Which wine to choose to accompany a raclette? Our advice for a perfect match
The key takeaway: Raclette, with its rich, melting flavors, calls for wines that can balance the richness of the cheese and enhance the charcuterie. A light and fruity red wine , such as Dorrance Rouge Cinsault , will bring freshness and suppleness, creating a beautiful balance with the dish's richness. For those who prefer white, Luma Grillo —lively and aromatic—is a perfect match for raclette thanks to its mineral and lemony notes that accentuate the deliciousness of the melted cheese.
Ah, raclette! That comforting dish that warms hearts and taste buds on winter evenings. As passionate sommeliers, we've traveled the world's vineyards in search of the perfect pairings to enhance this iconic dish. Today, we're sharing our secrets for choosing the ideal wine to accompany your next raclette.
🤓 White wine or red wine for raclette?
White wine Red wine
The delicate art of pairing wine and raclette
Raclette, originating from the canton of Valais in Switzerland, has become a favorite dish in France. In 2021, it was estimated that over 40,000 tons of raclette cheese were consumed annually in France. Choosing the right wine to accompany this savory dish is a true art. It requires finding the perfect balance between the flavors of the cheese, the melting texture of the potatoes, and the notes of the cured meats.
Our experience as wine explorers has taught us that the choice of wine depends largely on the type of raclette you're preparing . A classic raclette with Savoy cheese won't call for the same wines as a more elaborate version with a variety of cheeses and fine charcuterie. Here's a summary table of possible pairings:
| Raclette type | Recommended wine |
|---|---|
| Classic (Savoy cheese) | Dry white wine from Savoy |
| Gourmet (various cheeses) | White Burgundy wine |
| Fine charcuterie | Light red wine from Beaujolais |
White wines, the kings of raclette
Our journey through the vineyards convinced us that white wines remain the best companions for raclette . Their freshness and vibrancy help to balance the richness and creaminess of the melted cheese. Here are our recommendations:
- White wines from Savoy : Jacquère, Roussette, Altesse
- White Burgundy wines : Saint-Véran, Mâcon-Villages, Pouilly-Fuissé
- White wines from the Swiss Valais : Petite Arvine, Fendant
During our visit to the vineyards of the Rhône Valley, we discovered aromatic white wines that pair wonderfully with a more sophisticated raclette. Try a Saint-Péray or a white Crozes-Hermitage for a surprising tasting experience.
Dare to pair red wine with raclette
Although less conventional, pairing red wine with raclette can be just as delicious . The key lies in choosing a light and fruity wine, low in tannins, that won't overpower the cheese's flavors. Our quest for the best pairings led us to these gems:
- The red wines of Beaujolais: Morgon, Saint-Amour, Juliénas
- Light red wines from the Loire: Saumur-Champigny, Sancerre red
- Some Pinot Noir wines from Burgundy: Côtes de Nuits-Villages, Beaune
During our stay in Beaujolais, we were captivated by Gamay's ability to enhance the melting texture of potatoes and bring out the flavors of charcuterie. A Morgon, with its velvety palate, will add a touch of indulgence to your raclette.
Expert tips for a successful tasting
Throughout our wine-tasting adventures, we've gathered a few tips to perfect the wine and raclette pairing:
Serving temperature is crucial . Serve your white wines between 10 and 12°C, and your reds slightly chilled, around 14-16°C. This will allow you to appreciate all their aromatic nuances without being overwhelmed by the alcohol.
Don't hesitate to mix things up during the meal. Start with a crisp white wine to whet the appetite, then move on to a light red when you get to the charcuterie. This progression of flavors will delight your guests and spark conversation.
Finally, remember that raclette is above all a time for sharing. The best wine will always be the one that everyone at the table agrees on. So, trust your palate and those of your guests to find the perfect pairing that will make your raclette evening an unforgettable moment.
