Is there anything more perfect than a well-crafted charcuterie board? Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or want to make a casual weeknight meal extra special, an artisanal cheese and meat board is sure to impress any crowd. To take your board to the next level, pair it with the right wine. Read on to learn how to create the perfect wine and charcuterie board.
Choosing the Right Cheese and Meats
When choosing a variety of cheeses and meats for your charcuterie board, always pick a type of cheese that has stronger flavors. For instance, try pairing sharp cheddar with a soft and succulent brie and prosciutto. Make sure to include every cheese textures depending on your liking (like Gouda, Emmentaler, and a soft camembert) and several meats like salami, sausage, and prosciutto. You can also add jams, honey, nuts, honeycomb, fruits, or pickles for added texture and flavor.
Pairing Your Board With Wine
The key to creating a delicious wine and charcuterie board is finding the right balance between your chosen wines and cheeses. When it comes to pairing wines with cheese boards, you have plenty of options! If you’re serving a selection of aged hard cheeses like cheddar or gouda, opt for bold reds like cabernet sauvignon or malbec. For softer cheeses like brie or camembert, choose white wines such as pinot grigio or chardonnay. When pairing wines with cured meats such as salami or pepperoni slices look for lighter reds such as sangiovese or pinot noir. Sweet wines such as riesling are also a great choice for salty meats!
Creating the perfect wine and charcuterie board doesn't have to be intimidating! All you need is the right combination of cheeses, meats, nuts, fruits — whatever suits your fancy — plus some quality wines that will bring out all the flavors in each bite. Whether you're hosting a dinner party at home or just looking for an elevated weeknight meal option that will wow your family friends alike — this guide will help you create an artisanal cheese and meat board that's sure to please everyone's palate! Bon Appetit!
Frequently Asked Questions
What types of cheese work best on a charcuterie board?
- A mix of soft, hard, and blue cheeses, such as brie, cheddar, and gorgonzola, offers diverse flavors and textures.
What meats should be included?
- Include a variety like salami, prosciutto, and chorizo to cater to different palates.
How do I pair wine with my board?
- Consider red wines with rich meats and whites with lighter cheeses; sparkling wines are versatile and pair well with most options.
What fruits are ideal for a charcuterie board?
- Fresh fruits like grapes, figs, and apples add sweetness and balance to savory elements.
Should I include crackers or bread?
- Yes, a variety of crackers and sliced baguette enhances the texture and provides a base for cheeses and spreads.
How can I make my board visually appealing?
- Use a variety of colors, shapes, and sizes in your ingredients, and arrange them artfully on the board for an attractive display.