Valentine’s Day Cheese and Wine

Name: Valentine’s Day Cheese and Wine
Prep time: 20 min
Total time: 20 min
Yield: Serves 2
Ingredients: Brie cheese; Blue cheese; Aged cheddar; Goat cheese; Sauvignon Blanc; Merlot; Chardonnay; Pinot Noir; Assorted crackers; Fresh fruit (grapes, figs); Nuts (almonds, walnuts); Honey or fig jam

Highlighted under: Festive Food Recipes

This Valentine’s Day, we decided to create the perfect cheese and wine pairing for a romantic evening. I love how cheese can elevate any wine, and I found myself experimenting with different flavors to find the ideal combinations. We spent hours tasting and refining our selections, and I am thrilled to share our favorite pairings with you. Whether you're celebrating a special relationship or just enjoying some delicious snacks, this guide will inspire you to set the mood with delightful flavors and a touch of elegance.

Created by

Anna

Last updated on 2026-01-17T14:28:27.732Z

When I think of a romantic evening, the first thing that comes to my mind is cheese and wine. During my preparations for Valentine’s Day, I experimented with a variety of cheeses and the perfect wine to complement them. It's amazing how the textures and flavors of different cheeses can transform a simple wine into an extraordinary experience.

One trick I found is to balance the richness of a creamy Brie with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, which cuts through the cheese’s richness brilliantly. This pairing brought unexpected joy to our evening, and I can’t wait for you to try it!

        Why You Will Love This Recipe
        Decadent selection of cheeses that tantalize the taste buds
Thoughtful wine pairings that enhance the overall experience
Perfect for an intimate evening or a fun gathering with friends

      

Crafting the Perfect Cheese Board

When assembling your cheese board, aim for a balance of flavors and textures. Each cheese should bring something unique to the table; for instance, the creamy Brie pairs wonderfully with the robust and tangy blue cheese. This contrast not only makes the experience exciting but also ensures there’s something for every palate. Consider slices of your cheeses instead of blocks to make tasting easier. You can even cut them into small triangles or wedges for a pinch of creativity.

Don’t overlook the importance of temperature. Cheese should be served at room temperature, so take them out of the fridge about 30 minutes before serving. This allows the flavors to fully develop and makes them easier to spread or slice. For instance, a slightly warm Aged Cheddar becomes crumbly yet rich, enhancing its flavor profile. Keep an eye on your cheeses to ensure they don’t become too melted, especially with softer varieties.

Selecting Wines for Your Pairings

Choosing the right wine is essential to complementing the flavors of your cheese selection. For example, the herbal notes of Sauvignon Blanc can really highlight the creaminess of Brie cheese. When pairing cheese with wine, think about acidity; a high-acid wine cuts through the fat of rich cheeses beautifully, creating a balanced flavor. Always taste the pairings together to see how the wine alters the cheese's experience and vice versa.

If you’re venturing into reds, a smooth Merlot works well with the sharpness of aged cheddar, showcasing its complex flavors. When serving Pinot Noir, consider it alongside goat cheese for a delightful earthy taste. Experimentation is key. It could be beneficial to have a small tasting session beforehand to find your preferred combinations before the big day. Remember, serving temperatures also matter; whites should be chilled, while reds should be at a cool room temperature.

Ingredients

Gather these delightful ingredients to create the ultimate cheese and wine experience:

Cheeses

Brie cheese
Blue cheese
Aged cheddar
Goat cheese

Wines

Sauvignon Blanc
Merlot
Chardonnay
Pinot Noir

Accompaniments

Assorted crackers
Fresh fruit (grapes, figs)
Nuts (almonds, walnuts)
Honey or fig jam

These ingredients will ensure a memorable tasting experience!

Instructions

Follow these easy steps to assemble your cheese and wine platter:

Select Your Cheeses

Choose a variety of cheeses that offer different textures and flavors. A mix of creamy, crumbly, and sharp cheeses can create a beautiful tasting experience.

Pair With Wine

Select wines that complement the cheeses. For example, pair creamy Brie with a refreshing Sauvignon Blanc for a classic combination.

Add Accompaniments

Enhance your platter with assorted crackers, fresh fruits, and nuts. A drizzle of honey or a spoonful of fig jam can add a sweet touch that balances the savory flavors.

Serve and Enjoy

Arrange everything on a beautiful platter, pour the wine, and savor the delightful combinations of flavors together.

Enjoy your romantic evening filled with delectable cheese and wine pairings!

Pro Tips

Try to let your cheese sit at room temperature before serving. This allows the flavors to enhance and makes for a more enjoyable tasting experience.

Creative Accompaniments

Enhancing your cheese and wine experience with the right accompaniments can elevate the entire platter. Fresh fruits like figs and grapes not only add visual appeal but provide a welcome sweetness that contrasts beautifully with savory cheeses. Grapes can be served whole, while figs may be sliced open to reveal their rich, juicy interior, encouraging guests to indulge in contrasting textures and flavors.

Nuts like almonds or walnuts are fantastic for adding a crunchy element. They can also bring a different flavor profile; for example, raw almonds add a slight bitterness that complements the creaminess of Brie, while salted walnuts enhance the overall richness of the aged cheddar. I suggest toasting the nuts lightly before serving to release their oils and intensify their taste.

Serving Suggestions and Storage

When ready to serve, arrange your cheese board thoughtfully. Use a large wooden or slate board for a rustic touch. Group cheeses by type or flavor profile, starting with the mildest and moving to the strongest. This not only looks appealing but helps guide guests on their tasting journey. Keep the wines nearby with appropriate glasses, and don’t forget a few napkins for easy cleanup.

If you have leftover cheeses and accompaniments, storing them properly is key. Wrap cheeses in parchment paper, which allows them to breathe while preventing them from drying out, and place them in the refrigerator. Most cheeses can maintain quality for about a week. Accompaniments like crackers or nuts should be stored in airtight containers to maintain their crunchiness and freshness. Aim to finish your pairing within a couple of days for the best experience!

Questions About Recipes

→ What types of cheese are best for pairing?

Soft cheeses like Brie and goat cheese, along with hard cheeses like aged cheddar and blue cheese are excellent choices.

→ Can I pair red wine with cheese?

Absolutely! Bold cheeses can go wonderfully with red wines like Merlot or Pinot Noir.

→ How do I know which wine to choose?

A good rule of thumb is to match the weight of the cheese with the wine. Heavier cheeses go well with fuller-bodied wines.

→ Can I make this pairing for a larger group?

Definitely! Just scale up the quantities of cheese, wine, and accompaniments based on your guest count.