Discover the Perfect Alpine Pairing: Savoie Wines and Artisan Cheeses

We’re excited to bring a little taste of the French Alps to you with two new wines from the Savoie  region, both of which are perfect for pairing with some of the region’s most iconic cheeses. These wines are all about celebrating the flavours of the mountains, and there's no better way to enjoy them than alongside some rich, delicious cheeses.

Savoie is a region known for its breathtaking mountains, crisp air, and rich culinary traditions. The cool climate and unique Alpine terroir produce wines that are fresh, vibrant, and full of character. These wines, especially the whites, are renowned for their minerality and lively acidity, making them ideal for pairing with rich, creamy cheeses like Reblochon and Raclette. It's all about contrast and harmony! 

With our partner Iciar now running his shop inside Whelehans Wines, we’ve become a true destination for lovers of fine wine and food. Iciar offers a fantastic selection of authentic Alpine cheeses like Reblochon, Raclette, and Beaufort, along with delicious charcuterie, French pastries, and fresh bread. Paired with our carefully chosen Savoie wines, you’ll enjoy an experience that feels like you’re savouring the best of the French Alps—right here in our shop.

Introducing Our Two New Savoie Wines

Dry white wine with a pale yellow robe, offering floral and mineral aromas of gunflint, grapefruit, citrus and lychee. On the palate, it is airy, balanced, and fresh, with a traditional slight sparkle, characteristic of wines from Apremont. A Typical “vin de soif” from the Savoie Region, Light, slightly fizzy and refreshing

Domaine Les 13 Lunes, Apremont, 2023 
10.5%, €25

To complement these fantastic wines, Julien from Iciar has carefully selected three of the best cheeses from the Alps:

1. Reblochon
   Soft and creamy, Reblochon is a classic cheese from the Savoie region. Its rich, nutty flavour is a perfect match for the light, refreshing notes of Apremont wine, offering an indulgent yet well-balanced pairing. For those who prefer something with a bit more depth, Reblochon also goes wonderfully with a more structured wine like the cuveé Ami-Amis, bringing out the complexity of both

   Tips: Enjoy Reblochon at room temperature to get the most out of its creamy, nutty flavour. The slightly fizzy Apremont keeps this pairing light and balanced.
   
   

2. Raclette
   A semi-firm cheese known for its meltability, Raclette is a must-try if you want a true Alpine experience. Traditionally melted over potatoes or bread, its gooey texture and mild flavour are enhanced by the crisp, fizzy Apremont. The wine refreshes the palate, keeping you ready for that next bite of melty cheese.

   Tips: Melt the Raclette over potatoes or crusty bread for a true Alpine dish, and pair it with a chilled glass of Apremont to cut through the richness.
   
   

3. Beaufort
   This firmer, more complex cheese is often considered one of the best Alpine cheeses. With its slightly nutty, fruity notes, Beaufort will pair wonderfully with our Ami-Amis, Savoie AOC, a more structured wine that brings out the best in this cheese. The combination is rich, elegant, and perfect for those who appreciate a more sophisticated pairing.

   Tips: Slice the Beaufort thinly on a cheese board or melt it into a fondue Savoyarde. Pair it with a slightly warmer Savoie AOC to bring out the full flavours of both the cheese and wine.

The pairing of Savoie wines with these traditional Alpine cheeses offers an authentic taste of the French Alps, right here at Whelehans Wines. Stop by and see us for a tasting, or grab a bottle and some cheese to recreate your own Alpine feast at home!