Blue Cheese

Cocktails. Whiskey Sour, Martini, Gin and Tonic, Old Fashioned, Manhattan
~ The balance of intense, tart, and sweet flavors in a Whiskey Sour complements blue cheese’s rich, pungent taste.
~ A classic gin or vodka Martini with olives and its bite of alcohol can stand up to the cheese’s intensity, while the botanicals in a Gin and Tonic make for a refreshing contrast.
~ The sweetness of an Old Fashioned works well with the creamy and salty nature of blue cheese, while the sweet vermouth in a whiskey Manhattan and the bold flavor in the cheese offer a decadent pairing.

Wine: Zinfandel, Cabernet Sauvignon, Riesling, Moscato
~ With its bold fruit flavors and peppery notes, Zinfandel complements the intense flavors of blue cheese, while the tannic properties of a full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon withstand its intensity.
~ A mildly sweet or off-dry Riesling pairs wonderfully with blue cheese by balancing its saltiness with fruity notes.
~ A fizzy and sweet Moscato contrasts the cheese’s tartness, making a refreshing pairing.

Beer: Saison, Wheat Beer, IPA, Stout, Porter
~ The fruity, spicy, and effervescent qualities of a Saison or Wheat Beer provide a refreshing counterpoint to the cheese’s tang and creaminess.
~ The hop-forward and bitter nature of an IPA cuts through the richness of blue cheese.
~ A Stout or Porter, especially those with chocolate or coffee undertones, complements the earthy notes of blue cheese and creates a harmonious pairing.

Accompaniments: bread, fruits, nuts, honey, dark chocolate, olives, pickled vegetables, cured meats
~ Rustic bread, crackers, or oatcakes offer a satisfying texture and are the perfect canvas for your cheese creation.
~ Pears, apples, and grapes supply a crisp and juicy contrast to the richness of the cheese, while apricots and figs bring a delightful chewy contrast.
~ Nuts like toasted almonds, walnuts, or pecans bring a crunchy, earthy element that complements its creaminess.
~ Honey or dark chocolate offers a sweet contrast to the cheese’s salty and pungent nature and is a delightful and surprising flavor combination.
~ The briny contrast of olives or pickled vegetables cuts through the richness of the cheese, while Prosciutto and salami offer a savory contrast.

Suggested uses:

• Serve it with olives to bring earthy flavor to a cheese board
• It provides an extra layer of flavor and saltiness to salads, steak, burgers, mashed potatoes, or roasted vegetables