Cherry Cheddar with Door County Cherries

Pairings and Complementary Flavors:

Cocktails: Whiskey Sour, Manhattan, Cherry Mojito, Sparkling Wine Cocktail
~ The tart flavors of a classic Whiskey Sour are an excellent contrast with the robust notes of the cheese and the tart cherries.
~ A Manhattan’s bold and complex flavors will surely complement the cheese and bring out the sweet speckles of cherry.
~ A cherry mojito or a sparkling wine cocktail with a splash of cherry juice or liqueur adds a refreshing effervescence that heightens the cherry flavors within the cheese.

Wine: Pinot Noir, Riesling, Cabernet Sauvignon, Rosé
~ A light to medium-bodied Pinot Noir with red fruit flavors and earthiness highlights the cheddar’s tart cherry notes.
~ A slightly dry Riesling with vibrant acidity and floral notes provides a striking balance to the cherries.
~ With its full body, dark fruit flavors, and moderate tannins, Cabernet presents an excellent structure that stands up to the rich cheddar and provides a satisfying pairing.
~ The dry, crisp, slightly fruity structure and bright acidity of rosé is a refreshing contrast to this robust cheese.

Beer: Amber Ale, Brown Ale, fruit-infused beer
~ Amber Ale brings a balanced maltiness and moderate hop bitterness for a perfectly versatile pairing that allows the cheese flavors to shine without becoming overpowering.
~ A malty and nutty Brown Ale can complement the savory and rich cheese characteristics while offering a slightly sweet and smooth backdrop.
~ Fruit-infused beers, especially cherry wheat or fruity sour beer, can enhance the cherry flavor in the cheese and provide a bright and fresh contrast to the sharpness in the cheese.

Accompaniments: Crackers, bread, fresh fruit, dried fruit, nuts, honey, fruit preserves
~ A selection of plain or lightly seasoned crackers or slices of crusty bread is a great option to provide a neutral base and textural contrast to the cheese.
~ Apples, pears, or grapes provide a sweet hydration that can complement the tartness of the cherries.
~ Walnuts, almonds, and pecans give an earthiness and pleasant contrast to the creamy, bold cheese flavors.
~ Cherry preserves, or fig jam enhances the sweetness and notes of the cherries to create a delightful pairing.
~ Cured meats such as prosciutto, salami, or smoked ham provide salty flavors and complement cheddar’s richness, creating the perfect pairing for sweet and savory lovers.

Suggested uses:

• A unique, flavorful, visually interesting option for a cheese board
• Elevate sandwiches, burgers, stuffed chicken, or pork
• Crumble it over a salad with greens, mixed fruits, and vinaigrette dressings to create an intriguing contrast and provide the perfect tang.
• Incorporate into baked goods for a one-of-a-kind flavor twist that can add depth to savory scones, biscuits, or muffins.