Trying to make a great cheese and wine pairing can be as difficult as getting your cat to hang out amicably with the neighbor’s dog. Never fear — here are some simple guidelines to make you the “go-to” person in your circle of friends for matching great cheesy comestibles with smashing wines! Generally, these guidelines simply match the dominant flavor of the wine to the dominant flavor of the cheese…but you may sometimes find that it is the contrasting flavors that are most memorable!

Keep in mind that what matters most is that the cheese doesn’t overpower the wine and that the wine doesn’t overpower the cheese. A happy, somewhat equal union on the palate is generally most pleasing. The last two guidelines may sound a little strange…but you haven’t lived until you’ve had sautéed mushrooms and Teleme on toasted brioche with Champagne, or broiled figs and Stilton with ruby port!

What is vegetarian wine?
Most wines are made using isinglass, a form of gelatine derived from fish so are unsuitable for vegetarians or vegans.

Where can I get vegetarian wine?
This guide provides a list of wines that are believed to be suitable for both vegetarians and vegans, most of which are available in off licences and supermarkets in Ireland.

For full details and for answers to frequently asked questions, see the Vegan and Vegetarian Wine Guide on the web at: http://vegans.frommars.org/