Wine and crackers with Grana Padano

Grana Padano, a hard and aged Italian cheese with a granular texture and nutty flavour, pairs well with a variety of wines and crackers. Here are four wine types and three cracker options that generally complement Grana Padano:

Wine Pairings:

• Barolo: This robust and full-bodied red wine, made from Nebbiolo grapes in the Piedmont region of Italy, can stand up to the intense flavours of aged Grana Padano. Its tannins and structure make it a classic pairing.
• Barbera: A medium to full-bodied red wine like Barbera, known for its vibrant acidity and red fruit flavours, can provide a nice contrast to the nuttiness of Grana Padano.
• Amarone della Valpolicella: This powerful and rich red wine from the Veneto region is often made with partially dried grapes, resulting in concentrated flavours that complement the intensity of Grana Padano.
• Soave: A crisp and dry white wine like Soave, made from Garganega grapes, can offer a refreshing palate cleanse between bites of Grana Padano.

Cracker Pairings:

• Grainy Mustard and Seed Crackers: Crackers with mustard seeds or various seeds provide a crunchy texture and additional flavour elements that complement the nuttiness of Grana Padano.
• Rye Crisps: Rye crisps have a sturdy texture and a slightly earthy flavour that pairs well with the rich and aged profile of Grana Padano.
• Fig and Walnut Crackers: Crackers with the sweetness of figs and the nuttiness of walnuts add a delightful contrast to the cheese, enhancing the overall tasting experience.

When serving Grana Padano, you can also include some honey, balsamic glaze, or fresh fruits like sliced pears or grapes to further enhance the pairing and add complexity to the cheese board.