Whisky and cheese pairings

The British Cheese Board has created a guide to a range of cheese and whisky pairings – offering winning combinations.

Britain produces over 700 varieties of named cheeses and there over 2,500 brands of whisky worldwide.

Cheese and whisky work well together with the high level of alcohol in the whisky cutting through the creaminess of the cheese, allowing the flavours to be released.

Whisky also has a number of flavours which can not be found in wine but which are found in cheese, including grassiness, barrel fermented notes, and saltiness.

Nigel White, secretary of the British Cheese Board, commented: "Prior to the tasting, I wouldn't have seen whisky and cheese as natural bedfellows. However, having conducted such fruitful research, we have come up with some delicious pairings.

"I can safely say that many whiskies serve to complement the cheeses and bring out an array of flavours. For the occasional whisky-drinker, we would suggest a small measure of water taken with the whisky to bring the sweetness of the whisky out and enhance the taste of the cheese."

For a soft flavour, people could try a Creamy Lancashire with Glen Elgin 12yo. This whisky has a fruity, sweet taste.

Those looking for a stronger taste can match the Glen Elgin 12yo and Compass Box peat Monster with an Extra Mature Cheddar, producing a rich result. The whisky adds to the complexity of the taste, giving an overall smokiness.

And whisky connoisseurs could try a Balvenie 21yo Port Wood with a slice of Blue Stilton. The whisky has honey tones and a red fruit aroma, combining with the smooth texture of the Stilton.

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