Last Updated on May 27, 2023 by Aaron
Asiago cheese, a versatile and flavorful Italian cheese, is a delight to the senses. Its rich, nutty flavor and creamy to crumbly texture make it a favorite among cheese lovers.
But what truly elevates the experience of savoring Asiago is the right wine pairing. The harmonious blend of Asiago and wine creates a symphony of flavors that is nothing short of gastronomic poetry.
I’ve always found the pairing of wine and cheese to be a delightful exploration of flavors.
Table of Contents
Understanding Asiago Cheese
Asiago cheese, hailing from the Veneto region of Italy, is a versatile and flavorful cheese that can be enjoyed in various forms.
From fresh Asiago (Asiago Pressato) to mature Asiago (Asiago d’allevo), each type brings a distinct flavor profile to the table. Fresh Asiago is smooth and creamy, while the mature version is firmer and more robust, with a complex flavor that can range from sharp to sweet.
Understanding the nuances of Asiago cheese is the first step in mastering the art of wine pairing.
The key to a successful pairing lies in the balance of flavors. The wine should neither overpower the cheese nor be overshadowed by it. Instead, it should complement the cheese, enhancing its taste and texture.
Pairing Different Asiago with Fine Wine
Fresh Asiago has a smooth, creamy texture and a sweet, buttery flavor. It pairs well with light, fruity white wines like Riesling or Sauvignon Blanc.
On the other hand, mature Asiago is like parmigiano reggiano which can stand up to reds, with its crumbly texture and robust, sharp flavor, pairs beautifully with full-bodied red wines like Cabernet Sauvignon or Beaujolais.
I personally find pairing fresh Asiago with a crisp Chardonnay or mature Asiago with a spicy Syrah quite delightful!
Particularly, a study (1) titled “Wine and Cheese: Two Products or One Association? A New Method for Assessing Wine-Cheese Pairing” emphasizes the importance of multiple tastings or “multi-intake” evaluations. It suggests that our perception and appreciation of a wine-cheese pairing can evolve over successive sips and bites, especially for fruity, woody, and spicy-tasting wines. And the saltiness of asiago plays a positive role too!
hmm… does it mean the saltier the better?
Popular Pairing: Never go wrong!
Remember, the choice of wine can change based on the dish where Asiago is used. For instance, a pasta dish with Asiago might pair better with a different wine than a cheese platter would.
Now, let’s uncork the bottle for the top pairings:
Cabernet Sauvignon: This full-bodied red wine, with its notes of dark fruit, tobacco, and leather, is a classic pairing for Asiago. The bold flavors of Cabernet Sauvignon stand up well to the strong, nutty taste of mature Asiago. The tannins in the wine cut through the richness of the cheese, creating a harmonious balance.
Chardonnay: When pairing Asiago with a white wine, Chardonnay is a commendable choice. Its fuller body and notes of apple, butter, and vanilla meet Asiago’s flavor with a complementary richness. The creaminess of the cheese and the wine’s buttery undertones make for a delightful pairing.
Prosecco: The aged versions of Asiago pair surprisingly well with a fruity, off-dry Prosecco. The effervescence of this sparkling wine adds a refreshing contrast to the dense texture of the cheese.
