This week, from June 15th to 23rd, we celebrate English Wine Week—a time to honor the exceptional wines crafted from our unique terroir. It's well-known that wine and cheese form one of the most harmonious pairings, offering a myriad of options to sample and enjoy. At Hambledon, we wholeheartedly believe in the mantra "what grows together, goes together." To enhance your experience, we've asked cheese expert Jessica Summer from Mouse and Grape to suggest her perfect pairings.
Hambledon Classic Cuvée paired with Winslade
The Hambledon Classic Cuvée, with its blend of floral, citrus, and stone fruit aromas and vibrant, structured acidity, pairs wonderfully with Winslade. This is a prime example of the saying, "what grows together, goes together," as the grapes grow in fields nearby to where the cows graze in Hampshire. This proximity is important because it has an impact on the flavour profiles of both products, a phenomenon known as terroir. Winslade, a soft, oozing cheese inspired by Camembert and Mont d'Or recipes, has a gentle earthiness and distinctive piney note from its spruce band, which complements the wine's peach and apricot fruit profile. The cuvée's acidity cuts through the rich creaminess of Winslade, while the cheese’s piney note and gentle earthiness highlight the wine’s complexity and minerality. The result is an indulgent and refined pairing that will leave you reaching for more.
Hambledon Classic Cuvée Rosé paired with Golden Cross
This is honestly one of the most delicious combinations I have ever tried! These two were destined to be eaten together. The Hambledon Classic Cuvée Rosé, known for its clean, crisp, and yeasty finish with fresh cherry and wild strawberry aromas, finds an exquisite partner in Golden Cross. Made in Herefordshire and inspired by the French classic Saint Maure de Touraine, this goat cheese's sweet, soft texture and delicate 'goaty' and grassy flavours are uplifted by the wine's vibrant strawberry pink hue and red fruit notes. The crisp acidity and fine bubbles of the rosé enhance the complex yet subtle flavours of Golden Cross, while the cheese’s creamy texture smooths out the wine's yeasty finish, creating a balanced and refreshing pairing. To elevate this combination even further, add some rosemary-infused crackers and candied cashew nuts for an extra crunch of nuttiness.
Hambledon Première Cuvée paired with Cornish Kern
Hambledon Première Cuvée, with its creamy yet elegant texture and complex flavours of ripe yellow apple, apricots, white peach, buttery pastry, and flinty mineral finish, pairs exceptionally well with Cornish Kern. This British Comté-style cheese from Cornwall is one of my absolute favourites, making it impossible not to go back for more! Its addictive salted caramel and tropical fruit aromas, especially pineapple, along with delicate sweet milky almond flavours and firm texture, perfectly complement the wine's luxurious profile and buttery brioche notes. The cheese's saltiness also accentuates the wine's fruit character. The Premier Cuvée's acidity and fine mousse enhance the depth and fruitiness of Cornish Kern, while the cheese’s complex, long finish keeps the combination evolving on a delicious journey. Enjoy this pairing with some cherry compote and a wafer cracker for an added touch of indulgence.
Hambledon Première Cuvée Rosé paired with Beauvale
This pairing might seem unusual at first, as one might expect the blue cheese to overpower the wine, but they are perfectly matched, with the contrast making them both sing. The salty and earthy notes of Beauvale brings out the vibrant flavours of the Premier Cuvée Rosé, highlighting the raspberry and subtle blackberry notes. The rosé's lively bubbles cut through the rich, tangy blue veins of the cheese, creating a harmonious balance of sweet and savoury. The wine's assertive character complements the boldness of Beauvale, resulting in a mouthwatering combination. For an added layer of decadence, add fresh strawberries and a slice of dark chocolate to your cheese. Remember to take a bite of cheese, then a sip of wine, merging them together to experience the magical, multilayered tasting sensation.
All wines are available to purchase direct from our website. For cheese pairings, visit Mouse & Grape's website, or purchase from your local cheesemonger.
