Wines for Soft Cheeses
Camembert • Brie • Pairing Guide
Richness that Demands Freshness
Soft cheeses with bloomy rinds, like Camembert or Brie, have a creamy, rich texture with notes of mushroom and butter. Their high fat content calls for wines with good acidity to cut through that richness, rather than tannic reds which would feel heavy alongside the cheese's creaminess.
At La Cava Shop, we've put together this guide with sparkling and white wines with good acidity, as well as some light reds, to pair with these cheeses.
Quick Guide
- Young Camembert and Brie: Brut sparkling wines, which refresh the creaminess with their bubbles and acidity.
- More mature and intensely flavored versions: Whites with their own richness, like a lightly oaked Chardonnay.
- If you prefer red: Light Pinot Noir, with soft tannins and good acidity.
Frequently Asked Questions
Why does sparkling wine work so well with Camembert or Brie?
The bubbles and acidity of sparkling wine cut through the fat and richness of the cheese, cleansing the palate after each bite and preventing the creamy sensation from becoming heavy.
Can Camembert be paired with a red wine?
Yes, but it's best to choose a light red with soft tannins, like a Pinot Noir; a full-bodied red often overpowers the delicacy of the cheese.
