Hey there, fellow food lovers! Today, let’s embark on a delightful journey through the vineyards of France, exploring the fascinating world of red wines and their magical pairing with cheese. Get ready to unravel the secrets behind this classic culinary duo, all served up in a friendly, approachable style. Read on to discover our list of the best French red wines to pair with cheese.
SEE ALSO: Our complete guide to red wine and cheese pairings from around the world →
History of winemaking in France
In the sun-kissed vineyards of France, where time seems to slow down, the story of winemaking unfolds like a cherished epic. Dating back to the Roman era, France’s winemaking history is a fascinating tale of passion, innovation and enduring tradition.
Ancient beginnings: Romans and vineyards
The earliest archaeological evidence of winemaking in southern France is dated 425 BCE. When the ancient Romans arrived in the 2nd century BCE, they recognised the fertile soils and favourable climate of Gaul (ancient France). Under their guise, winemaking thrived in the region.
They cultivated vines and built the foundations for what would become the world’s most celebrated wine industry. Over time, the art of winemaking began to take root, intertwining with the cultural fabric of the land.
Medieval monasteries: Guardians of knowledge
During the medieval period, winemaking knowledge found sanctuary within the walls of monasteries. Monks meticulously studied the nuances of different grape varieties, terroirs and techniques, refining the art of winemaking.
These devout scholars became the custodians of valuable viticultural knowledge. And they preserved and passed down the secrets of grape cultivation and wine production through generations.
Renaissance and royal patronage: A taste for excellence
With the Renaissance came a renewed interest in refinement and excellence. French wines found favour among royalty and aristocrats, leading to the establishment of vineyards in regions such as Bordeaux, Burgundy and Champagne.
The royal courts of France embraced wines as a symbol of luxury and sophistication, fostering a culture of appreciation that endures to this day.
Phylloxera crisis and modern revival: Rising from ashes
The late 19th century posed a significant challenge to French winemakers: the invasion of phylloxera, a devastating vineyard pest. Vast vineyards were destroyed, and the industry faced a crisis.
However, the resilience of French winemakers prevailed. Through rigorous scientific research and grafting techniques, the vineyards were slowly resurrected. And this led to a modern era of winemaking marked by innovation, quality, and global recognition.
Today’s legacy: Diversity and excellence
In the 21st century, French winemaking stands as a beacon of diversity and excellence. From the iconic vineyards of Bordeaux to the lesser-known gems of Corsica, France continues to produce wines that captivate the senses.
The country’s winemakers embrace both tradition and craft wines that reflect the unique terroirs and grape varieties of each region.
France’s famous red wine regions
Before we delve into the best French red wines to pair with cheese, let’s embark on a scenic tour. As you will see, each region tells a unique story, weaving together the elements of soil, climate and tradition.
1. Bordeaux: The grandeur of blends
Nestled along the Garonne River in the southwest, Bordeaux is synonymous with grandeur. Here, classic blends steal the show, combining Cabernet Sauvignon, Merlot, Cabernet Franc, Petit Verdot and Malbec.
Bordeaux wines are often structured, elegant and complex, reflecting the diverse terroirs of the region. From the gravelly soils of Médoc to the clay-rich plains of Pomerol, Bordeaux wines range from bold and tannic to soft and approachable.
2. Burgundy: Where Pinot Noir reigns supreme
In the eastern part of France lies Burgundy, a region celebrated for its exquisite Pinot Noir wines. Here, the terroir is incredibly diverse, with each vineyard plot, or “climat“, imparting its unique character to the wines.
Undoubtedly, Burgundy Pinot Noirs are known for their elegance, finesse and aromatic complexity. Some spectacular examples include the earthy Gevrey-Chambertin and the velvety Vosne-Romanée.
3. Rhône Valley: Spice, warmth and diversity
Stretching from the south of France to the northern reaches of the Alps, we find the Rhône Valley. As a matter of fact, the region is divided into two main sub-regions: the Northern Rhône and the Southern Rhône. While the former is known for its Syrah-based wines, the latter celebrates Grenache grapes.
Northern Rhône wines, such as those from Côte-Rôtie, boast bold flavours of dark fruit, pepper and spice. In contrast, southern wines from Châteauneuf-du-Pape are rich, warm and often blended with an array of grape varieties. Of course, those red wines all pair wonderfully with cheese.
4. Languedoc-Roussillon: A Mediterranean affair
Along the sun-kissed Mediterranean coast, Languedoc-Roussillon offers a diverse array of red wines. In fact, this region is characterised by a Mediterranean climate, which imparts warmth and richness to the wines.
