What wine to choose with raclette?

Which wine to choose with raclette?

As winter sets in, evenings with friends become warmer, and raclette becomes a must for convivial meals. Melting, generous and full of character, it naturally calls for a good glass of wine. But how do you choose between cheese, charcuterie, potatoes and condiments? Here are our tips for finding the perfect companion for your next raclette.

White wines for balance and freshness

Contrary to popular belief, dry white wines are raclette's best allies. Their freshness, acidity and minerality help to lighten the richness of the melted cheese.

Our suggestions:

• Apremont (Savoie): lively, floral and mineral, it goes perfectly with Savoy cheeses.

• Roussette de Savoie: fuller on the palate, but still balanced.

• Chignin-Bergeron: more expressive, it's ideal if you like fleshier whites.

• Pinot Gris or Riesling (Alsace ): for a more aromatic version, with a touch of elegance.

• Unwooded Chardonnay: ideal if you prefer a rounder wine without heaviness.

And if you prefer reds?

If you prefer a red wine, opt for fruity, supple varietals with little tannin. Tannins don't go well with processed cheese, as they harden the flavors and texture.

Preferred varietals:

• Gamay (Beaujolais, Côtes du Forez, Auvergne): fruity, light and thirst-quenching.

• Pinot Noir (Alsace, Burgundy, red Sancerre): supple, fine and delicate.

• Mondeuse (Savoy): for lovers of slightly more rustic reds, with character without excess.

Original ideas to surprise your guests

Want to think outside the box? Here are a few more daring pairings that work wonders with raclette:

• Orange wine: produced by maceration of white grapes with their skins, this type of wine offers powerful aromas and a fine structure that stand up to melted cheese.

• Vin oxydatif du Jura (such as Côtes du Jura or Château-Chalon): their complexity and nutty notes enhance rich raclettes or those with mushrooms.

• Sparkling wines: a Crémant from Savoie or the Loire adds tension and a refreshing effect on the palate.

Some raclette variants to consider

• Raclette with truffles or mushrooms: try a more aromatic white (Viognier, Jura Chardonnay) or a more structured red wine (Trousseau, Mondeuse).

• Raclette made with raw or sheep's milk: accompany with a fuller-bodied wine, such as a dry Chenin or a mature Chardonnay.

• Smoked or spicy charcuterie: a slightly spicy red (fresh Syrah, Gamay) may be a good option.

Raclette is a warm dish that calls for a wine capable of counterbalancing the fat of the cheese while sublimating its richness. Dry, mineral or slightly aromatic whites are the ideal companions, but light reds can also hit the spot. To vary the pleasures, dare atypical pairings such as an orange wine or a brut effervescent.

Our watchword: pleasure and conviviality over a good glass, with a wine cellar that keeps your bottles at the ideal temperature.