Wine and cheese pairing tours have been a popular attraction in Europe for decades, but the trend is catching on globally. While France, Italy, and Spain still offer some of the most iconic wine and cheese experiences in the world, other countries are stepping up their game with unique offerings.
South Africa
South Africa’s wine industry has been thriving for centuries. The country is known for its bold red wines like Pinotage that pair well with flavorful cheeses like cheddar or gouda. Cheese lovers can explore the Cape Winelands region near Cape Town and visit estates like Delheim Wine Estate or Fairview Wine & Cheese to sample local wines paired with artisanal cheeses.
Argentina
Argentina’s Mendoza region produces some of the best Malbec wines in the world. These full-bodied reds pair perfectly with creamy blue cheeses like Roquefort or Gorgonzola. Visitors to Mendoza can take part in excursions like wine tastings at Bodega Catena Zapata or cheese-making classes at Casa de Uco Vineyards & Wine Resort.
Australia
Australia may be known for its beaches rather than vineyards, but it actually has more than 60 designated wine regions across the country. In South Australia’s Barossa Valley, visitors can indulge in decadent soft-ripened cheese from Barossa Cheese Company alongside rich Shiraz wines from wineries like Penfolds and Henschke.
Chile
Chile offers diverse terroirs that yield an array of great wines including Cabernet Sauvignon and Carmenere varietals that go well with hard nutty cheeses such as Parmigiano Reggiano or aged Manchego. Visitors can venture out into Chile’s Colchagua Valley where many wineries including Montes Wines offer a range of tasting rooms to sample traditional Chilean cuisine along with award-winning vintages.
New Zealand
New Zealand is famous for its Sauvignon Blanc and Pinot Noir varietals. The wine region of Marlborough has an abundance of cheese factories that produce artisanal cheeses fit for a wine pairing experience. A visit to Cloudy Bay Winery or Wairau River Wines can include tasting sessions with local iconic cheeses such as Kapiti Kikorangi blue cheese.
USA
California’s Napa Valley is one of the most popular destinations for wine lovers in the United States. The region produces world-class Cabernet Sauvignon, Chardonnay, and Merlot wines that pair well with creamy Brie or tangy goat cheese from nearby Bellwether Farms. Some wineries like Robert Mondavi offer full-fledged food tours complete with paired dishes featuring local ingredients.
In conclusion, while Europe may be the traditional destination for wine and cheese enthusiasts, there are plenty of options beyond the continent worth exploring. From South Africa to New Zealand and even California, visitors can indulge in delicious pairings while discovering new flavors and cultures along the way.