Michigan Made Wine, Beer and Cheese Pairings

At a delicious event put on by the United Dairy Industry of Michigan a few weeks ago, I was able to learn about some great wine/beer pairings with Michigan made cheeses. I instantly thought of my food-loving readers and just knew I had to share the knowledge I gained so you all can throw a fun “Michigan Made: Wine, Beer and Cheese” party this summer! {Because to me, this sounds like the perfect excuse for a party!}

I know I am so excited to really apply my knowledge once this baby comes. In the meantime, I did have a tiny sip of each for research purposes 😉

The event took place a Reserve, a foodie haven/restaurant located in downtown Grand Rapids, and featured wine selections by Linda Jones, executive director of the Michigan Grape & Wine Industry Council and beer and cheese pairings by Michigan “beervangelist” Fred Bueltmann {check out his sweet book, Beervangelist’s Guide to the Galaxy: A Philosophy of Food & Drink}.

It was so neat to hear how each complemented each other on a more scientific level, and then taste for ourselves. It really is astounding how the right pairing brings out the best in each item.

Here’s the rundown of what we ate/drank. Make sure to Pin this off for your next Michigan Made party!

Cheese: Caciocavallo from S Serra Cheese Company

Slight tanginess and fruitiness, like a robust cottage cheese packed into a semi-hard, crumbly bite.

Beer: Paleooza from New Holland Brewing

A classic American Pale Ale, with Michigan grown, cascade hops. Bright hoppiness and pleasant aromatics framed with balancing sweetness of pale malts.

Wine: Blanc de Blanc from L. Mawby

A sparkling wine made from chardonnay grapes with spiced apple aromas and a crisp, zesty finish.

~~~~~~~~~~

Cheese: Appenzeller from Tirell Farmstead Specialties

Funky, nutty character with dry finish and low sweetness.  Springy texture that releases as the cheese coats your palate.

Beer: Monkey King Saison from New Holland Brewing 

A soft, medium body saison with subtle pepper character and fruity undertones.

Wine: Riesling from St. Julian

Aromas of citrus, stone fruit, and honey are followed by flavors of apricot, tangerine, and cream, along with a slight mineral edge. Acidity and sweetness are nicely balanced on the palate,

~~~~~~~~~~

{Personally, this was my absolute favorite pairing!}

Cheese: Raclette from Leelanau Cheese

Earthy tones, light creaminess and silky notes of creamy sweetness with pleasant funkiness.

Beer: Solitude from Brewery Vivant

Deep mahogany in color, malt forward, with hints of caramel, pear & raisin.

Wine: Pinot Noir from 2 Lads

Ripe strawberry, soft cherry, violet and vanilla bean appear on the nose. Bright mid-palate cherry brings a light body to the wine with black pepper notes, and subtle cinnamon. Supple tannins make for a smooth finish with good balanced acidity.

~~~~~~~~~~

Cheese: Sharp White Cheddar from Farm Country Cheese

Mature, distinctive with a pleasing bite.

Beer: Crooked Tree IPA from Dark Horse Brewing

The Crooked Tree is heavily dry hopped to give it a big aroma of pine and citrus. The flavors are big, yet very balanced between fresh hops and malt.

Wine: Pinot Grigio from Blustone Vineyard

Cool fermentation builds fruit while minimally invasive techniques allow the natural acidity to shine through. Intense peach flavors create a clean finish.

~~~~~~~~~~

Cheese: Bridgewater from Zingerman’s Creamery

Rich cheese with tanginess, mineral character and green peppercorn.

Beer: White Hatter  from New Holland Brewing 

Flavorfully blends the soft malt, fruity esters and delicate spicing of a Belgian White with hoppy citrus notes of an IPA. Pleasant hints of orange are framed with chamomile, coriander and grains of paradise.

Wine: Kerner from Left Foot Charley

A crispy dry wine with characteristics somewhere between a Riesling and a pinot blanc. Feint floral aromas with a citrus snap.

Learn more about Michigan cheese and dairy products on the Milk Means More website | Facebook | Twitter and Pinterest.

P.S. This is not sponsored in any way by Michigan Dairy, or anyone involved in the Michigan beer/wine industry. I just loved my experience and wanted to share!

What are your favorite local beer, wine and cheese pairings?