Grilled Cheese Wine Pairing – The Best Wines for Grilled Cheese

As a foodie, one of my favorite things about wine is its versatility in pairing with food.

While wine and cheese is a classic combination, have you ever considered a grilled cheese wine pairing?

Yes, that’s right, grilled cheese is not just for kids’ lunches anymore!

The gooey, melted cheese sandwich can be elevated to a sophisticated dish when paired with the right wine.

So, what wine goes with grilled cheese?

The best wines to pair with grilled cheese are Riesling, Moscato, and Pinot Noir. These light-bodied wines have enough acidity to cut through the richness of the cheese and butter. Merlot is also a good choice for its slightly sweet, fruity notes that complement creamy cheeses.

In this article, we will explore the best wines for grilled cheese, including reds, whites, and even rosé.

We will also provide some creative serving ideas and tips for serving temperature and glassware.

So sit back, relax, and let’s dive into the world of grilled cheese wine pairing.

Why Consider Serving Wine With Grilled Cheese?

Grilled cheese and wine may seem like an odd pairing at first, but they can actually complement each other quite nicely.

Wine has the ability to enhance the flavors of food, and grilled cheese is no exception.

1. Firstly, serving wine with grilled cheese can elevate the dish to a more sophisticated level. It turns a humble sandwich into a refined meal. Plus, it’s a great way to impress guests with a unique and unexpected pairing.
2. Secondly, wine can cut through the richness of the cheese and balance out the saltiness. Grilled cheese can be quite heavy and fatty, but a good wine can provide a refreshing contrast that cleanses the palate and leaves you wanting more.
3. Thirdly, grilled cheese can come in a variety of forms and flavors. From classic cheddar to brie and apple or even spicy jalapeño, there’s a grilled cheese for everyone. The diverse range of flavors and textures in grilled cheese means there’s a wine out there that can perfectly complement each type.
4. Finally, grilled cheese and wine can be a match made in heaven when it comes to entertaining. It’s a fun and creative way to serve food and drinks at a party or gathering. Your guests will love the unexpected pairing, and it’s sure to be a conversation starter.

The Best Red Wines For Grilled Cheese

When it comes to red wine, it’s all about finding the right balance of tannins, acidity, and fruitiness to complement the cheese.

1. A light to medium-bodied red wine with moderate acidity is a great choice for grilled cheese. Pinot Noir is a classic option that pairs well with cheddar and turkey, ham, or bacon sandwiches. Its light tannins and bright acidity can cut through the richness of the cheese and provide a refreshing contrast.
2. Merlot is another great option for grilled cheese. It has a smooth and velvety texture that complements the creaminess of the cheese. Its medium body and moderate tannins make it a good match for a variety of grilled cheese flavors.
3. For a bolder pairing, try a Cabernet Sauvignon with a sharp cheddar grilled cheese. Its high tannins and full body can stand up to the strong flavors of the cheese and create a complex and flavorful combination.
4. In addition to these classic options, don’t be afraid to try something more unconventional. A light and fruity red like a Beaujolais or a chilled red like a Lambrusco can be surprising and delightful with a grilled cheese.

When it comes to pairing red wine with grilled cheese, serving it slightly below room temperature (around 60-65°F) can help balance out the flavors and make for a more enjoyable experience.

And as always, be sure to use appropriate glassware that allows the wine to breathe and fully express its flavors.

The Best White Wines For Grilled Cheese

When it comes to white wine, the acidity and fruitiness are key factors in pairing with grilled cheese.

1. A full-bodied white wine like Chardonnay is always a safe option for grilled cheese. Its buttery and oaky flavors can complement the creaminess of the cheese, while its high acidity can balance out the richness.
2. If you’re looking for something with a bit more sweetness, try a Riesling. This sweet white wine can pair well with grilled cheese sandwiches that have a spicy twist, such as those with jalapeños or hot sauce. The sweetness can help cool down the spiciness while also complementing the flavors of the cheese.
3. For a lighter and more refreshing option, a Sauvignon Blanc can be a great choice. Its high acidity and citrusy notes can provide a contrast to the richness of the cheese and create a bright and zesty pairing.
4. Finally, a Moscato can be a fun and unexpected pairing with grilled cheese. Its sweet and fruity flavors can complement a variety of grilled cheese flavors, especially those with fruit or honey components.

As with red wine, serving white wine slightly below room temperature (around 45-50°F) can help balance out the flavors and make for a more enjoyable experience. And be sure to use appropriate glassware that allows the wine to fully express its flavors and aromas.

The Best Rosé Wines For Grilled Cheese

Rosé is a versatile wine that can pair well with a variety of grilled cheese flavors.

