This month we'd like to raise a glass in toast to the Oregon Cheesemakers that make Oregon wines taste so good, because the only thing that makes Oregon wine better is Oregon craft made cheese.

Did you know?

Cheese consumption predates recorded history, with scholars believing it began as early as 8000 BC, when sheep were first domesticated.

"What cheese should I pair with what wine?"

The best wine to pair with cheese depends on the cheese's style and texture, though crisp white and sparkling wines generally offer the most versatile matches but there are some solid guide lines that we use when pairing cheese and wine.

Quick Pairing Guide by Cheese Type

Soft and Creamy Cheeses (Brie, Camembert, Goat Cheese):
Pinot Blanc & Sauvignon Blanc: The bright acidity cuts through rich creaminess. Sparkling Wine: Bubbles act as a palate cleanser for high-fat textures. Pinot Noir: A light-bodied red that won't overwhelm delicate flavors

Hard and Aged Cheeses (Cheddar, Parmesan, Manchego):
Cabernet Sauvignon or Bordeaux: Bold tannins match the intense, savory proteins of aged cheddar. Spanish and Italian Reds naturally complement regional sheep and hard cow cheeses like Manchego or Pecorino. Chardonnay: An oaked, buttery white works well with nutty, crystalline cheddars

Blue Cheeses (Stilton, Gorgonzola):
Sweet Dessert or Port Style Wines: The high sugar and rich body balance the heavy salt and sharp punch of blue cheese.

Mythbuster

For those of you who think you can't eat cheese, most people with lactose intolerance can comfortably enjoy a small amount of dairy. Those with mild lactose malabsorption may be able to have a full glass of milk, which contains 12 grams of lactose, in one sitting. Those with moderate lactose intolerance can likely handle an ounce of cheese or a cup of yogurt without symptoms.

Dairy products can play an important role in your diet and overall health because of their calcium and vitamin D. These nutrients support strong bones. If you have lactose intolerance but can handle, consider having some low-lactose dairy products to keep calcium and vitamin D levels at healthy levels such as yogurt, cottage cheese, hard cheeses such as Swiss and Cheddar or soft cheese such as Ricotta cheeses.

Shared by one of our favorite club members, Janie Goldenberg; check out this great chart on how much lactose is in each type of cheese - you might color yourself surprised!

September is Oregon Cheese month so...Say Cheese!

What are your favorite wine and cheese pairings? Drop us an email or hop on social media and share with #cellar503 and we'll be sure to add your suggestions to our tasting notes! Continue the celebration all month long by exploring the Oregon Cheese Trail and get your tickets for The Wedge happening September 26th in Portland!