What to Know About Goat Cheese + Wine 🐐

We love cheese and wine but, until recently, didn’t explore the world of goat cheese to its fullest. For us, cheese was your traditional cows milk and goat was a thing of mystery. Once we tried it though perspectives changed. Now my charcuterie or grazing board wouldn’t be complete without it!

So… what is goat cheese and what makes it different?

The simple answer to this is cheese produced using goat’s milk. It is made in a process where raw milk is allowed to curdle then is drained and pressed. If you’ve ever tried goat cheese then you may be aware it has a slightly tangy flavor that comes from a higher concentration of fatty acids. And, it’s unique creamy texture comes from a lower amount of milk protein than cow’s milk (via Modern Farmer). We love how easy it is to spread over a soft slice of crostini.

What types of goat cheese should you look for?

We love crumbled goat cheese mixed in a farm-fresh salad, goat cheese logs smoothed over fresh bread, or a sliced goat cheese cheddar on crackers. There are many goat cheese varieties outside of this including brie, gouda, blue, and many others but this is how we most often use goat cheese in our home.

One of our favorite New England-based cheeses is from Vermont Creamery. Their Goat Cheese Logs come in a tasty collection of flavors from Herb Goat Cheese (our favorite) to Clover Blossom Honey and Smoky Pepper Jelly. Their flavors are all so unique and standout compared to many others we’ve tried. Plus, it’s always great to support a local business.

Undoubtedly, some of the tastiest cheese comes directly from the farm. It wouldn’t be a successful grocery trip if we didn’t pick up a container of Crumbled Goat Cheese from the team at Tendercrop Farms here in Massachusetts. Tossed with their fresh arugula, heirloom tomatoes, and a dash of dressing, your idea of a summertime salad will never be the same again (yes, we’re serious).

What type of wine pairs best with goat cheese?

Picked up your goat cheese and looking for a wine to go with it? Depending on the dish, we recommend reaching for a fresh, fruity, and acidic bottle. Possibly a crisp and acidic white from Loire like the Ohh! Poitou Sauvignon Blanc or even a bubbly like the Deligeroy Cremant de Loire Brut.

If white wine isn’t your thing then try a light and acidic Pinot Noir like the Louis Chavy Bourgogne or even even a Rose like the Bougrier Rose D’Anjou. There are also bolder pairings you could try in the red wine family if you’re looking to experiment with more complex flavors.

Though French wines and goat cheese are a match made in heaven, we also love an affordable bottle of Washington Chateau Ste Michelle Chardonnay or New Zealand Oyster Bay Sauvignon Blanc – both under $10.