Cornish Yarg and Cornish White Wine
Cornish Yarg, wrapped in nettles for a distinctive earthy taste, is a fresh and creamy cheese that pairs beautifully with a light and zesty Cornish Camel Valley white. The wine’s citrus notes and plush but crisp finish complement the Yarg’s creamy texture and herbal undertones.
Red Leicester and Bolney Estate Pinot Noir
The nutty, slightly sweet Red Leicester with its firm texture is a delightful match for a medium-bodied Pinot Noir from Bolney Estate in Sussex. The soft tannins and red fruit flavours of the wine provide a lovely backdrop to the cheese’s mellow character.
Blue Vinny and Dorset White Wine
Dorset Blue Vinny, a crumbly blue cheese with a milder flavour than Stilton, pairs wonderfully with a Bacchus white wine from the Lyme Bay Winery in Dorset.
Talk about terroir! The wine’s minerality and slight sweetness will complement the tangy, spicy notes of the cheese, making for a balanced and enjoyable pairing.
Wensleydale and Yorkshire Heart Vineyard’s White Wine
The crumbly, mild, and slightly sweet Wensleydale cheese, often enjoyed with fruit, is a perfect companion to a floral and aromatic white wine from Yorkshire Heart Vineyard. The wine’s acidity and fruit notes will enhance the cheese’s subtle flavours without overpowering them.
Baron Bigod and Chapel Down Flint Dry
The creamy pungency of the acclaimed, Brie-like Baron Bigod pairs exquisitely with the crisp and aromatic profile of Chapel Down Flint Dry. This wine, with its hints of green apple and citrus, cuts through the richness of the cheese, making for a refreshing and palate-cleansing combination.
Caerphilly and Glyndwr Vineyard Red
The young, crumbly texture and the mild, creamy flavour of Caerphilly cheese is beautifully complemented by a light red wine from Glyndwr Vineyard in Wales. The subtle berry notes and gentle oak of the wine work in harmony with the cheese, creating a pairing that is both comforting and uplifting.
Isle of Mull Cheddar and Sharpham Vineyard’s Barrel Fermented White
The robust, hearty flavour of Isle of Mull Cheddar, with its slight peaty character from the island’s unique terroir, pairs wonderfully with the complexity of a barrel-fermented Pinot Gris ‘Little Bee’ from Sharpham Vineyard. The buttery notes and structured oak of the wine envelop the strong personality of the cheese, resulting in a luxurious taste experience.
Shropshire Blue and Astley Vineyard’s Late Harvest
The striking orange hue and the rich, tangy flavour of Shropshire Blue cheese demand a wine that can stand up to its bold character. A late harvest wine from Astley Vineyard, with its luscious sweetness and concentrated fruit flavours, is an excellent counterpoint to the cheese’s sharpness, creating a pairing that is both indulgent and harmonious.
The Bottom Line
The burgeoning British wine scene, coupled with the country’s rich cheese heritage, offers a delightful playground for the gourmand. Whether you’re a connoisseur or a casual enthusiast, exploring the pairings of British cheese and wine is an adventure in taste that should not be missed. So, raise a glass and a slice of cheese to the best that Britain has to offer. Cheers!