A cracking food and wine match: Jo Pithon ‘Les Pepinieres’ 2005 & baked Vacherin Mont D`Or

Nothing like Christmas to justify pulling out some favourite wines and tucking into fine food.  I was particularly taken with three food and wine matches over the holidays which I thought I’d share with you. 

The first is Jo Pithon Anjou Les Pepinieres 2005 with baked thyme and garlic-studded Vacherin Mont D`Or (which I served with celery and Poilâne toast).  It made for a stonky (almost fondue-like) rustic starter for which the Pithon’s firm acidity was a good foil.

Check out the Vacherin recipe here.  As for the wine, Pithon’s vineyard was acquired by Domaine FL’s Philippe Fournier so this wine is no longer made, but a similarly powerful, well-structured dry oaked Chenin Blanc with a bit of development (to compliment the cheese) will do just as well.  Maybe Marc Angeli’s Ferme de la Sansonniere La Lune 2008, £16.50 at Artisan Wines  or Domaine Mosse Anjou Blanc 2007, £11.67 at Vinifera Boutique.

Watch out for wine and food match two on Tuesday.