1. A dry rosé with high acidity can be a great option for grilled cheese. Its crisp and refreshing flavors can cut through the richness of the cheese and create a balanced pairing. A Grenache-based rosé can be a good choice, as its fruity and spicy notes can complement a variety of grilled cheese flavors.
2. For a sweeter option, try a White Zinfandel. Its fruity and floral flavors can complement the creaminess of the cheese, while its sweetness can balance out any spiciness in the sandwich.
3. A sparkling rosé can also be a fun and celebratory option for grilled cheese. Its effervescence can provide a contrast to the richness of the cheese and create a festive atmosphere.

Other Wines To Pair With Grilled Cheese

In addition to red, white, and rosé wines, there are other types of wines that can pair well with grilled cheese.

1. For example, a light and crisp sparkling wine like Prosecco or Champagne can be a great option for grilled cheese. Its effervescence can cut through the richness of the cheese and provide a refreshing contrast. Plus, who doesn’t love a little bubbly?
2. Another option to consider is fortified wines like Sherry or Port. These wines can pair well with grilled cheese sandwiches that have a sweet or savory element, such as those with figs or honey. The sweetness and nuttiness of the wine can complement the flavors of the cheese and create a complex and satisfying pairing.
3. If you’re feeling adventurous, try a natural or orange wine with your grilled cheese. These unique and often funky wines can provide an unexpected twist to your pairing and create a memorable experience.

As always, be sure to serve your wine in appropriate glassware and at the right temperature to fully enjoy its flavors and aromas.

Tasty Grilled Cheese And Wine Dinner Serving Ideas

Now that we’ve explored the best wines for grilled cheese, let’s talk about some tasty grilled cheese and wine dinner serving ideas.

1. One fun idea is to have a grilled cheese bar where guests can make their own customized sandwiches. Offer a variety of breads, cheeses, and toppings like bacon, avocado, or tomato. Then, pair each sandwich with a different wine to create a unique and personalized experience for each guest.
2. Another idea is to have a wine and cheese board with a selection of grilled cheese sandwiches. Pair each sandwich with a different wine, and serve them all together on a board or platter. This is a great way to offer a variety of flavors and textures, and allows guests to try different combinations.
3. For a more formal dinner party, consider serving a gourmet grilled cheese as the main course. Think truffle oil, brie, and caramelized onions on sourdough bread. Pair this decadent sandwich with a full-bodied red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a buttery Chardonnay.
4. If you’re looking for a quick and easy meal, try a classic grilled cheese sandwich with a glass of sparkling wine. The effervescence of the wine can provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheese and create a fun and casual dining experience.

Serving Temperature And Glassware

1. Firstly, serving temperature is important for both red and white wines. As mentioned earlier, serving red wine slightly below room temperature (around 60-65°F) and white and rosé wines slightly chilled (around 45-50°F) can help balance out the flavors and make for a more enjoyable experience. Be sure to check the temperature of your wine before serving, and adjust as necessary.
2. Secondly, appropriate glassware can enhance the flavors and aromas of the wine. For red wines, use glasses with a larger bowl that allow for the wine to breathe and fully express its flavors. For white and rosé wines, use glasses with a smaller bowl to help maintain the wine’s temperature and preserve its crispness.

When it comes to serving grilled cheese, consider the texture and temperature of the sandwich. Grilled cheese sandwiches can range from crispy and crunchy to soft and gooey, so it’s important to choose the right wine to complement the texture.

For a crispy sandwich, a wine with higher acidity and tannins can provide a contrast to the crunchiness. For a gooey sandwich, a wine with a smooth and velvety texture can complement the creaminess of the cheese.

Conclusion

In conclusion, grilled cheese and wine can be a surprising and delightful pairing.

From classic cheddar to brie and apple or spicy jalapeño, there’s a grilled cheese for everyone, and a wine to perfectly complement each type.

When pairing wine with grilled cheese, consider the acidity, tannins, and fruitiness of the wine, and how it can balance out the richness of the cheese.

Be sure to adjust the serving temperature and use appropriate glassware to fully enjoy the wine’s flavors and aromas.

So, what wine pairs well with grilled cheese?

The best wines to pair with grilled cheese are Riesling, Moscato, and Pinot Noir. Riesling pairs especially well because its sweetness cuts through the richness of the cheese and bread. Merlot is also a great option as it adds complexity to this simple dish.

Whether you’re hosting a dinner party or just looking for a fun and creative way to enjoy your favorite sandwich, grilled cheese and wine is a pairing worth exploring. So, grab a bottle of your favorite wine, fire up the grill, and indulge in this sophisticated and delicious combination. Cheers!