Wine and cheese have long been the stars of sophisticated soirées, but it’s time to shake things up. Enter cocktail and cheese pairings: a modern, elevated twist that brings together the bold flavours of carefully crafted drinks and artisanal cheeses. 

Whether you’re hosting a casual get-together or assembling a post-dinner grazing board, this combination transforms cheese nights into an unforgettable experience.

By pairing the right cocktail with the perfect cheese, you’ll open the door to exciting flavour combinations that complement and enhance each other. Let’s explore how to master this pairing game and which are too good to miss.

When pairing cheese with cocktails, consider the flavour profiles of both elements. The goal is to create a harmonious balance where neither the drink nor the cheese overwhelms the palate. Contrasting flavours can be just as successful as complementary ones—think sweet cocktails with salty cheeses or citrus-forward drinks with creamy, mild varieties.

For an extra touch of creativity, use the cheese as a garnish. A Parmesan crisp or a slice of Stilton perched on the rim of a glass not only looks impressive but also ties the pairing together beautifully. Serve with crackers, nuts, or fresh fruit for an elevated cheeseboard experience.

The caramel sweetness and citrusy warmth of an Old Fashioned make it a perfect match for mild white cheeses like Brie. This soft and buttery cheese offers just enough richness to complement the whisky’s depth.

Serve this pairing on a board with thin slices of toasted sourdough or salty crackers. The creaminess of Brie contrasts beautifully with the drink’s slight tangy notes from the aromatic bitters, while a touch of orange zest ties it all together.

A classic Scotch on the rocks is bold and uncompromising, much like a mature cheddar. The nutty, sharp tang of the cheese perfectly mirrors the rich, layered flavours of The Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve, known for its notes of toffee and ripe pear.

This pairing is ideal for those who prefer robust flavours. Add a handful of roasted nuts or a dollop of chutney for an extra layer of complexity, allowing the scotch to cleanse the palate between bites.

The bitterness of Campari in a Scotch Negroni (also known as a Boulevardier) finds its perfect counterpart in the salty, umami-packed punch of Parmesan. The aged cheese enhances the cocktail’s bittersweet balance, while the whisky base adds a warming depth.

For an extra flourish, garnish the glass with a sliver or crisp of Parmesan. Pair with thin slices of prosciutto for a truly decadent snack.

Fruity and refreshing, the Pineapple Whisky Smash bursts with tropical notes that contrast beautifully with the salty, tangy flavour of stilton. This pairing is a delightful balance of sweet and savoury, perfect for those who enjoy bold, sour cheeses.

Serve alongside fresh grapes or figs to highlight the fruitiness of the drink. The stilton’s creamy texture provides a luxurious counterpoint to the cocktail’s zesty lime finish.

The Godfather combines whisky with nutty Amaretto, creating a smooth, slightly sweet cocktail. This pairs beautifully with Camembert, whose gooey richness complements the drink’s almond-like undertones.

For an extra festive touch, top the Camembert with a spoonful of fruity chutney or honeyed walnuts. Serve warm with crusty bread for a showstopping addition to your cheeseboard.

Coffee and cheese might not be an obvious pairing, but the rich, spiced notes of a Spiced Spey Coffee work wonderfully with the tangy smoothness of creamy goat cheese. Together, they create a unique post-dinner treat that balances sweetness and acidity.

This pairing is perfect with a sprinkling of dried cranberries or a drizzle of honey. Serve as an indulgent finale to your Christmas feast or alongside dark chocolate for an added touch of luxury.

Find out more about how to pair cheese with whisky as well as other whisky cocktails to try with dishes at home.