The best Yquem / cheese matches

23 January 2012 Wine

A quick call for ideas to Yquem lovers on our Facebook & Twitter networks confirmed a well-known truth: Yquem is an ideal partner, much appreciated with cheese… but some cheeses are a better match than others.

The classic combination: blue cheeses

According to Marie Quatrehomme, best cheesemonger in France in 2000 and manager of the cheese shop that bears her name, Château d’Yquem with blue cheeses is a classic combination.

The noble mould in the cheeses (Penicillium roqueforti) enhances the aromas from the noble rot in Sauternes (Botrytis cinerea). Emmanuel Delmas, a French sommelier and blogger, adds that the smooth texture and extraordinary length of these cheeses on the palate make them an ideal foil for great Sauternes.

Consequently, cheeses like English Stilton and French Roquefort make a perfect accompaniment to this type of wine.

An original idea: Comté from the Jura

Sandrine Garbay, our cellarmaster, admits to a weakness for Comté.

Its spicy aromas with a touch of saltiness flatter the tastebuds and are highly complementary to the qualities of Yquem.

However, it is essential to choose an old Comté that has been aged for at least 24 months, as the aromas need to be well-developed to stand up to the powerful bouquet of Yquem.

In the absence of Yquem, partnering Comté cheese with Vin Jaune from the Jura is also a classic.

Other ideas to try

• An old Gouda from the Netherlands (see photo) with its cocoa and spice aromas (this cheese has a caramel-coated rind)
• Caruchon from the Aveyron
• Ossau Iraty from the Basque Country
• Parmesan
• Gorgonzola

Please tell us about your own experiences

The cheeses recommended in this post represent a non-exhaustive selection and, as Marie Quatrehomme says so well, you are bound to enjoy trying your own new matches. Please tell us about your own experiences in the “comments” section.

BONUS

• In this video clip, Marie Quatrehomme explains the best Sauternes/cheese matches, so you can learn more about her by clicking here
• A few simple recipes to make at home on the “Sweet Bordeaux” blog : Ossau Irraty cheese, dried apricot salsa, green pepper confit, and argan oil – Pear and Roquefort verrine – Salade d’endives au roquefort