When you think of cheese pairings, your mind likely jumps to wine, maybe beer, or even whisky. But what about gin? With its aromatic botanicals and bright, refreshing character, gin can be a surprisingly versatile partner to a variety of cheeses — and some of the most delightful pairings are the ones you never saw coming.
Let’s dive into some unexpected gin and cheese pairings that defy convention and redefine your next tasting board.
🧀 1. Goat Cheese + Classic London Dry Gin
Why it works:
The tangy, citrusy zing of goat cheese finds a perfect complement in the crisp juniper and lemon peel notes of a London Dry gin. The combination feels clean and vibrant — like a summer garden party on your tongue.
Try it with:
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Tanqueray or Beefeater
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Add cucumber slices or fresh mint for bonus harmony.
🧀 2. Blue Cheese + Navy Strength Gin
Why it works:
This one’s bold. Funky, creamy blue cheese (like Stilton or Gorgonzola) pairs beautifully with the punchy, high-proof intensity of navy-strength gin. The gin's spice cuts through the richness, while the alcohol content amplifies the cheese’s earthy flavors.
Try it with:
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Plymouth Navy Strength
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Pair with a honey drizzle or fig jam to balance the salt.
🧀 3. Aged Cheddar + Barrel-Aged Gin
Why it works:
Barrel-aged gins bring oak, vanilla, and spice — much like a mellow whisky. When paired with crumbly, sharp aged cheddar, the duo delivers depth and warmth, like an autumn evening wrapped in a cashmere sweater.
Try it with:
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Citadelle Réserve or St. George Dry Rye Reposado
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Add toasted almonds or apple slices for a full tasting experience.
🧀 4. Brie + Floral Gin (Elderflower or Lavender)
Why it works:
Soft-ripened cheeses like Brie or Camembert love floral, delicate gins. These cheeses have a buttery, mushroomy aroma that gets lifted by gins with notes of elderflower, rose, or lavender.
Try it with:
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Hendrick’s Flora Adora or Bloom Gin
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Serve with crackers and edible flowers for a whimsical touch.
🧀 5. Manchego + Mediterranean Gin
Why it works:
A semi-hard cheese like Manchego has a nutty sweetness that goes incredibly well with gins infused with Mediterranean herbs — think rosemary, thyme, or basil. The umami and herbaceous combo is unexpectedly delightful.
Try it with:
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Gin Mare or Procera Blue Dot
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Add olives or roasted red peppers for an Iberian flair.
🧀 6. Washed-Rind Cheese + Citrus-Forward Gin
Why it works:
Washed-rind cheeses (like Taleggio or Epoisses) can be pungent and gooey — they need something bright and zippy to cut through the funk. Enter citrusy gins with grapefruit, orange, or lemon peel.
Try it with:
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Sipsmith Zesty Orange or Malfy Gin con Limone
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Serve with dried apricots or pickled onion for contrast.
Bonus Tips for Gin & Cheese Pairings
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Use tonic and garnishes to balance: Your garnish (lemon peel, herbs, berries) can help bridge flavors between gin and cheese.
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Chill the gin, not the cheese: Serve gin slightly chilled or with a single ice cube. Cheese should be room temperature for full flavor.
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Experiment fearlessly: Gin is all about botanicals. Don't be afraid to try wild combos — you may discover a new favorite.
Final Sip
Gin and cheese may seem like an odd couple, but when you dive into the world of botanicals and brine, you’ll find a harmony that rivals even the finest wine pairings. Whether you're hosting a party or just curious to explore your palate, these unique duos are sure to surprise — and impress.
So next time you pour a G&T, skip the chips and bring on the cheese board. 🧀🍸