When we think about enjoying cheese with a particular beverage, wine is usually what comes to mind first. However, wine is not the only thing we can drink when nibbling on that cheese platter. Beer and cheese can also be a delicious pair. The key is to know which flavours work best together. Here’s all you need to know about these kinds of pairings.

Simple yet satisfying

It is interesting to note that beer and cheese has been paired long before cheese and wine became popular. Farmers years ago would enjoy lunch along with a refreshing pint of beer. The lunch would usually include ham and cheese. Today, this meal is knowns as the ‘ploughman’s lunch’ and you can order it at various restaurants and pubs.

Delicious combinations

If you are not sure which beer and cheese combinations will work best, not to worry. Here is an excellent list of delicious combos.

  • Feta and Goat cheese : Wheat beers
  • American cheese, Monterey Jack and similar cheeses : Pilsners with a moderate amount of hops (like Stella Artois)
  • Mascarpone : Fruit beers
  • Gorgonzola and similar cheeses : Barleywines
  • Chedder, Gloucester and Colby : Brown Ales
  • against the strong flavours of the cheese
  • Roquefort and strong cheeses : Equally strong Belgian Ales to stand a chance
  • Parmesan : Amber Lager
  • Swiss cheese and Emmental : Dark Lagers or Bock Beer

Something extra

When serving beer and cheese, you should take a moment to include some other goodies on the cheese platter. You will need some crunchy crackers or bread. Make sure that, if you are serving these platters to several guests, that you include more than one type of bread. Plain crackers are best because they will allow you and your guests to enjoy the true flavours of the cheese and beer.

Cheese serving tips

When serving beer and cheese, make sure that you serve everything at the right temperature. It is important to chill your beer properly before serving. As for your cheese, you should allow it to warm slightly to room temperature before serving. This is because room temperature cheese will allow you to really enjoy even the more subtle flavours. Chilled cheese has a very mild flavour and is not quite as enjoyable.

Now that you know how to pair beer and cheese as well as how you should serve your cheese platters, all you need to do is select your beers, cheeses and invite some friends over to share in the delicious fun!