When it comes to indulging in the finer things in life, wine and cheese pairings are top of mind for many people. Every state boasts its unique culinary traditions, so it should come as no surprise that local preferences for wine and cheese combinations reflect these distinct flavors.
Here, we’ll explore some of the top choices in different states and uncover how these cheese and wine combinations harmonize with each other to create an extraordinary flavor experience.
The Most Popular Pairing in Every U.S. State
In the vast state of Texas, where bold flavors reign supreme, locals embrace the delightful duo of moscato, a semi-sweet, fruity wine, with rich and creamy Oaxaca cheese.
Oaxaca cheese traces its roots to Mexico, adding a cultural connection to this pairing. The refreshing notes of moscato provide a pleasant contrast to the smoothness of Oaxaca cheese, creating a striking balance that tantalizes the taste buds.
Similarly, on the sun-kissed shores of California, where vineyards stretch as far as the eye can see, wine enthusiasts prefer to pair chardonnay with Oaxaca cheese. This full-bodied white wine boasts a perfect harmony of flavors, complementing the Oaxaca cheese’s slightly nutty and buttery notes.
A match made in flavor heaven awaits in the Southern state of North Carolina, known for its vibrant culinary scene: pimento cheese and a rich, velvety red blend.
Pimento cheese, a beloved Southern delicacy, finds its perfect companion in a robust red blend. The sharpness of the cheese and the complex flavors of the red blend create a symphony of tastes that captures the essence of Southern cuisine.
Notably, North Carolina is also home to Duplin Winery, the oldest and largest winery in the South, making this pairing all the more special for the locals.
Among the breathtaking landscapes of the Pacific Northwest, we find a cheese that reigns supreme in both Oregon and Washington: mizithra. This soft, tangy cheese finds its ideal wine partner in nebbiolo and a red blend, respectively.
The delicate fruit flavors of the wines harmonize beautifully with the creaminess and distinctive tang of mizithra, creating a delightful experience that captures the essence of the region’s culinary traditions.
While each state has its own distinctive wine and cheese pairing preferences, Parmesan holds the crown as the most popular cheese overall. Its sharp and nutty profile makes it an excellent choice for pairing with a wide range of wines.
Similarly, moscato reigns as the top wine overall, thanks to its fruity and semi-sweet nature that pleases palates across the nation.
Closing Thoughts
Wine and cheese pairings have the ability to transport us on a culinary journey, celebrating the unique flavors and traditions of places far and wide.
From the refreshing combination of moscato and Oaxaca cheese in Texas to the delectable marriage of pimento cheese and a red blend in North Carolina, these pairings offer a glimpse into the diverse gastronomic landscape of the United States.
At Shane Co., we understand the art of pairing, not only in the culinary world but also in jewelry. Just as the perfect combination of wine and cheese can elevate your dining experience, the right engagement ring or wedding band can sweeten your special moments and celebrations.
Indulge in the art of pairing beyond the plate by exploring Shane Co.’s exquisite fine jewelry collection. Let us help you find the perfect piece to elevate your personal style and commemorate life’s most cherished moments.
Methodology
To identify the top wine and cheese pairing in every U.S. state, we started with a list of 50 of the most popular wines and cheeses. From there, we analyzed Google Trends search volume from May 2022 to May 2023 for each wine and cheese individually. We then compared the data to map out each state’s favorite wine and favorite cheese.
