Our Favorite Chardonnay Food Pairings

• Triple-cream cheese: These cream-enriched, high-fat cow’s milk cheeses have a texture like whipped frosting and a luxurious richness that work well with Chardonnay’s plush, rounded mouthfeel.

• Brie: This semisoft cow’s milk cheese has a buttery, spreadable texture and mushroom scent. A velvety Chardonnay complements that supple, spreadable interior and the Brie doesn’t overwhelm the wine.

• Monterey Jack: California’s iconic table cheese is mild, mellow and a great melter. Try it on a grilled cheese sandwich with a glass of Chardonnay. The wine’s acidity and minerality help balance the buttery sandwich.

Note: We might be a little biased, but we firmly believe what grows together, goes together. Look for cheeses made with Real California Milk. You’ll taste the difference while supporting local dairy farmers. That’s a win in our book!

California Summer Grapes Cheeseboard

One you’ve mastered the basics of wine and cheese pairing, you’re ready to take your graze board game to the next level. We called in a favor from our friend, Sarah from The Delicious Life.

She’ll show you how to make this elaborate cheese board filled with California-grown goodness. It’s easier than you think!

Mac and Cheese with Fresh Peas, Cauliflower and Toasted Garlic Breadcrumbs

Creamy pastas and California Chardonnays are a match made in heaven. Fans of traditional Mac and Cheese will adore this elevated take on the comfort food classic.

Carrot Hummus with Spring Vegetable Crudites

We know what you’re thinking. “Carrot Hummus????” Yes, it’s a thing and you definitely need to try it. Blending sweet California carrots, chickpeas and tahini produces a sumptuous spread with a captivating new taste. Serve with your favorite locally grown vegetables and crispy crackers. 

Pro tip: Try pairing this veggie tray with an unoaked Chardonnay. Fermenting the wine in stainless steel produces light, fresh flavors that pair perfectly with this easy appetizer. 

Coconut Shrimp Tortas

Looking for a simple, yet refined meal? Look no further. These Coconut Shrimp Tortas from our friend Kate at Hola Jalapeno are fast, filling and fabulous. 

Kate suggests enjoying a glass of your favorite California Chardonnay while prepping this easy sandwich. We thoroughly agree. 

Tuna Poke Bowl

Too hot to cook? Try this easy Poke Bowl recipe. It’s packed with sushi grade ahi-tuna, crisp edamame and creamy avocado. Pair this fresh summer dish with a California Chardonnay for the ultimate palate pleaser.

Walnut Kale Pesto

Ready for your next obsession? Introducing Walnut Kale Pesto. Meg from This Mess is Ours suggests making a double batch because it’s delicious on, well, pretty much everything.

Note: This recipe was originally featured in the Wine Country Table Cookbook. It’s basically a love letter to the Golden State, filled with gorgeous images, delicious recipes and wine pairings. Don’t have a copy yet? Get yours here.

Pea Whole Wheat Couscous Risotto

Our friend Erin from Naturally Ella created this inspired take on traditional risotto using whole wheat couscous. Bright spring peas and earthy wheat flavors are a perfect match for a light, bright California Chardonnay. 

Dungeness Crab and Avocado Tostadas

We know. Wine isn’t the obvious choice to pair with these heart healthy tostadas, but California-grown avocados and Dungeness crab pair so beautifully with your favorite Chardonnay.

Zuppa Toscana Soup

Move over, Olive Garden. Our friend Meg from This Mess is Ours shared her recipe for Zuppa Toscana and we’re in love. Meg paired this rich, creamy soup with a light, floral California Chardonnay. We suggest you follow suit.

Spiced Apple Thyme Gouda Hand Pies

Picnic food, reimagined, courtesy of our friend Aida at Salt and Wind. We’re fantasizing about enjoying these Hand Pies while relaxing in the sun with a bottle of buttery California Chardonnay. Now that the menu has been settled, you’ll just need to decide whether you’d prefer to picnic on a sandy beach or in a mountain meadow.