Italian Cheese and Wine Pairing
Italy is celebrated around the world for its cheese and wine, with each region offering its own distinctive flavours and traditions. From the vineyards and dairy farms of Piedmont to the rich culinary heritage of Lombardy and Tuscany, many Italian cheeses have developed alongside the wines produced nearby.
To help you create the perfect Italian cheeseboard, we’ve paired some of our favourite Italian cheeses with wines that complement their individual flavours and textures. Some are classic regional combinations, while others offer a delicious contrast that brings out the best in both.
Pecorino DOP & Chianti
Made from sheep’s milk, Pecorino DOP is a firm Italian cheese with a wonderfully buttery, nutty flavour. Its distinctive savoury character becomes more pronounced as it matures, making it a delicious addition to any cheeseboard.
Pair it with a medium-bodied Chianti. The wine’s bright cherry fruit, refreshing acidity and gentle tannins balance Pecorino’s saltiness without overwhelming its more delicate flavours. For a white alternative, try a crisp Vermentino, whose citrus and herbal notes work beautifully with the cheese’s rich, rustic character.
Taleggio DOP & Barbera
Taleggio DOP is a sumptuous washed-rind cheese with a soft, yielding texture. Although its aroma can be powerful, the flavour is surprisingly mellow, combining creamy, fruity and slightly tangy notes.
A lively Barbera is an excellent partner. Its juicy red fruit and naturally high acidity cut through the richness of the cheese, while its soft tannins allow Taleggio’s distinctive flavour to remain centre stage. Alternatively, try a glass of Franciacorta. Its fine bubbles and freshness provide a refreshing contrast to the creamy paste.
Gorgonzola Dolce DOP & Moscato d’Asti
Rich, creamy and gently spicy, Gorgonzola Dolce DOP offers a softer introduction to Italian blue cheese. Its luxurious texture is accompanied by a delicate sweetness and a distinctive blue tang that develops without becoming overpowering.
Pair it with Moscato d’Asti, a lightly sparkling sweet wine from Piedmont. Its floral aromas, ripe peach flavours and gentle sweetness balance the saltiness of the cheese, while its bubbles lift the creamy texture from the palate. For something richer, a sweet Vin Santo also makes an indulgent match.
Robiola Bosina Alta Langa & Roero Arneis
Produced in the Alta Langa area of Piedmont, Robiola Bosina is a soft table cheese made with a blend of cow’s, sheep’s and goat’s milk. Smooth and creamy with a fresh, gently tangy flavour, it offers plenty of character without being overly strong.
Pair it with Roero Arneis, an elegant Piedmontese white wine with notes of pear, citrus and almond. Its freshness complements the delicate acidity of the cheese, while its rounded texture works harmoniously with Robiola’s creamy centre. A dry Italian sparkling wine would also provide a wonderfully refreshing pairing.
Carboncino & Barbera d’Alba
With its striking charcoal-coated rind, Carboncino brings both flavour and visual interest to an Italian cheeseboard. This soft mixed-milk cheese has a smooth, creamy paste with gentle acidity, earthy undertones and a subtle goaty character.
A fruity Barbera d’Alba is a natural companion. Its vibrant acidity cuts through the richness, while flavours of cherry and plum complement the cheese’s earthy notes. If you prefer white wine, try a crisp Gavi, whose citrus and mineral character provides a clean contrast to the creamy texture.
Create Your Own Italian Cheeseboard
Whether you’re hosting an Italian-inspired evening, serving an after-dinner cheeseboard or simply opening a favourite bottle of wine, Italian cheese offers an exceptional variety of flavours and textures to explore.
For an effortless introduction, try The Italian Selection Box, or create your own selection with Pecorino DOP, Taleggio DOP, Gorgonzola Dolce DOP, Robiola Bosina and Carboncino. Add olives, cured meats, figs, honey and crusty bread, then open a bottle of Italian wine for the perfect taste of Italy.
