Cheese-flavored snacks are the best kind of snacks, plain and simple. Some occasions just don’t call for that elaborate cheese and charcuterie board; after all, between the various types of cheese, meats, and crackers, plus the fruits, jams, and nuts that accompany them, your fancy cheese spread can end up costing you a pretty penny. After a long week at work, sometimes the best way to spend a Friday is curled up on the couch with a glass (er, bottle) of your favorite wine and a good ol’ bag of snacks. The snack aisle of your grocery store is like a cheese-flavored comfort zone — you know all the snacks by name, they’re always there waiting for you, and their consistency (and deliciousness) never let you down. Best of all? Pairing wine with cheese-flavored snacks only requires one simple stop at your local supermarket and generally runs you less than five bucks a pop. More money for more wine, #amirite?
Nacho Cheese Doritos – Cotes du Rhone
The earthy, garrigue-driven flavors of a Grenache-dominant blend, such as a Cotes du Rhone, flawlessly contrast with the light, spicy heat from the Nacho Cheese Doritos.
Goldfish – Pinot Noir
Honestly, what doesn’t go with Goldfish? These versatile little crackers are delicious with nearly everything. We happen to really love them with an earthy Oregon Pinot.
Cheez-Its – Cava
Pairing a bone-dry sparkler made in the methode champenoise, such as Cava, will pair gorgeously with salty Cheez-Its. The high-acid, bready notes complement the snack perfectly.
Cheetos – Chenin Blanc
These pungent poppers need a high-acid wine to cut through their intense flavors. A bottle of Chenin Blanc from the Loire Valley makes for a mouthwatering snack session.
Cheese Dippers – Pinot Gris
A lively Pinot Gris has the perfect balance of zippy acidity and stone fruit flavors to match this ultra-creamy cheese and biscuit-like breadsticks.
Sandwich Crackers – Macon Villages
The smooth, rounder texture of a lightly oaked Chardonnay pairs beautifully with the creamy cheese and slight sweetness in the crackers. As we all know, Burgundian Chardonnay can get crazy expensive. Look to examples from Macon for affordable, delicious juice.
Combos – Vinho Verde
This slightly effervescent white’s fizzy, fruit-forward characteristics are perfection with the salty, creamy flavors of Combos.
SunChips – Champagne
For the decadent cheese snack and wine pairing lover, this one’s for you. The yeasty notes of Champagne complement the wheaty, grainy flavors of Harvest Cheddar SunChips.
Sour Cream & Cheddar Ruffles – Gamay
The sour, fruit-forwardness of a natural Gamay from the Loire Valley contrasts with the tangy yet cheesy taste profile of the Ruffles.
