Every year on July 25, food lovers celebrate National Wine and Cheese Day, a playful event dedicated to one of the world’s most recognisable food pairings. Wine and cheese have been enjoyed together for centuries, both at casual home evenings and elegant dinners. Besides highlighting the pleasure of such a wonderful food combination, this day also draws attention to the craftsmanship behind it, regional traditions, and different flavour combinations. Here are five interesting facts about the celebration and the reason for such an amazing popularity of this timeless combination.
Why wine and cheese go together
There are plenty of different reasons to enjoy wine and cheese together because of the way the flavours of these two products complement each other. While the acidity and fruitiness of the wine help to balance the creaminess of the cheese, the latter can soften the tannins contained in particular types of wine. That way, people can get a very harmonious combination of tastes.
It’s not just one perfect combination
Contrary to popular belief, there is no universal formula for pairing wine and cheese, and different combinations are available for every person. People often match soft Brie with sparkling or white wine, aged Cheddar with bold red wines, goat cheese with Sauvignon Blanc, and blue cheeses with sweet dessert wines. What matters the most in this case is the personal taste.
Serve the cheese at room temperature
There is one simple way of improving the tasting experience connected with this food pairing, which consists of serving the cheese at room temperature. Cold cheese is usually harder and has fewer flavours. In order to release the aroma of the cheese, people should leave it outside the fridge for 30 to 60 minutes before consumption.
The history goes back hundreds of years ago
This food combination has a rich history rooted in many European countries such as France, Italy, and Spain. As both wine and cheese products were often produced in the same areas, people started using them in their meals and during different festivities. After centuries, the practical approach turned into the great culinary tradition.
National wine and cheese day is celebrated with great company
Besides highlighting the flavour combinations, this celebration allows people to have a nice evening in good company. People organize various informal tastings, share cheese boards, and try new combinations of these two products.
