Cheese infused cocktails are rising in popularity, and we’re not surprised to see it. Craft spirits and the many varieties of cheese offer complex flavors and rich textures. While more neutral spirits like gin and vodka bring herbal and botanical notes to the table, bourbon contributes warmth, spice, and sweetness. Let’s explore some delightful pairings that highlight the best of some of our favorite cheeses and spirits.
5 Pairings of Cheese and Cocktails
Gin Martini
Cheese Pairing: Blue Cheese Olives
The sharp, pungent flavors of blue cheese are beautifully balanced by the crispness of a gin martini. The botanical notes in the gin complement the cheese, while the olives and the dry vermouth cut through the richness.
- .5 oz extra dry vermouth
- 2.5 oz Joseph Magnus Vigilant Navy Strength Gin
- 3 green olives
- .5 oz blue cheese
- Ice
Gently stuff blue cheese into the cavities of the olives. Set aside. Chill martini glass.
Add the vermouth and Magnus Gin to a cocktail shaker with ice and stir for 30 seconds. Strain the Magnus Gin and vermouth mixture into the glass. Garnish with the blue cheese stuffed olives.
Gin Fizz
Cheese Pairing: Herbed Goat Cheese
The bright and refreshing flavors of a Gin Fizz complement the tangy and creamy notes of herbed goat cheese beautifully. The herbs in the cheese harmonize with the botanicals in the gin, creating a refreshing and delightful contrast.
- 2 oz Joseph Magnus District Dry Gin
- 1 oz lemon juice
- .5 oz simple syrup
- Club soda, to top
Combine gin, lemon juice, and simple syrup in a shaker with ice. Shake well, then strain into a glass. Top with club soda and garnish with a lemon slice.
Bourbon Old Fashioned
Cheese Pairing: Aged Cheddar
The rich, nutty flavors of aged cheddar resonate with the caramel and vanilla notes of bourbon. The Old Fashioned’s simplicity and slight sweetness lets the cheese shine, enhancing both the drink and the cheese.
- 2 oz Joseph Magnus Bourbon Whiskey
- 1 sugar cube
- 2 dashes Angostura bitters
- Orange twist
Muddle the sugar cube and bitters with a splash of water in a glass. Add Joseph Magnus Bourbon and ice, then stir gently. Garnish with an orange twist and a slice of cheddar cheese.
Maple Bourbon Sour
Cheese Pairing: Smoked Gouda
The creamy, smoky flavors of gouda pair wonderfully with the sweet and tart notes of a Maple Bourbon Sour. The richness of the cheese softens the acidity of the cocktail, creating a harmonious balance.
- 2 oz Joseph Magnus Bourbon Whiskey
- 1 oz lemon juice
- .5 oz maple syrup
- Dash of bitters
- 1 egg white
Shake bourbon, lemon juice, maple syrup, egg white, and bitters with ice. Strain into a glass and garnish with a lemon twist and a slice of gouda on the side.
Rosemary Gin Sour
Cheese Pairing: Brie
The buttery, soft texture of brie is complemented by the herbal notes of rosemary in this gin cocktail. The brightness of the lemon enhances the creaminess of the cheese, making for an elegant pairing.
- 2 oz Joseph Magnus District Dry Gin
- 1 oz lemon juice
- .5 oz simple syrup
- 1 egg white
Combine District Dry Gin, lemon juice, egg white, and simple syrup in a shaker and shake until combined without ice. Add ice, shake again, and then strain into a glass. Garnish with rosemary and a slice of brie on the side.
We believe cheese and cocktails pair best when you use Joseph Magnus spirits, available at a retailer near you or to buy online. Join our mailing list to stay up to date with the latest from Jos. A. Magnus. You can also follow us on Facebook and Instagram to stay up to date.
