Port Wine Cheese Spread

Pairings and Complementary Flavors:

Cocktails: Martini, Old Fashioned, Manhattan, Apple Cider Mimosa
~ A classic Martini with a twist of lemon or olive balances the creamy texture.
~ The sweetness in a bourbon Old Fashioned pairs nicely.
~ A classic whiskey, Manhattan has a robust flavor profile that matches the full flavors of the wine cheddar spread.
~ An Apple Cider Mimosa provides a sweet and effervescent contrast.

Wine: Chardonnay, Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Pinot Noir, Cabernet Sauvignon
~ A buttery Chardonnay complements the creamy texture of the cheese spread.
~ A slightly sweet or off-dry Riesling offers a delightful contrast to the wine’s acidity; the sweetness balances the sharpness and richness of the spread.
~ With its zesty or citrusy undertones, a crisp and refreshing Sauvignon Blanc complements the cheese spread.
~ A lighter-bodied Pinot Noir with fruity notes enhances the subtleties of the cheese and the wine in the spread, while a full-bodied Cabernet Sauvignon makes a great pairing.

Beer: Saison, Stout, Porter, Pale Ale, Pilsner, Brown Ale
~ Saison, with its dry, slightly fruity, and spicy characteristics, enhances the flavors in the cheese spread.
~ Stout or Porter with coffee or chocolate notes provides a rich and robust contrast to the cheese, creating a complex flavor profile.
~ The hoppy bitterness of a Pale Ale balances the richness of the cheese, while its subtle maltiness harmonizes with the creamy texture.
~ A crisp and clean Pilsner offers a nice balance, while the toffee and caramel notes of Brown Ale complement the creamy and tangy aspects of the cheese, creating a harmonious pairing.

Accompaniments: crackers, bread, vegetables, fruits, nuts, pickled vegetables, olives, honey, preserves
~ Neutral or whole-grain crackers or baguettes provide a crisp texture that contrasts with the creaminess.
~ Fresh carrots, cucumbers, or cherry tomatoes add a fresh, crunchy element, while fresh grapes, apples, or pears offer a juicy, sweet contrast. Almonds, walnuts, or pecans add a crunchy texture and nutty flavor.
~ Pickled vegetables or olives bring a tangy and salty contrast, cutting through the richness of the cheese.
~ Honey or fruit preserves add a sweet note that beautifully contrasts with the tangy, sharp cheese flavors.

Suggested uses:

An indulgent snack when enjoyed with crackers or pretzels.

Brings a smooth, savory, gourmet touch to sandwiches, Paninis, pasta, wraps, eggs, potatoes, or burgers.

Adds enhanced richness and flavor to dips and sauces.