The Perfect Wine and Cheese Pairing for Spring

As spring unfolds, entertaining takes on a lighter, fresher feel, and few pairings capture the season’s elegance quite like a thoughtfully curated selection of wines and cheeses. Whether hosting an intimate gathering or simply indulging in a quiet evening at home, a well-balanced cheese board paired with the right wines transforms even the simplest moment into a refined experience.

Spring calls for crisp, aromatic whites, delicate rosés, and soft, fruit-forward reds, complemented by cheeses that feel bright, creamy, and fresh—a departure from the heavier flavors of winter.

With a few well-chosen selections, a spring wine and cheese pairing feels effortless, inviting, and perfectly in tune with the season.

The Essentials of a Spring Cheese Board

A well-balanced cheese board should offer a mix of textures and flavors, ensuring harmony with the chosen wines.

• A soft, creamy cheese – Mild and spreadable, perfect with crisp whites and floral rosés.
• A fresh, tangy cheese – Bright and slightly acidic, ideal for springtime wines.
• A firm, nutty cheese – Offering depth and balance for richer wines.
• A blue or aged cheese – Adding complexity, best paired with fruitier wines or dessert pairings.

For a beautifully composed board, include seasonal accompaniments that enhance both flavor and presentation:

• Fresh berries and citrus slices for brightness.
• Delicate crackers and fresh baguette slices to serve as a neutral base.
• Honey, fig preserves, or floral-infused jams for a touch of sweetness.
• Toasted nuts or marcona almonds for a refined crunch.
• Edible flowers or fresh herbs for a seasonal, elegant touch.

The Best Wine & Cheese Pairings for Spring

1. Sauvignon Blanc & Fresh Goat Cheese

A classic pairing for spring, Sauvignon Blanc’s crisp acidity and citrus notes beautifully complement the creamy, tangy profile of fresh goat cheese.

• Wine: Choose a Loire Valley Sancerre or a New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc for a bright, mineral-driven pairing.
• Cheese: Soft, spreadable goat cheese (or Chèvre) with herbs or citrus zest.
• Perfect Pairing Accent: Drizzle of honey and a few slices of pear for a delicate balance.

2. Rosé & Brie or Camembert

A dry, floral rosé brings out the creamy richness of soft-ripened cheeses without overpowering them.

• Wine: A Provence-style rosé with delicate berry and herbal notes.
• Cheese: Brie or Camembert, served slightly warm for an extra indulgent texture.
• Perfect Pairing Accent: Fresh strawberries and a handful of toasted almonds.

3. Chardonnay & Gruyère or Comté

Chardonnay—especially a lightly oaked or Burgundian-style bottle—pairs wonderfully with the nutty depth of Gruyère or Comté.

• Wine: A well-balanced Chardonnay with a hint of butter and minerality.
• Cheese: Aged Gruyère, Comté, or Beaufort, sliced thinly.
• Perfect Pairing Accent: Fig preserves or a touch of lavender honey.

4. Pinot Noir & Mild Blue Cheese

Pinot Noir’s silky red fruit notes and earthy complexity pair elegantly with a mild, creamy blue cheese—a combination that feels both luxurious and unexpected.

• Wine: A light-bodied Pinot Noir with cherry and floral notes (Burgundy or Oregon Pinot Noir).
• Cheese: Gorgonzola Dolce or a mild Stilton.
• Perfect Pairing Accent: Fresh figs and a drizzle of aged balsamic vinegar.

5. Sparkling Wine & Triple-Crème Cheeses

The crisp effervescence of sparkling wine cuts through the rich creaminess of indulgent cheeses like Brillat-Savarin or Saint-André.

• Wine: Champagne, Prosecco, or a fine Crémant de Loire.
• Cheese: Triple-crème cheeses such as Brillat-Savarin, Saint-André, or Delice de Bourgogne.
• Perfect Pairing Accent: Thin slices of green apple and a sprinkling of pink peppercorn.

6. Dry Riesling & Aged Cheddar

Riesling’s high acidity and hint of sweetness complement the sharp, nutty profile of aged cheddar.

• Wine: A dry Riesling from Alsace or the Mosel region.
• Cheese: Aged English Cheddar or an Alpine-style cheese like Appenzeller.
• Perfect Pairing Accent: Thinly sliced dried apricots and toasted walnuts.

Setting the Scene for a Spring Wine & Cheese Evening

The beauty of wine and cheese pairing lies not just in the flavors but in the experience.

• Set a soft, inviting tablescape with delicate linens, candlelight, and floral accents.
• Serve wines slightly chilled, allowing their aromas to develop beautifully.
• Use elegant cheese knives and serveware, ensuring each guest can enjoy the pairings with ease.
• Encourage slow, intentional tasting, allowing guests to savor the complexity of each combination.

The Elegance of Simple Pleasures

Spring entertaining is about embracing the season’s lightness, celebrating fresh flavors, and elevating everyday moments. A well-paired wine and cheese selection offers an effortless yet refined way to gather, toast, and savor the beauty of spring.

Reminders

• Choose a balance of textures and flavors, ensuring variety on the cheese board.
• Pair wines with complementing or contrasting qualities, enhancing the tasting experience.
• Incorporate fresh, seasonal accompaniments, adding vibrancy and depth to the pairings.
• Present the pairings with elegance, making even the simplest gathering feel special.
• Savor the ritual of slow, refined entertaining, allowing the beauty of the season to unfold.

I Am Grateful for Today

1. The effortless elegance of a well-paired wine and cheese board.
2. The way spring flavors bring a sense of freshness and renewal to entertaining.
3. The simple joy of gathering, toasting, and savoring beautiful moments with loved ones.

From Our House to Yours,
Mrs. Mayfair