The Perfect Cheese And Bourbon Pairing: A Guide

Bourbon and cheese is a classic pairing that has been enjoyed for at least 20 years. With its diverse flavour profiles, bourbon can be matched with a variety of cheeses, from creamy bries to aged goudas and sharp cheddars. The high fat content in cheese is said to protect the palate from the burn of alcohol, making it a great pairing. Bourbon, with its notes of vanilla, citrus, and smoke, is a versatile spirit that can be sipped alongside a carefully curated cheese plate for a unique and indulgent experience.

Aged hard cheese like Gouda, Pecorino or Parmigiano-Reggiano

Aged hard cheeses like Gouda, Pecorino, or Parmigiano-Reggiano are excellent choices for bourbon pairings. These cheeses have strong, distinct flavours that can stand up to the proof of the bourbon, and their higher fat content helps to temper the alcohol burn.

Gouda, for example, imparts a smoky flavour that pairs well with bigger, oak-aged, and smoky bourbons. A 5-year-old Gouda, in particular, has deep, sweet, complex flavours that start with a burnt caramel taste and then mellow out to a toasted walnut and buttery flavour. This makes it an excellent match for a bourbon like Angel's Envy, which has a distinct sweetness that complements the cheese.

Similarly, Pecorino and Parmigiano-Reggiano are harder, crystalline-textured cheeses that go well with rye whiskey. The dynamic flavour of rye—characterised by its spiciness and full body—pairs beautifully with these harder cheeses.

When creating a bourbon and cheese pairing, it's important to consider the different flavour profiles of both the cheese and the bourbon. Look for strong and mild flavours, soft and hard cheeses, and different styles to give your palate a variety of experiences. The contrast between the cheese and the bourbon can create a delightful sensory experience, highlighting subtle flavours that might otherwise be missed when enjoying them separately.

Soft cheese like Brie or Camembert

Soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert are rich and creamy, with a mild flavour and a high fat content. This means they can stand up to a bourbon with a higher proof, but also pair well with a lower-proof or wheated bourbon. The high fat content of the cheese protects the palate from the burn of alcohol, so you can experiment with different strengths of bourbon.

When pairing a soft cheese with bourbon, consider a lower-proof bourbon such as Maker's Mark, which tends to be a bit sweeter. The creamy richness of Brie or Camembert will complement the sweetness of the bourbon.

You could also try a bourbon with a higher proof, such as Basil Hayden's, which has nutty and caramel scents. The higher alcohol content won't be overwhelming, as the fat content of the cheese will balance it out.

For a real treat, try a bourbon with notes of toffee, honey, and white pepper, such as Woodford Reserve. The sweetness of the bourbon will complement the mild flavour of the cheese, while the creamy texture of the cheese will be a perfect match for the smooth, elegant spirit.

If you're feeling adventurous, branch out from the traditional French options and try Lil' Hosmer, an American soft cheese that pairs well with Irish whiskey.

Sharp aged cheddar

When it comes to cheese and bourbon pairings, sharp aged cheddar is a classic choice that never disappoints. The complex flavours and textures of aged cheddar make it a perfect match for the unique characteristics of bourbon. Here's why this combination is a sensory delight:

The Magic of Sharp Aged Cheddar

Cheddar, one of the world's most popular cheeses, has a long and rich history that traces back to the village of Cheddar in Somerset, England. The traditional cheddar-making process, known as "cheddaring", involves repeatedly stacking, pressing, and cutting the curd to create its distinct crumbly texture.

Aged cheddar, also known as "mature cheddar", is allowed to develop its flavour and texture over time. The longer it ages, the sharper and more complex its flavour becomes, ranging from nutty and earthy to bold and tangy, with some varieties even taking on a slight sweetness. The texture becomes more crumbly and granular, adding an interesting mouthfeel to the overall experience.

The Perfect Pairing: Bourbon's Warmth Meets Cheddar's Nuttiness

Bourbon, with its rich caramel and vanilla notes, is an ideal spirit to pair with sharp aged cheddar. The warmth and oak flavours from the barrel ageing in bourbon beautifully accentuate the nuttiness and sharpness of the cheese. The bourbon's smooth, sweet characteristics balance the cheddar's boldness, creating a harmonious dance on the palate.

For an exceptional pairing, opt for a smooth, well-rounded bourbon like Buffalo Trace, which offers hints of vanilla, caramel, and oak that perfectly complement the depth of flavour in aged cheddar. Bring the cheese to room temperature before serving to fully appreciate its complex flavours.

