A Toast to Taste: Perfecting Cheese Wedding Cakes with Wine Pairings
By Lily Meyers, January 2024
What do you think of when you picture your dream wedding? Big white decorations, perhaps a champagne tower.... a tiered cake? Modern day weddings shift from trend to trend all the time, and it just so happens that cheese lovers are going to jump on this one.
Wedding cakes made of cheese (believe it, or not) have surged in popularity over the years and have become a brilliant alternative to the sweeter treats. But what is a good selection of cheese without some fine wine?
The Cheese Cake Trend
While everyone’s heard of cheesecake, it’s not often that people have seen an actual cheese wedding cake. Instead of layers of sponge cake and icing, a cheese wedding cake consists of tiers of whole wheels of cheese stacked on top of each other, resembling the structure of a classic wedding cake. The origin of cheese wedding cakes can be traced back to ancient Greece, where they were first crafted.
It can be tough and easily overwhelming to try and decide how to piece together your cheesy centrepiece, but you can actually get quite creative with it! Are you looking for hard cheeses like Cheddar or Gouda? Or you could mix in some soft ones like Brie or Camembert, and perhaps even add a bit of blue cheese for a kick. The choice is yours - pick the cheeses that suit your personality.
Time for Wine
Now time for the wine pairings. The wrong choice could sour your tongue and ruin the taste of the cheese, which is why it’s so important to do your research before sticking the two together.
Here are some pairing suggestions:
- Brie/Camembert: These soft French cheeses have a rich flavour with mushroomy undertones. Their creaminess can be complemented beautifully by a light, fruity red like Pinot Noir, which brings out the cheese's subtle savoury notes.
- If red wine isn't your preference and you'd rather enjoy something effervescent like Champagne or Prosecco, consider pairing them with triple cream cheeses, such as Delice des Cremiers. These creamy delights will undergo a delightful transformation when paired with these bubbly beverages, enhancing their already buttery-rich flavour.
- Blue Cheeses: Although it’s not to everyone’s taste, for a surprisingly pleasant pair, potent blue cheeses like Roquefort or Stilton go with sweet, fortified wines like Sauternes and port. The robust flavour profile of blue cheeses complements beautifully with the sweetness of these wines, creating an unexpectedly delightful taste sensation that resembles an indulgent dessert.
- Goat Cheese: If you're craving a fresher and maybe even a touch of summer vibe, a dry rosé could be a great match, or you might consider a zesty Sauvignon Blanc for that extra hint of acidity.
- Firm and Hard Cheeses: Aged cheddar or Gouda have a firm texture and deep, complex flavours developed over months or years of ageing. These robust cheeses need equally full-bodied wines to match their intensity. A complex Cabernet Sauvignon and similar reds with character with match these cheeses just beautifully.
Remember, the best pairing is down to you and your partner. Don’t be afraid to scope out some selections and do your own little private tasting before the big day.
So how much does it cost?
Having a cheese wedding cake means you can have the aesthetic of a traditional celebration without all the costs that come with it, as it’s no secret that the cost of weddings are only increasing. You save money on almost every aspect, from decoration to catering, and you make your day that little bit more memorable.
Summary
In summary, cheese wedding cakes provide a distinctive and budget-friendly departure from conventional wedding cakes, infusing your special day with sophistication and unforgettable flavours.
With a wide array of cheese choices, you can create a personalised centerpiece reflecting your unique tastes and personality. Alternatively, explore our expertly curated cheese cakes, artfully blending textures, flavors, and aromas. As you envision your dream wedding, embrace the delightful trend of cheese wedding cakes and unlock the creative possibilities they bring to your celebration.
Lily x
P.S. Get 10% off your cheese, when you subscribe to our newsletter HERE.