Pairing Merlot with Cheese: A Napa Valley Guide

Discovering the Harmony of Merlot and Cheese in Napa Valley

Hello fellow wine and cheese lovers! Nestled between the rolling hills and scenic vineyards of Northern California, Napa Valley has long been my sanctuary for all things wine. Today, I want to take you on a journey through the velvety world of Merlot and the cheeses that make this wine sing.

The Profile of Merlot – Smooth and Versatile

Merlot, with its smooth tannins and notes of black cherry, plum, and hints of chocolate, is one of Napa Valley's prized varietals. It's often overshadowed by Cabernet Sauvignon, but those of us local to the valley have a special place in our hearts for this red. Why? Its versatility makes it a fantastic pairing for a myriad of dishes, especially cheese.

Why Cheese? The Art of Pairing

Pairing wine with cheese is a tradition that goes back centuries. The creamy texture of cheese complements the structured tannins in wine, creating a harmonious palate experience. Think of it as a dance where both partners move seamlessly together, enhancing each other's strengths.

Napa Valley's Top Cheese Stops

Before diving into specific pairings, I'd recommend visiting some of Napa's best cheese shops. My personal favorite is Oxbow Cheese & Wine Merchant at Oxbow Public Market. Their knowledgeable staff can guide you through a diverse cheese selection tailored to your wine choices.

Merlot and Cheese: The Perfect Matches

Gouda

The caramel notes in aged Gouda are a delightful match for Merlot's fruit-forward profile. The creaminess of the cheese softens the wine's tannins, making each sip an experience to savor.

Brie

The soft, buttery texture of Brie envelops the palate, preparing it for the lush flavors of Merlot. It's a classic pairing that never disappoints.

Blue Cheese

For those adventurous in flavor, the boldness of blue cheese, especially varieties like Roquefort or Gorgonzola, balances the deep fruit flavors of Merlot, resulting in a dynamic taste sensation.

Elevating Your Experience with Napa's Merlots

If you're keen on exploring the very best of Merlot in Napa, I'd recommend starting with Duckhorn Vineyards. Their Merlots are expressive and beautifully crafted, epitomizing the valley's prowess in producing this varietal.

Tips for a Memorable Wine and Cheese Night

1. Temperature Matters: Serve your Merlot slightly below room temperature and take your cheese out of the fridge at least an hour before consuming.
2. Taste in Order: Start with milder cheeses and move to stronger ones, allowing your palate to adjust.
3. Engage Your Senses: Take a moment to appreciate the aroma of both the wine and cheese before diving in.

Beyond Merlot – Exploring Napa Valley's Wine Tapestry

While Merlot and cheese is a match made in heaven, Napa offers a plethora of wine experiences. From intimate tastings at family-run wineries to exploring historic wine caves, there's something for every wine lover here. Check out the Napa Valley Wine Train for a unique journey through our wine country's heart.

The Timeless Allure of Merlot and Cheese

In the end, pairing Merlot with cheese is about more than just flavors – it's about the experience. The camaraderie of sharing a bottle with friends, the stories exchanged over a cheese platter, and the memories forged amidst Napa Valley's picturesque backdrop. I hope this guide inspires you to explore the world of Merlot and cheese in our beautiful valley. Cheers!

Wine Retailers & Wineries

1. Duckhorn Vineyards: As mentioned in the blog, Duckhorn is renowned for its Merlots. Located in St. Helena, they offer a portfolio tasting where one can experience their exquisite Merlots.
2. Stags' Leap Winery: Located in Napa, this winery has a rich history and offers an array of wines, including Merlots that are perfect for cheese pairing.

Cheese Shops & Markets

1. Oxbow Cheese & Wine Merchant: Situated in the Oxbow Public Market in Napa, this spot offers a plethora of cheeses, perfect for pairing with Merlot.
2. Sunshine Foods Market: Located in St. Helena, this market offers a curated selection of gourmet cheeses.

Wine and Cheese Tasting Experiences

1. V. Sattui Winery: Located in St. Helena, V. Sattui offers both wine tasting and a gourmet deli with a variety of cheeses, making it easy for visitors to curate their wine and cheese pairings.
2. The Napa Valley Wine Train: This is more than just a train ride. The Napa Valley Wine Train offers gourmet meals, wine tastings, and themed journeys through the picturesque Napa Valley.

Gourmet Food and Wine Tours

1. Gourmet Walks - Napa Valley: They offer walking food and wine tours in Napa, giving an opportunity to sample wines and cheeses from various local establishments.
2. Napa Valley Wine Country Tours: They offer customized tours where you can specify your interests, including, but not limited to, Merlot and cheese pairings.