If you are looking for easy cheese and wine pairings that feel festive without being fussy, you are in the right place. Whether you are hosting a holiday gathering, setting out pre-dinner snacks, or planning a cozy night in, these cheese and wine pairings use approachable Trader Joe’s cheeses paired with crowd-pleasing wines. Each pairing is simple to assemble, budget-friendly, and designed to impress without overwhelming your menu.
This article was originally written and published in November 2021 and has since been updated and recirculated for 2025.
5 Best Cheese and Wine Pairings to Try This Holiday Season
Unexpected Cheddar & Sparkling Wine
It is hard to beat Trader Joe’s Unexpected Cheddar paired with sparkling wine. The sharp, nutty flavor of the cheese plays beautifully with bubbles, making this an instant crowd-pleaser.
For a celebratory splurge, Veuve Clicquot is always a classic. For something more budget-friendly, Carmen Brut is a reliable favorite. And do not overlook cava — it is an excellent, often more affordable sparkling option that works just as well for holiday entertaining. Check out more of my favorite sparkling wines for under $40 here.
1,000 Day Old Gouda & Pinot Noir
Trader Joe’s 1,000 Day Aged Gouda is rich, caramelized, and deeply savory — the perfect match for a silky Pinot Noir.
To take this pairing up a notch, add a small jar of pepper jelly. The combination of wine, aged gouda, and a little heat makes this an excellent board to bring along if you are headed to a holiday party as a guest.
Triple Crème Brie & Pinot Grigio
Serve Trader Joe’s Triple Crème Brie at room temperature and pair it with raspberry preserves for a soft, luxurious bite. The richness of the cheese pairs beautifully with a crisp, refreshing Pinot Grigio.
Santa Margherita Pinot Grigio remains a go-to — it is versatile, easy to love, and makes a thoughtful hostess gift if you are attending a gathering this season.
Asiago with Rosemary & Olive Oil & Cabernet Sauvignon
This Asiago with Rosemary & Olive Oil is one of those cheeses that feels instantly elevated. Serve it with grapes, crusty bread, and a bold Cabernet Sauvignon for a cozy, satisfying pairing.
This combination works especially well for casual evenings by the fire or as a heartier option on a larger holiday spread.
Chèvre with Honey & Rosé
Trader Joe’s Honey Goat Cheese is delicious on its own, but it truly shines when drizzled with a little hot honey. Pair it with a dry, refreshing rosé for a lighter, unexpected option that still feels festive. For a still rosé option, this one is my go-to.
Rosé is not just for summer — it is a wonderful choice for holiday gatherings, especially when you want something bright and versatile.
Frequently Asked Questions About Cheese and Wine Pairings
What wine pairs best with cheese?
It depends on the cheese, but generally sparkling wines, Pinot Noir, and crisp white wines are the most versatile options for cheese and wine pairings. Here are some of my favorite red wines under $30 and white wines under $30.
How many cheeses should I serve on a wine and cheese board?
Three to five cheeses is ideal — a mix of soft, aged, and bold varieties keeps the board interesting without overwhelming guests.
Should cheese be served cold or at room temperature?
Most cheeses are best served at room temperature. Remove them from the fridge about 30–60 minutes before serving for optimal flavor.
Final Thoughts
These cheese and wine pairings are proof that holiday entertaining does not have to be complicated to feel special. With just a few thoughtfully paired cheeses and bottles, you can create a spread that’s welcoming, festive, and easy to enjoy — whether you are hosting a crowd or savoring a quiet evening at home. Keep this list bookmarked for the season, and you will always have a go-to pairing ready to pour.