Creative Ways to Enjoy This Classic Combination

While simply enjoying a glass of bourbon alongside a wedge of sharp aged cheddar is a delightful experience in itself, there are also creative ways to take this pairing to the next level:

• Bourbon Glaze Cheddar Cubes: Coat bite-sized cheddar cubes in a sweet and savoury bourbon glaze made by simmering bourbon with brown sugar, honey, vanilla extract, and a pinch of salt. Bake until bubbly, and enjoy as a warm, creamy, and slightly boozy snack.
• Charcuterie Board Bliss: Include sharp aged cheddar on your charcuterie board, pairing it with cured meats, olives, and a crisp apple. Add a drizzle of honey or some slices of pear to complement the cheese's sharpness.
• Gourmet Burger Topping: Those same bourbon glaze cheddar cubes can be used as a mouthwatering topping for gourmet burgers, adding a unique twist to your next cookout.
• Dessert Delight: For a decadent finish to your meal, pair a small cube of sharp aged cheddar with a classic bourbon cocktail like an Old Fashioned, or enjoy it with a refreshing glass of iced tea.

Exploring Other Beverage Options

While bourbon is a superb match for sharp aged cheddar, there are also other beverage options that can enhance your cheese experience:

• Wine: Try a bold Cabernet Sauvignon, a red wine known for its high tannin content and dark fruit flavours. The tannins complement the sharpness of the cheese while the ripe blackcurrant and plum notes balance its intensity.
• Beer: For beer enthusiasts, a hoppy IPA (India Pale Ale) is an excellent choice. The bitterness of the hops cuts through the richness of the cheese, while the malty undertones bring out its nutty flavours.

Whether enjoyed with bourbon, wine, or beer, sharp aged cheddar is a versatile and flavourful cheese that stands the test of time. Its bold, sharp character ensures it always makes a lasting impression.

Blue cheese

A recommended pairing is Woodford Reserve Kentucky Straight Bourbon Whiskey with blue cheese. Woodford Reserve is a distinguished bourbon with a rich, full-bodied character, embodying deep notes of dried fruit, toffee, and a melange of spices. This intricate profile finds a remarkable counterpart in the strong, distinctive flavour of blue cheese. The boldness of the blue cheese elevates the sensory experience of Woodford Reserve.

Clothbound cheddar

When it comes to cheese and bourbon pairings, clothbound cheddar stands out as a sublime choice. This variety of cheddar, wrapped in cloth and carefully aged, offers a unique sensory experience that complements the complex flavours of bourbon. Here's why clothbound cheddar is the perfect companion for your favourite bourbon.

The Magic of Clothbound Cheddar

Flavour Profile

The flavour of clothbound cheddar is a delightful interplay of savoury and tangy notes, with a hint of sweetness. It delivers a deeply savoury experience, enhanced by a signature tang and a touch of caramel nuttiness. This savoury-sweet balance makes it incredibly versatile for pairings. The caramel sweetness in the finish adds a delightful dimension that bridges the gap between the bold flavours of bourbon.

Pairing Clothbound Cheddar with Bourbon

When it comes to pairing clothbound cheddar with bourbon, the options are enticing. The cheese's rustic crystalline texture, which transforms into a creamy sensation on the palate, makes it a perfect match for charcuterie, apple jelly, or a rich chestnut honey. As for bourbon, clothbound cheddar shines when paired with a well-balanced bourbon like Buffalo Trace. This bourbon's earthy and sweet notes beautifully mirror the cheese's own blend of sweetness and earthiness.

Additionally, clothbound cheddar's nutty aroma and savoury notes can be accentuated by bourbons with similar nutty or caramel scents. For instance, the synergy between clothbound cheddar and Basil Hayden's bourbon was described by Janet Fletcher, author of "Cheese & Wine" and "Cheese & Beer," as "off the charts."

Serving Suggestions

When serving clothbound cheddar with bourbon, consider the following tips:

• Opt for a bourbon that is lower in proof, preferably between 80 and 90 proof, to avoid overpowering the delicate flavours of the cheese.
• Include complementary elements on your charcuterie board, such as cured meats, apples, and rich chestnut honey.
• For a truly indulgent experience, create bourbon glaze cheddars by coating sharp cheddar cubes in a sweet and savoury bourbon glaze.

Frequently asked questions