Quince paste, known as dulce de membrillo in Spain, is a rich, sliceable fruit preserve made from quince, an old-world fruit prized for its floral aroma and sweet-tart flavor. Traditionally paired with Manchego cheese and wine, quince paste has long been enjoyed throughout Europe and is becoming increasingly popular on modern cheese and charcuterie boards.
At Johnson Estate Winery in Lake Erie Wine Country, quince has a long family history dating back generations. Today, the winery not only crafts house-made quince paste from estate-grown fruit, but also offers it for purchase in the tasting room and online store.
Quince trees (Cydonia oblonga) belong to the apple, or “pome,” family and are native to the Caucasus Mountains of Georgia, Armenia, and northern Iran. The fruit is typically apple- or pear-shaped with green skin that turns bright yellow as it ripens.
Unlike apples or pears, quince is usually too firm and tart to eat raw. However, when cooked, the fruit transforms dramatically. Its pale flesh softens and develops a beautiful ruby-red color along with a fragrant floral flavor that makes it ideal for jams, jellies, preserves, and quince paste.
Because quince is naturally high in pectin, it creates a thick, smooth texture perfect for slicing and serving alongside cheese or charcuterie boards.
Quince paste has a unique flavor that combines sweetness, tartness, and floral aromas with subtle notes reminiscent of apples, pears, and citrus. Its dense texture allows it to be sliced and served neatly on cheese boards or charcuterie platters.
The balance of fruitiness and acidity makes quince paste an excellent companion for both savory cheeses and crisp white wines. Many food lovers also enjoy quince paste as part of charcuterie boards or paired with crackers and cured meats.
To serve quince paste, gently loosen it from the jar using a small knife and place it on a plate, charcuterie board, or cheese tray. The paste will hold its shape and can easily be sliced into small portions.
In Spain, quince paste is traditionally paired with Manchego cheese, a firm sheep’s milk cheese with a slightly salty flavor. However, quince paste also complements a wide variety of cheeses ranging from sharp cheddars to creamy goat cheeses.
Quince paste pairs wonderfully with cheeses available throughout Western New York and Lake Erie Wine Country, including:
Local favorites recommended at Johnson Estate include cheeses from Reverie Creamery, including Gitane, Tom, and Palimino varieties.
The sweet-tart flavors of quince paste pair beautifully with a variety of wines. One favorite pairing at Johnson Estate Winery is estate-grown Vidal Blanc, whose bright fruit and acidity complement the floral richness of quince.
Quince paste also works well with:
Visitors to Johnson Estate Winery can purchase house-made quince paste directly from the winery tasting room or online store. Made from estate-grown quince harvested from the winery orchard, this traditional Spanish-style membrillo is crafted specifically to pair with wine, cheese, and charcuterie.
Quince paste reflects the agricultural traditions and culinary heritage that continue to shape Lake Erie Wine Country today. From historic orchards to handcrafted wine pairings, Johnson Estate continues to celebrate old-world flavors while offering visitors a unique tasting experience in Western New York.
Whether served with cheese, wine, crackers, or charcuterie, quince paste offers a delicious way to experience one of the region’s lesser-known orchard fruits.
Quince paste is made by slowly cooking quince fruit with sugar until it becomes thick, smooth, and sliceable.
Quince has a sweet-tart, floral flavor with notes similar to apple, pear, and citrus when cooked.
Manchego is the traditional pairing, but quince paste also pairs well with cheddar, Parmesan, goat cheese, and other hard or soft cheeses.
Most quince varieties are too hard and tart to eat raw and are typically cooked before serving.
Crisp white wines like Vidal Blanc, Riesling, and sparkling wines pair especially well with quince paste.
8419 West Main Rd. (Route 20)
Westfield, NY 14787
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March – October
10am-6pm Daily
November – February
10am-5pm Sunday-Thursday
10am-6pm Friday & Saturday
Closed Thanksgiving, Christmas, New Year’s Day, and Easter
