Mastering the art of pairing wine and cheese isn’t as daunting as it seems. The basic rule of wine and food pairing applies with cheeses as well. Consider complementary or contrasting flavors. Acidic wine cuts sweetness, while a lush wine works well with a triple-cream cheese. Most experts agree white wine pairs better with cheese, although there are reds that complement well.

Taste Test: Taste a piece of cheese alone, then another with a taste of wine. How do they mingle?

To simplify, we have broken them down into four categories:

Fresh: These cheeses are not typically aged. They are tangy or mild, soft and often spreadable.

• Ricotta, Mozzarella, Goat, Feta
• Pairs best with: Pinot Grigio, Sauvignon Blanc, Chenin Blanc

Hard: Stiff Cheese. Sometimes aged, they are often sharp, salty or a combination of both.

• Cheddar, Parmesan, Pecorino, Gruyere, Fontina
•  Pairs best with Merlot, Chianti, Zinfandel, Sauvignon Blanc

Blue: Blue tinged…