Wine and Nut Pairings

Image courtesy of Grant Cochrane /

Wine pairs beautifully with nuts and cheese, here are some combination ideas that bring out the flavors and work well together:

• Light zesty wines such as Sauvignon Blanc, Albarino, Pinot Grigio and Sancerre are great with pistachios and cashews, the brightness in the wine bringing out the undertones of the nuts and visa versa.

• Sparkling wines and almonds are a real hit, whether toasted, raw, or marcona style.

• Rich, fruity whites like Chardonnay and Ligonier, pair perfectly with hazelnuts and hazelnut paste with a touch of honey.

• Rose and walnuts are delightful (or make walnut bread with lavender for a really perfect match) and pecans go any which way with lighter reds such as Pinot Noir.

• Pretty much any roasted nut is going to bring out something great in a rich aromatic, heady red wine as there are so many nut-like elements in these wines.