National Cheese Day: Weird pairing that actually works

While many of us would opt to wash it down with a glass of red wine, this Cheese Day whiskey-makers try to convince us there’s a superior alternative.

The Balvenie range of handcrafted single malts Brand Ambassador, Ross Blainey, has shared his top tips so whisky and cheese lovers can create perfect pairings to celebrate the day.

He reckons the Balvenie range pairs beautifully with bold-flavored, aged, and washed rind cheeses.

Here are his pairings for whisky novices and aficionados to enjoy alongside their favorite cheese this National Cheese Day.

The Balvenie 12-Year-Old DoubleWood pairs well with soft, ripe cheeses

Soft, oozy, white cheeses such as brie or camembert are perfectly paired with the honeyed sweetness and slight oakiness of The Balvenie 12.

• The Balvenie 14-Year-Old Caribbean Cask pairs well with complex, savoury cheeses

Finished in Caribbean rum casks, the rummy flavors of the whisky and notes of toffee, brown sugar, orange, vanilla, and tropical fruit pair perfectly with aged, hard savory cheeses.

• The Balvenie 17-Year-Old DoubleWood pairs well with soft, washed-rind cheeses

The earthy flavor of soft and pungent washed-rind cheeses pair well with the bold honey, cinnamon, raisin, and fresh green apple flavors found in The Balvenie 17 DoubleWood.

• The Balvenie 21-Year-Old Portwood pairs well with hard, cooked curd cheeses

Considered the ultimate pairing of cheese and whisky, intense flavoured matured cheeses perfectly match The Balvenie 21’s powerful and refined nutty and fruity tasting notes.