Languedoc reds, made from varieties like Syrah, Grenache and Carignan, are often bold, fruit-forward, and wonderfully expressive. From the rugged terrains of Corbières to the coastal vineyards of Fitou, Languedoc-Roussillon wines are a testament to the region’s vibrant spirit.
5. Beaujolais: Joyful Gamay wines
Nestled to the south of Burgundy, Beaujolais produces wine primarily using the Gamay grape. Since the hallmark of Beaujolais wines is their vibrant fruitiness, they are approachable and perfect for casual gatherings.
The region is renowned for its Beaujolais Nouveau, a young, fresh wine released just weeks after the harvest. On the other hand, Beaujolais Crus hail from specific villages and offer a more complex and structured profile.
From the floral notes of Fleurie to the robust character of Morgon, Beaujolais wines are a celebration of youthful exuberance and finesse. And the latter will be making an appearance further down in our list of the best French red wines to pair with cheese.
6. Sud-Ouest: Diversity in every sip
Sud-Ouest, or Southwest France, is a treasure trove of unique and diverse red wines. From the robust and tannic Madiran wines, made primarily from the Tannat grape, to the lush and fruity Malbec-based wines of Cahors, Sud-Ouest showcases a kaleidoscope of flavours.
The region also produces delightful reds from indigenous grapes like Duras and Fer Servadou, adding a touch of rustic charm to the wines. Whether you’re savouring the richness of a Cahors wine or the spicy notes of a Gaillac red, Sud-Ouest offers a delightful array of red wine experiences.
7. Corsica: Island elegance
Off the southeastern coast of France lies the enchanting island of Corsica. The “Île de Beauté” is home to vineyards that are kissed by the Mediterranean sun and caressed by sea breezes. Presently, Corsican red wines are predominantly crafted from Niellucciu and Sciaccarellu grapes. Without a doubt, they embody the essence of the island’s rugged beauty.
These wines often exhibit bright red fruit flavours, herbal nuances and a subtle minerality. Corsican reds are versatile, pairing wonderfully with both soft and hard cheeses, making them a delightful choice for any cheese lover’s palate.
In the heart of these regions, amidst rolling hills and ancient vineyards, the soul of French winemaking comes alive. Each region, with its distinct grape varieties and winemaking techniques, adds a vibrant chapter to the grand narrative of French red wines.
The art of pairing red wine with cheese
Before we get to our list of the best French red wines to pair with cheese, let’s touch on the theory of pairing. There’s an undeniable magic in finding the perfect balance between the nuanced notes of a well-aged red and the creamy, savoury richness of cheese.
When done right, this culinary harmony elevates both the wine and the cheese, creating a symphony of tastes on your tongue.
Complementary complexity
One of the beauties of pairing red wine with cheese lies in their complementary complexity. The tannins in red wine, especially in varieties like Cabernet Sauvignon or Syrah, soften when met with the fats in cheese, creating a smoother, more rounded taste.
Moreover, the wine’s fruitiness can enhance the cheese’s flavours. From the mild sweetness of a young Gouda to the robustness of a Beaufort, a perfect pairing can create an explosion of taste in every bite.
Balancing act
Achieving the perfect pairing is akin to a delicate balancing act. Soft cheeses, like Brie or Brillat-Savarin, find their match in subtle white and sparkling wines, where the wine’s acidity cuts through the richness. Hence, subtle soft cheeses tend to not pair well with red wines.
However, robust cheeses like aged Comté or Gruyère, harmonise beautifully with bold, full-bodied red wines like Merlot or Cabernet Sauvignon. The reason for this is their intense flavours which can stand up to the cheese’s strength.
Personal exploration
The beauty of pairing red wine with cheese is its subjective nature. There are no strict rules; rather, it’s an invitation to explore and trust your taste buds. Don’t hesitate to experiment – try contrasting textures and flavours, and don’t shy away from unconventional pairings.
Perhaps a smoky blue cheese with a velvety Malbec, or a tangy goat cheese with a spicy Shiraz? The possibilities are as endless as the varieties of wine and cheese themselves.
Best French red wines to serve with cheese
Pairing red wine with cheese is an art, and when it comes to selecting the right wine from specific regions, the choices are as diverse as the French countryside itself.
Here, we present a curated selection of two exceptional red wines from each of France’s renowned regions, perfectly matched with an array of cheeses.
1. Bordeaux
Château Margaux (Margaux): This elegant Bordeaux has refined tannins and notes of blackcurrant and violets. Consequently, it harmonises beautifully with the creamy textures of Saint-Nectaire, enhancing its buttery undertones.
Château Haut-Brion (Pessac-Léognan): A distinguished wine with layers of complexity, this Bordeaux pairs splendidly with Maroilles. Indeed, the wine’s robust character complements the boldness of the washed rind cheese, creating a delightful pairing.
