Gordon Ramsay and Nataniël are back, and this time Checkers’ cheese & wine selection was put to the test.
Gordon Ramsay, known as one of the world’s toughest food critics, could immediately taste that signature Sangiovese grape that makes their Chianti so delicious!
And of course, Nataniël raves about all the speciality cheeses that can be found in Checkers’ Cheese World.
We thought we’d put two of their best to the test and found a delectable pairing for you to try at home – the Italian Sensi Risalto Chianti and the Lancewood Mozzarella.
Let’s explore these mouth-watering options a little bit further.
The wine:
Chianti was once the tabletop wine of Tuscany, Italy.
Back then, it could commonly be found in little Italian restaurants on red and white checked tablecloths by candlelight, and alongside popular favourites like a meaty spaghetti.
Today, this wine has become far more refined and sophisticated thanks to advances in culturing and the craft of winemaking.
The sweet, medium-bodied zest makes it a favourite for both new and seasoned wine enthusiasts.
Chianti wines are a palatable delight – meticulously crafted with a unique blend of Trebbiano and Malvasia white grapes, along with Sangiovese and Canaiolo red grapes.
Whilst considered dry, it offers a mouth-watering fruity flavour along with aromas of plum, cherry, coffee, vanilla, raspberry, spice, almonds, tobacco and strawberries.
Plus, you can enjoy great value for money when you buy a bottle for R64,99 from your nearest Checkers Wines of the World section!
The cheese:
Lancewood cheeses are a favourite amongst shoppers, with an addictive full flavour and creamy texture, making them distinct amongst their peers.
With award-winning taste cultivated from the free-range cows of the Garden Route, you’ll find excellence and superior quality in every bite.
The pairing:
The Chianti provides an ideal counterbalance to the nuttier, creamier cheeses, and therefore Lancewood Mozzarella is its ideal companion.
Soft and milky, it is delicious on top of most pizzas, melted over homemade pasta or browned within garlic pita bread.
Combine these Italian favourites with delicious Italian Chianti and you’ll certainly have an evening to remember!
Find out more about other pairings that best suit your favourite cheeses here, and learn more on the range of over 50 wines from 8 of the world’s leading wine-producing countries, exclusively from the Wine Route at Checkers.
More fabulous Checkers wine and cheese pairings include:
Italian Pirovano Pinot Grigio and Kasselshoop White Cheddar with Nettles
Fairview Blue Rock and sweet French Carillonade Bordeaux
Frontera Merlot from Chile with Healey’s Farmhouse Cheddar
Diamond Ridge Sauvignon Blanc and Wyke Farms’ extra-mature Cheddar