10 delicious wine and cheese pairings from the grocery store

What’s not to love about wine and cheese? Wine and cheese, both indulgent and changeable, are a preferred and enjoyable pre-meal activity for people of all classes, races, religions and ethnicities. All over the world you will find various types of cheeses and wines being produced, and with today’s import and export, we are fortunate to be able to choose from many here in the United States. That’s not to say that local North American wines and cheeses aren’t worth choosing. We also benefit from local wineries and cheese farms that honor us with their passion for quality craftsmanship and value.

But you don’t have to be a foodie or connoisseur to create your own wine and cheese pairings at home. Your local grocery store around the corner is all you need to build the perfect charcuterie tray for your next night. There are several quick and easy wine and cheese pairings that you can go with to ensure you match the right flavors and aromas for the perfect pairing experience. Below are ten examples of grocery store selections you can find at your local Kroger, Trader Joes, or Fresh Market locations.

Reds

When choosing a red wine, be sure to store it at 60 degrees Fahrenheit to allow the flavor to fully develop. And remove the cheese trays from the refrigerator 30 to 40 minutes before serving to allow the cheeses to soften. Here are some easy-to-consider red combinations.

Cabernet Sauvignon:

• SIMI Alexander Valley Cabernet Sauvignon 2013 – $ 20

• President Soft Ripened Brie Cheese – $ 6

Merlot:

• Beringer Merlot Founders Status 2010 – $ 16

• Tillamook Medium Sharp Cheddar Cheese – $ 5

Pinot Noir:

• Francis Coppola Pinot Noir 2014 – $ 16

• Smoked Gruyère cheese with red apple – $ 8

Chianti:

• Castello Di Gabbiano Chianti 2014 – $ 11

• Galbani Fresh Marinated Mozzarella – $ 6

White clothes

When choosing a white wine, be sure to store and serve it at 45 degrees Fahrenheit for a flawless, flavorful finish. And remember to remove the cheeses from the refrigerator before the guests arrive. This will ensure that each bite is smooth and enjoyable. Here are some easy target combinations to consider.

Chardonnay:

• Cupcake Vineyards Chardonnay 2014 – $ 8

• Dofino Creamy Havarti – $ 6

White zinfandel:

• Barefoot White Zinfandel 2014 – $ 13

• Boar’s Head Muenster Cheese – $ 4

Riesling:

• Schmitt Sohne Riesling – $ 14

• Castello Blue Cheese – $ 9

White sauvignon:

• 2014 Yellowtail Sauvignon Blanc – $ 15

• Goat cheese Montchevre Chevre – & 5

Pinot Gris:

• Chateau Ste Michelle Pinot Gris – $ 10

• Van Gogh Gouda Cheese Private Selection – $ 7