2. Burgundy
Domaine de la Romanée-Conti (Vosne-Romanée): Known as the king of Burgundy, this Pinot Noir is a match made in heaven with goat cheeses like Picodon. Its velvety texture and red berry notes accentuate the creaminess of the cheese, resulting in a luxurious pairing experience.
Louis Jadot Beaune 1er Cru (Beaune): With its fruity aromas and spicy notes, this Burgundy red shines when paired with Epoisses. Effectively, the wine’s robust qualities match the equally robust aroma and meaty flavour of this soft washed rind cheese.
3. Rhône Valley
E. Guigal Côte-Rôtie (Côte-Rôtie): Next, we have a Syrah-based wine boasting dark fruit flavours and a hint of spice. It finds its match in the playful Saint-Marcellin. The wine’s depth complements the cheese’s complexity, resulting in a bold and unforgettable pairing.
Château de Beaucastel Châteauneuf-du-Pape (Châteauneuf-du-Pape): A blend of various grapes, this wine pairs exquisitely with a Tomme de Chèvre or Brebis. Its ripe fruit notes and hints of garrigue bring out the subtle earthy flavours of the cheese, creating a memorable combination.
4. Languedoc-Roussillon
Domaine Gauby Côtes du Roussillon Villages (Côtes du Roussillon Villages): This robust red, with its dark berry notes and hints of spice, is a delightful partner for the Basque cheese, Ossau-Iraty. Since the wine’s depth complements the cheese’s complexity, the pairing delivers a harmonious balance of flavours.
Château Puech-Haut Saint-Drezery (Languedoc): Paired with Tomme de Savoie, this wine, characterised by its red fruit aromas and velvety texture, creates a delightful contrast. The cheese’s mildness allows the wine’s subtle nuances to shine, creating an elegant pairing.
5. Beaujolais
Jean Foillard Morgon ‘Cote Du Py’ (Morgon): This Gamay-based wine, bursting with red fruit flavours and a touch of floral notes, pairs wonderfully with Camembert. The wine’s brightness cuts through the cheese’s richness, creating a balanced and refreshing pairing.
Château des Jacques Moulin-à-Vent (Moulin-à-Vent): With its structure and depth, this wine complements the earthy notes of Savoie’s Reblochon. The wine’s cherry undertones accentuate the cheese’s flavours, resulting in a delightful fusion of tastes.
6. Sud-Ouest
Château Montus Madiran (Madiran): Known for its powerful tannins and black fruit notes, this wine pairs exquisitely with Pont-l’Évêque. As the wine’s robust character stands up to the cheese’s intensity, they make a bold and memorable pairing.
Domaine du Cros Marcillac (Marcillac): Paired with Roquefort, this wine, characterised by its vibrant acidity and red berry flavours, offers a delightful contrast. Indeed, the cheese’s saltiness is beautifully balanced by the wine’s fruity sweetness, resulting in a harmonious combination.
7. Corsica
Clos Canarelli Corse Figari (Figari): This Corsican red, boasting flavours of dark cherries and Mediterranean herbs, pairs splendidly with Tomme de Brebis from the island. The wine’s herbal notes complement the cheese’s earthy flavours, creating a delightful union of tastes.
Domaine Comte Abbatucci Ajaccio Faustine (Ajaccio): With its floral aromas and red berry notes, this wine finds a perfect match in Corsican washed rind cheeses like A Filetta. The wine’s freshness accentuates the cheese’s creamy texture, resulting in a refreshing and elegant pairing.
These handpicked wines, each representing the essence of its region, offer a gastronomic experience that celebrates the diversity and richness of French winemaking.
Conclusion
As we conclude our journey through the vineyards and cheese cellars of France, we raise our glasses to the delightful art of pairing red wines and cheese. In this culinary adventure, we’ve explored the diverse terroirs of Bordeaux, the joyful elegance of Beaujolais, the rustic charm of Sud-Ouest,and so much more.
The heart of this exploration lies not just in the extraordinary flavours but in the stories these wines and cheeses tell—the tales of passionate winemakers, the whisper of centuries-old traditions, and the unique terroirs that shape each bottle and wheel.
So, whether you’re indulging in the luxurious combination of Château Margaux and Saint-Nectaire, experiencing the playful dance of Beaujolais with Camembert, remember that the essence of this pairing journey lies in your own exploration. Don’t be afraid to try new combinations, to trust your taste buds, and to celebrate the delightful surprises that come with each sip and bite.
Cheese lover. Scientist. Created a website and a Youtube channel about cheese science because he could not find answers to his questions online.
