She Strengthens

Beyond Wine: Exploring Unconventional Cheese Pairings

When we think of cheese pairings, our minds often jump to wine. But why limit ourselves? There’s a world of possibilities beyond the traditional wine and cheese combination. Experimenting with non-traditional pairings can be a fun and liberating experience, allowing us to discover new flavors and textures.

Beer and Cheese: A Perfect Match

Take, for instance, the combination of Grassy Threes Brewing Vliet and Grey Barn Prufrock. This Pilsner from Brooklyn-based Threes Brewing transports you to a summer’s day in Vermont, with its lush flavor and refreshing qualities. Paired with the creamy, organic cow’s milk cheese from Martha’s Vineyard, Massachusetts, the result is nothing short of heavenly. The alfalfa notes in the cheese mesh perfectly with the fresh hay notes in the beer, creating a harmonious balance of flavors.

Coffee and Cheese: A Surprising Duo

Who says coffee and cheese can’t be paired? Roasty drip coffee and hazelnutty Comte St. Antoine make for a surprisingly delightful combination. The toasted hazelnuts and scalded milk flavors in the Comte are elevated by the rich, bold flavors of the coffee, creating a savory and complex taste experience.

Cider and Cheese: A Sweet and Savory Pairing

Hard cider can be a great match for cheese, and Eden Peak Bloom Harvest Cider is no exception. With its fresh, fragrant notes of farmers’ market apples, it pairs beautifully with the caramel-y gjetost. The result is a sweet and savory combination that’s reminiscent of a caramel apple.

Mezcal and Cheese: A Smoky Affair

Smoky Yola 1971 Mezcal and lemony Vermont Creamery Coupole make for a pairing that’s both bold and refined. The mineral-y flavor of the mezcal complements the creamy, ripened goat cheese perfectly, with the yeasty flavors on the rind and grassy, preserved lemony flavors inside the cheese mirroring the same flavors in the mezcal.

Seltzer and Cheese: A Refreshing Twist

Aura Bora basil berry seltzer and croissant-y manchego may seem like an unusual pairing, but trust us, it works. The vibrant, balanced flavors of the seltzer are elevated by the herbaceousness of the basil, which juxtaposes beautifully with the freshness of the berry flavors. The result is a refreshing and fruity combination that’s perfect for warm weather.

Tiki Drinks and Cheese: A Tropical Getaway

Tiki drinks may not be the first thing that comes to mind when thinking of cheese pairings, but they can be a surprisingly great match. A Painkiller cocktail, with its dark rum, cream of coconut, and pineapple and orange juices, highlights the nuttiness and caramel corn notes in a goat Gouda. The result is a tropical getaway in a cheese pairing.

Tea and Cheese: A Smoky Delight

Finally, smoky Lapsang souchong tea and smoky Fiore Sardo make for a pairing that’s both bold and nuanced. The delicate orchard fruit flavors and minerality of the tea leaves are elevated by the smoke, which complements the delicate smokiness of the cheese perfectly. The result is a complex and intriguing combination that will leave you wanting more.

By exploring these unconventional cheese pairings, we can discover new flavors and textures that will elevate our appreciation for this beloved dairy product. So go ahead, experiment, and find your new favorite pairing!