Spain on your table

Manchego Cheese & Spanish Wine: The Best Pairings

Posted on by Jamones sin Fronteras
29
Jul

Few combinations in the culinary world are as satisfying as cheese and wine — and when it comes to Spanish flavors, Manchego cheese and Spanish wine are a match made in heaven. Whether you’re hosting a party, creating a charcuterie board, or just indulging yourself, here’s how to pair Manchego cheese with the perfect Spanish wines.

 

What is Manchego Cheese?

Manchego is a firm, buttery sheep’s milk cheese from the La Mancha region of Spain. Aged anywhere from 3 months to over a year, it develops nutty, slightly tangy flavors and a creamy texture that becomes sharper and more complex with age.

 

Manchego Cheese Cured

Choosing the Right Wine

Here are some classic pairings based on the age of your Manchego:

Young Manchego (3–6 months)

With a milder, creamier flavor:
🍷 Verdejo — A crisp, citrusy white from Rueda.
🍷 Cava — Sparkling Spanish wine with refreshing bubbles.

Semi-Cured Manchego (6–9 months)

More pronounced flavor and a firmer texture:
🍷 Albariño — Aromatic and lightly floral.
🍷 Rosado (Rosé) — A fresh and versatile choice.

 

Aged Manchego (12+ months)

Sharp, nutty, and crumbly:
🍷 Tempranillo (Rioja) — A bold red with notes of cherry and spice.
🍷 Sherry (Amontillado or Oloroso) — Rich and nutty to match the intensity.

spanish gourmet charcuterie board

Building the Perfect Board

To make the experience even better, add:

  • Jamon Iberico or Serrano

  • Spanish olives

  • Almonds and figs

  • Crusty bread

 

Need inspiration? Check out this Instagram post for a beautiful example of a Spanish charcuterie board in action!

Final Thoughts

Manchego and Spanish wine bring out the best in each other. Whether you go light and crisp or deep and bold, there’s a perfect wine to enhance your cheese. Cheers — or as they say in Spain, ¡Salud!

Jamones sin Fronteras