7 ways to pair chocolate with The Glenlivet whisky

Whisky and chocolate is not a common pairing, but it’s one you’ll want to try. Connoisseurs and novices alike will appreciate the rich, creamy pop of chocolate after a sip of scotch. But which to choose?

Just like whisky, there are many different types and flavours of chocolate, from deep dark cocoa to milky white truffles. And the combination of these two delights is one to have fun exploring.

Here are our recommendations for the best chocolates to pair with The Glenlivet whisky.

The best way to pair chocolate and whisky is by matching complimentary flavours. Think floral blends with fruity bars, darker truffles with a rich, aged bottle. But of course, there really are no rules. You may find you prefer your favourite scotch with a certain sweet treat and that’s A-OK.

A whisky and chocolate tasting is an ideal way to discover your favourite pairing among friends. Pick up a few different bars and truffles to try, taking a sip before each bite to allow the sweetness of the chocolate to blend with the scotch.

Fruits and nuts are a common addition to chocolate. From dried raspberries and raisins to almonds, hazelnuts and peanuts, there are dozens of variations to get your hands on. 

When snacking on a bar with nuts or hints of berries, we recommend pairing with a sweet, light whisky that will match the chocolate’s subtle flavours. Try with Caribbean Reserve, our single malt whisky that has a delicious tropical twist. Selectively finished in barrels that previously held Caribbean rum, its sweet finish contains notes of pear, red apple and syrupy banana.

For darker chocolates that contain dried fruit, try with The Glenlivet 21 Year Old. Our luscious triple cask scotch is finished in first-fill Oloroso Sherry, Tronçais Cognac and Colheita vintage Port casks to create extra layers of smooth, rich depth. Pair dried grapes and apricot chocolates with this complex rich whisky boasting with warm, fragrant notes of nutmeg, cinnamon and caramelised pear.

Orange and chocolate are an iconic pairing. The fruit was once used to elevate drinking chocolate and is now a staple combo for many chocolate lovers. Pair chocolate covered orange peel or flavoured squares with one of our signature bottles. The Glenlivet 12 Year Old whisky is smooth, balanced and fruity, perfect for drinking alongside citrus notes. 

In fact these three flavours go so well together we made them into a drink. Take your whisky and chocolate pairing to the next level with our Chocolate Orange Old Fashioned, a must-try cocktail for anyone who loves a little chocolatey indulgence.

Warming spices are a comforting addition to milk and dark chocolates. Crystalised ginger, hints of cinnamon and hot chilli offer intense flavours that are sweetened by the cocoa.

Find a blend that won’t be overpowered such as The Glenlivet Captain’s Reserve. This rich and powerful whisky marries spicy notes of cinnamon and liquorice with the signature creamy, smoothness of our one and only, The Glenlivet.

Sweet, buttery coconut calls for a whisky with a creamy, vanilla nose. Pair yours with The Glenlivet 18 Year Old whisky. This exceptional blend uses a combination of casks including ex-sherry and American Oak to create a slightly spiced, velvety taste that compliments the subtle lightness of coconut flavoured chocolate. Perfect for a special occasion.

White chocolate is super creamy and sweet and so works perfectly with a smooth single malts with a touch of spice. We’ve chosen our 15 Year Old scotch for this pairing, a bottle with a distinctive rich and exotic character that comes from selective maturation in French oak casks. It’s pleasing spiciness and notes of sweet almond are enhanced by the milkyness of the white chocolate.

Caramel is a classic chocolate ingredient that comes in many forms. Salted caramel, luscious liquid and crunchy toffee are commonly drizzled in chocolate to create delicious rich treats. 

Match caramel’s super sweetness with a creamy, smooth whisky such as The Glenlivet Founder’s Reserve. This bottle of single malt scotch is a tribute to our founder that mingles delicate sweetness of toffee apples and pear with light, zesty notes.

Want to match more food with your scotch? Discover our guide on how to pair cheese and whisky or learn more about pairing whisky and tea. You can also find our complete range of The Glenlivet single malt whisky and cocktail recipes.