We think wine and cheese are a simple combination, but there are Northern Michigan wines that are perfect for pairing with cheese. Paired well together, wine and cheese are a portal into the sublime, so join us this month as we sip through some of the North’s finest cheese-friendly wines.

Black Star Farms 2011 Arcturos Barrel Aged Chardonnay

Textbook aromas of apple and pear take on spicy vanilla nuances from time in the barrel, giving the wine a rich texture and length on the palate.

Cheese pairings: Brie, cambozola, Camembert

blackstarfarms.com

Blustone 2011 Late Harvest Riesling

Ripe yellow orchard fruits dominate this sweet and sexy late harvest riesling that is finely balanced with enough acid to keep the finish fresh.

Cheese pairings: raclette, Gorgonzola dolce latte, Muenster

blustonevineyards.com

Bowers Harbor Vineyards 2012 Pinot Blanc Twyris

This freshly bottled pinot blanc is full of flashy tropicalia and citrus hints that are anchored in a luxurious mouth feel that ends crisp.

Cheese pairings: Ossau Iraty, Taleggio, Gruyère

bowersharbor.com

Brys Estate 2011 Pinot Noir

Great definition in its pronounced aromas of ripe black cherry and spices. An exceptionally ripe vintage gives the wine additional texture and viscosity.

Cheese pairings: Camembert, Gouda, aged chèvre

brysestate.com

Chateau Chantal Cerise Noir NV

Partially fermented pinot meunier and merlot are blended with local cherry brandy and barrel aged for 11 months to achieve a Northern interpretation of Portugal’s finest. Rich flavors of dark cherry compote and cocoa.

Cheese pairings: Stilton, Roquefort, aged Cheddar

chateauchantal.com