Champagne and Cheese
Is There a More Decadent Pairing?
Champagne and cheese are arguably two of the world’s most luxurious and decadent foods. Both are loved far and wide, but we rarely think Champagne and cheese are a marriage made in heaven. When paired together, they create a truly special experience. The bubbles in the Champagne cleanse the palate between bites of cheese, allowing you to appreciate the flavours of each fully. The acidity in the Champagne also helps to cut through the richness of the cheese, making it more enjoyable to eat.
Many different types of Champagne and cheese can be paired together. Here are a few of our favourites:
Champagne and Gruyère
Champagne and Gruyère is a classic pairing that is a match made in heaven. The fruity, sparkling Champagne perfectly complements the nutty, earthy flavours of Gruyère.
Extra Brut Champagne, by Paul Lebrun, offer a flurry of delicate bubbles with a nose that reveals elegant notes of white blossom, grapefruit and pineapple. With a chiselled mouth, cut herbs, and toasted milk caramel, the Extra Brut is a delightful accompaniment with creamy and salty flavours and the nutty twist of a delicious Gruyère cheese.
Champagne and Brie
Champagne and Brie is a classic pairing that is always a crowd-pleaser. The creamy, buttery Brie is balanced by the acidity and bubbles in the Champagne. Brie is very rich and milky, with an oozy texture at room temperature. The ‘queen of cheese’ is also velvety, and because of the high milk content, it offers hints of wild grasses and flowers, which is why it’s perfect with Champagne. We love it with Carte d’Or Brut by Paul Lebrun Champagne. A traditional Champagne, it is composed of 100% Chardonnay grapes. The fine bubbles provide a delicate and persistent trail. The moderate effervescence creates a pure nose full of candied lemon, peaches and pears. Carte d’Or Brut presents good volume in the mouth, freshness, and youthful style with harmony.
Champagne and Blue Cheese
Champagne and blue cheese seem an unusual combination, but the dreamy combination works surprisingly well. Champagne’s freshness and bubbles mellow out the intense, pungent flavours of blue cheeses like Roquefort and Saint Agur. Cuvée Prestige by Paul Lebrun is a refined and elegant champagne meeting the highest expectations. It is aged on lees for at least forty-eight months, produced in vats and oak barrels, and offers excellent depth for bold blue cheese. Hints of gingerbread are on the nose, alongside freshly churned butter and some floral notes. The creamy texture and well-integrated acidity pair beautifully with creamy, tangy, intense cheeses.