We all know Wine and Cheese go hand and hand, but few of us really know which wines go best with which Cheeses. This Holiday season, wow your guests with your knowledge of the two, with these helpful suggestions. Your friends will think you’ve been studying to be a Sommelier on the side… Don’t worry- your secret is safe with us! And- to make your lives easier, we got together with our friends at Wine and Beyond to recommend some excellent bottles that will impress your guests but won’t break the bank!

1. Champagne + Brie. Both of these are a staple during the holiday season and they are a perfect match. The sparkling characteristic of the Champagne exfoliates the creamy texture of the Brie. Wine and Beyond’s in house Sommelier, Chase, Recommends : Tattinger

2. Sancerre Sauvignon Blanc + Goat Cheese. Located around a medieval hilltop town on the left bank of the Loire Valley,  Sancerre is a crisp and refreshing white wine. The acidity and minerality of this wine balances the bold flavours of Goat Cheese perfectly. Wine and Beyond’s in house Sommelier, Chase, Recommends : Sancerre Les Baronnes

3. Port + Blue Cheese (or Stilton). I know what you’re thinking. Port is a dessert wine. BUT trust us, this combination is AMAZING. The sweetness of the Port goes beautifully with the savoury nature of the blue cheese. Wine and Beyond’s in house Sommelier, Chase, Recommends : Ramos Pinto Porto

4. Riesling + Gorgonzola. Often Riesling is synonymous with sweet. But did you know that almost all Canadian Rieslings are dry or off- dry (slightly sweet). The rich and creamy texture of Gorgonzola along with its signature slightly pungent flavor, go hand in hand with an off- dry Riesling. Wine and Beyond’s in house Sommelier, Chase, Recommends : Tantalus Old Vines Riesling

5. Cabernet + Cheddar. The Boldness of the Cabernet is an impeccable match for the sharpness of the Cheddar. The Cheddar breaks down the tannins in the Cabernet, and at the same time brings out the robust fruit flavors of the wine! Wine and Beyond’s in house Sommelier, Chase, Recommends : Justin Paso Robles Cabernet Sauvignon

Now, if you are Charcuterie lovers like we are, we felt this post wouldn’t be complete without a nod to the other half of the board, meats! Never built a charcuterie board before or need some inspo? We’ve got you covered there too! Head over to our Charcuterie + Crudité posts!

1. Italian Red + Cured Meat: The color of this delicious Italian wine is deep ruby red with a fruit nose with clear notes of blueberry and earthy touches. This wine’s vibrancy, full bodied taste, and long finish go perfectly with the cured meat on your charcuterie board, especially Salami and Prosciutto. Wine and Beyond’s in house Sommelier, Chase, Recommends : Viberti La Gemella Barbera

2. Lambrusco + Anything: If you want to choose a wine that will be a sure fire hit with everyone and pair well with EVERYTHING on your board. Choose Lambrusco! This sparkling Italian red wine has just enough effervescence to cut through the fats of the meats and cheeses. It is easy drinking and refreshing too! Wine and Beyond’s in house Sommelier, Chase, Recommends : Lambrusca

Want the chance to do some Wine + Cheese tasting of you own? Enter to win tickets to the Holiday Wine + Cheese Evening at the Windermere location of Wine and Beyond over on our instagram page!