Colby Bacon Cheese

Pairings and Complementary Flavors:

Cocktails: Mezcal Martini, Whiskey Sour, Old Fashioned, Bloody Mary, Manhattan
~ A smoky Mezcal Martini enhances the smoky notes of the bacon.
~ The tangy lemon and smoothness of a traditional Whiskey Sour balances out the cheese’s creaminess and the bacon’s richness.
~ The simple sweetness in a classic bourbon Old-Fashioned complements the bacon’s smokiness and the Colby’s mildness.
~ The savory nature of a Bloody Mary mirrors the savory aspects of bacon, creating a harmonious pairing.
~ A Manhattan’s whiskey and herbal notes provide a robust backdrop to the cheese and bacon flavors.

Wine: Chardonnay, Riesling, Zinfandel, Pinot Noir, Syrah
~ An oaked Chardonnay with buttery and creamy notes complements the cheese.
~ An off-dry Riesling brings a refreshing acidity and slight sweetness that contrasts with the savory bacon.
~ A Zinfandel with hints of black pepper pairs nicely, while Syrah’s bold flavors complement the bacon’s smokiness.
~ A lighter, earthy Pinot Noir pairs well with this cheese and bacon-flavored cheese.

Beer: Porter, Stout, Wheat Beer, Pilsner, Saison
~ Porter or Stout, especially those with chocolate and coffee undertones, can harmonize with the smoky flavors of the bacon to provide a rich counterpoint to the cheese.
~ Wheat beer, with its light character and slightly fruity notes, provides a refreshing contrast to this richness, while a Pilsner provides refreshment with its light and crisp bitterness.
~ The fruity, spicy character in a Saison contrasts the savory, creamy aspects of the pairing.

Accompaniments: rye crackers, sourdough, fruits, honey, nuts, olives, cornichons, meats, mustard
~ Rye crackers or tangy sourdough contrast Colby’s creaminess and the bacon’s smokiness.
~ Apples, pears, or grapes provide a refreshing contrast with their slight sweetness and crisp textures. Dried fruits will introduce a chewy texture and concentrated sweetness, while honey introduces a sweet contrast to the salty bacon.
~ Almonds, walnuts, and pecans pair nicely with this cheese with their crunchiness and slightly bitter notes or buttery flavors.
~ The brininess of green olives, black olives, or cornichons contrasts and complements the cheese flavors.
~ Salami and prosciutto complement the smokiness of the bacon and provide varied textures.
~ A grainy and spicy mustard will introduce a tangy kick and complement the bacon’s richness.

Suggested uses:

A great option to pair with fruits, nuts, and crackers on a charcuterie tray

It brings added richness and depth to grilled cheese sandwiches, macaroni and cheese, burgers, pizza, omelets, frittatas, potato dishes, salads, pasta, and casseroles.

It provides a rich, smoky boost to soups, sauces, and dips.