Wine for Raclette

Frequently asked questions

Which white grape varieties work best when eating raclette?

The best white grape varieties to pair with raclette include Chasselas, Pinot Gris, Riesling, and Sauvignon Blanc. Chasselas is considered the quintessential Swiss choice for this meal, offering a delicate minerality and subtle fruit notes that enhance the cheese’s rich creaminess without overpowering it. If you prefer a white wine with a bit more acidity, Pinot Gris and Riesling are excellent options because their refreshing acidity and aromatic complexity help cut through the heavy cheese, cleansing your palate between bites. Additionally, Sauvignon Blanc provides a lively contrast to the melted cheese and earthy potatoes, thanks to its zesty citrus and herbal undertones. Whichever you choose, these white wines are selected to balance the decadence of the traditional alpine dish.

Can you drink red wine with a raclette meal?

Yes, you can absolutely enjoy red wine with raclette, provided you select the right style. It is best to choose light-bodied red wines with low tannins to ensure they do not clash with the rich melted cheese. The top red grape varieties recommended for this alpine meal are Pinot Noir and Gamay. These specific varieties feature bright red fruit flavors and a gentle acidity that harmonise beautifully with both the creamy cheese and the cured meats traditionally served alongside it. Opting for these lighter, fruit-forward reds ensures your drink complements rather than overpowers the meal, making it an excellent choice for red wine enthusiasts hosting a cosy winter gathering.

Why is it important to choose a specific style of wine for raclette?

Choosing the right wine for raclette is important because of the rich, creamy texture and bold flavours of the melted cheese, as well as the variety of savoury side dishes that accompany it. A typical raclette feast includes a medley of meats, potatoes, and pickles. To make the dining experience enjoyable, you need a wine that can balance this decadence. The right bottle will offer either refreshing acidity to cut through the heavy, melted cheese and cleanse the palate, or delicate notes that enhance the flavours without overpowering them. Properly paired wines transform this traditional alpine meal into a true celebration of gourmet pleasure.

Are there any Riesling options in your curated collection for raclette?

Yes, the curated collection features high-quality Riesling options that pair beautifully with raclette. Among the listed bottles is the Louis Guntrum Oppenheimer Sacktrager Riesling Trockenbeerenauslese 1992 from the Rheinhessen region in Germany, priced at £151.54. Another German option is the Schloss Schonborn Hattenheimer Pfaffenberg Riesling Trocken, Erstes Gewachs 2003 from Rheingau, which is available for £120.34. Additionally, you can find the Lucien Albrecht Alsace AOC Riesling, Clos Himmelreich 2001 from France, priced at £55.20. These older vintage Rieslings are selected to provide the refreshing acidity and aromatic complexity needed to balance the rich cheese.

What French red wines are recommended on this page for pairing?

The collection offers a wide range of red wines from the Bourgogne region of France, which are ideal for pairing with raclette. These include Pinot Noir options such as the Domaine Aurelien Verdet Vosne Romanee AOC, Vieilles Vignes 2017 for £140.14 and the Domaine Jean Marc Boillot Volnay 1er Cru AOC Pitures 2008 for £116.14. For premium occasions, you can choose the Clos de Tart Grand Cru AOC 1999 for £408.00 or the Dominique Laurent Echezeaux Grand Cru AOC 2004 for £471.59. Other options include Pomerol, Gevrey Chambertin, and Chambolle Musigny bottles, which provide the bright fruit notes and gentle acidity needed for the meal.