Top 10 Charcuterie Pairings with Local San Diego Wines & Brews
San Diego is known for its bold coastal cuisine, vibrant food culture, and award-winning craft beverages. As highlighted by SanDiego.org, it’s a city that thrives on culinary innovation—which makes it the perfect backdrop for charcuterie and wine experiences that wow both guests and Instagram feeds.
At Le Petite Plates, we believe every grazing table should tell a story—and that story tastes even better with the right local pairing.
Here are ten expert-crafted charcuterie pairings that celebrate the best of San Diego wines and brews.
1. Triple Cream Brie + Chardonnay from Temecula Valley
A buttery triple cream Brie is beautifully offset by a lightly oaked Temecula Valley Chardonnay. The wine’s acidity and citrus notes cut through the cheese’s richness for a refined, crowd-pleasing combination.
Inspired by Sequoia Grove Winery, this pairing brings elegance to any occasion.
Explore our Artisan Selections for cheese and wine combinations like this.
2. Prosciutto + West Coast IPA
Silky, salty prosciutto demands a bold, hoppy beer. A West Coast IPA—like those from Modern Times or Belching Beaver—brings bitterness and citrus to the mix, cutting through the fat and refreshing the palate.
Inspired by This on Lemon8 explains how West Coast brews can elevate grazing experiences with contrast and brightness.
3. Aged Manchego + Syrah from San Pasqual Valley
Nutty, savory Manchego pairs seamlessly with a bold Syrah, particularly from San Pasqual Valley. The wine’s peppery, dark fruit notes echo the cheese’s aged depth.
Crushed Grape Chronicles recommends Syrah for firm, complex cheeses like Manchego—especially at wine-focused events.
Find this pairing on our Signature Charcuterie Boards.
4. Goat Cheese + Rosé from Ramona Valley
Fresh goat cheese, garnished with herbs or edible flowers, complements a chilled Ramona Valley rosé. It’s light, floral, and perfect for springtime showers and brunch-style celebrations.
See how Gelson’s layers California produce and soft cheese for sun-soaked tablescapes.
5. Calabrese Salami + Amber Ale
Spicy Calabrese salami calls for a malty Amber Ale, like those brewed at Ballast Point or Coronado Brewing. The sweetness of the ale balances the heat, delivering a bold yet smooth bite.
Pair with marinated olives and roasted almonds for added depth.
6. Herb-Crusted Havarti + Sauvignon Blanc
Creamy Havarti with a rosemary or dill crust is a perfect match for an herbaceous Sauvignon Blanc from Temecula. The wine’s acidity brightens up the richness of the cheese, creating balance.
Complement with sugar snap peas, pickled onions, or artichoke hearts.
7. Bresaola + Belgian-Style Saison
Lean, air-dried bresaola meets its match in a San Diego saison like Societe Brewing’s The Harlot. The beer’s dry, spicy profile enhances the beef’s delicate flavor.
Ideal for formal tastings and intimate gatherings.
8. Smoked Gouda + Cabernet Sauvignon from Fallbrook
Rich, smoky Gouda benefits from a structured Cabernet Sauvignon—and Fallbrook vineyards deliver the depth and tannins needed to match the cheese’s flavor.
Add dried cherries or dark grapes to elevate both presentation and profile.
9. Blue Cheese + Imperial Stout
Bold blue cheese stands strong beside an Imperial Stout, such as AleSmith’s Speedway Stout. The beer’s coffee and chocolate notes soften the cheese’s tang, creating a decadent contrast.
Top with toasted walnuts or serve with dark chocolate on the side.
10. Fresh Mozzarella + Hazy Pale Ale
Mild mozzarella needs something refreshing—like a citrusy, hazy pale ale from Pure Project or North Park Beer Co. This combination is light, playful, and universally enjoyable.
Perfect for casual grazing tables, garden parties, and beach weddings.
Crafting Charcuterie Pairings That Tell a Story
At Le Petite Plates, our boards do more than look beautiful—they tell your story through California’s best artisan ingredients, thoughtful layout, and beverage curation.
We proudly serve:
- Weddings, corporate events, and private gatherings
- All of San Diego County, including La Jolla, Del Mar, and Gaslamp
- Events that demand flavor-forward, camera-ready experiences
Explore more of our work:
Book a Tasting or Custom Event Design
Let us pair your next gathering with flavor, art, and local flair.
Phone: (619) 244-8851
Email: jbhustoft@gmail.com
Website: www.lepetiteplates.com
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