Pairing cheese with tequila can be an exciting and unique experience, as the flavors and characteristics of both can complement each other in unexpected ways. For an unforgettable pairing experience, explore the harmonious interplay between the bold flavors of artisanal cheeses and the diverse profiles of tequila, ranging from the smooth and citrusy notes of blanco to the rich and complex layers of extra añejo. Here are our recommended starting points for your flavor adventure.
1. Casamigos Blanco x Cracked Pepper Cheddar
Why it Works:
Both Casamigos Blanco and Cheddar are relatively mild in the flavorverse which allows neither to overpower one another. The cheddar is mild, creamy, and smooth with a touch of spice from the black pepper which complements the creamy vanilla notes while the slight saltiness of the cheese is matched by slight briny/mineral notes from this blanco tequila. This is a great introductory combination for those new to pairing tequila and cheese together.
2. Patron Silver x OKA
Why it Works:
OKA is a Quebecois cheese made from unpasteurized cow’s milk & is semi-soft washed rind with a soft creamy flavor, with notes of buttery, hazelnut, fruity, and a slight pungency.
Patron Silver’s crisp, citrus notes complement the creamy texture of Oka cheese, creating a balanced pairing where the tequila’s brightness contrasts with the cheese’s rich flavour.
3. Espolon Blanco x Herbed Chèvre
Why it Works:
Creamy and herbaceous, chèvre or goat’s cheese brings out the fruit and sweetness in the Espolon Blanco and the herbs enhance the herbaceous and peppery notes of the tequila.
4. Cazadores Reposado x Coconut Gouda
Why is Works:
Cazadores Reposado’s smooth caramel and oak notes contrast beautifully with the sweet and nutty flavor of Coconut Gouda, creating a pairing where the tequila’s warmth complements the cheese’s creamy texture. The coconut is enhanced thanks to the oak lactones found in the barrels that Cazadores are rested in.
5. Tromba Reposado x Parmesan
Why it Works:
Sharp, tangy, nutty and salty, Parmesan is a flavour powerhouse that can enhance some of the toasty notes in Tromba Reposado as well as complement the green, citrus and tropical fruit notes.
6. Cabo Wabo Reposado x Le Baluchon
Why it Works:
Cabo Wabo Reposado has a distinct citrus note which contrasts well with slightly barny, buttery notes of Le Baluchon cheese. In addition, Le Baluchon is mildly sweet and has a hazelnut note that complements the oak influence in this Reposado tequila.
7. Casamigos Anejo x St. Paulin
Why this Works:
Casamigos Anejo’s rich caramel and subtle oak notes complement the creamy and slightly tangy profile of St. Paulin cheese, creating a pairing where the tequila’s smooth complexity accentuates the cheese’s delicate flavor, resulting in a luxurious combination that offers a balance of sweetness and depth.
8. Hornitos Black Barrel x Raclette
Why it Works:
Hornitos Black Barrel’s smoky and spicy character harmonizes with the nutty and creamy notes of Raclette cheese, creating a pairing where the tequila’s boldness contrasts with the cheese’s texture, resulting in a dynamic combination that offers layers of depth and flavor with a hint of intrigue. Try charring and melting the Raclette before eating to complement the smoky notes in this tequila.
9. Herradura Anejo x Alfred Le Fermier
Why it Works:
Herradura Anejo’s rich caramel and vanilla tones match the honeyed and caramel notes of Alfred Le Fermier cheese, creating a pairing where the tequila’s smooth complexity enhances the cheese’s creamy texture, resulting in a sophisticated fusion of flavors that offers a luxurious and indulgent experience.
10. Herradura Ultra Cristalino x Blue Stilton
Why it Works:
Herradura Ultra Cristalino’s smooth, sweet, and refined profile contrasts with the slightly pungent flavors of Blue Stilton cheese, creating a counterbalance of sweet and vanilla with salty and slightly funky notes.
11. Don Julio 70 Cristalino x Smoked Applewood Cheddar
Why It Works:
Don Julio 70 strikes a great balance between sweet, green agave notes, fruitiness and the toasty vanilla/caramel notes from aging which create a multifaceted pairing with the tangy, smoky notes of applewood smoked cheddar. Applewood in particular is a very versatile cheese to pair with most styles of tequila!
12. Jose Cuervo Reserva De La Familia Extra Anejo x Smoked Gouda
Why It Works:
Jose Cuervo Reserva De La Familia Extra Anejo’s complex blend of caramel, chocolate, and toasted oak notes complements the smoky and nutty flavors of Smoked Gouda cheese, creating a pairing where the tequila’s richness enhances the cheese’s depth, resulting in a dynamic tasting experience.
13. Codigo Rosa Reposado x Fontina
Why it Works:
Wine and cheese is a classic combination and the influence of the wine cask finish with Codigo Rosa Reposado works wonders for cheese pairings. Delicate floral and fruity notes harmonize with the mild and nutty flavors of Fontina cheese, creating a pairing where the tequila’s subtle sweetness complements the cheese’s creamy texture.
14. Calirosa x Beemster Classic
Why is Works:
Calirosa Tequila’s bright and fruity undertones contrast the rich and nutty flavors of Beemster Classic cheese, resulting in a dynamic combination that offers a refreshing balance of sweetness and savory elements. This cheese in particular is versatile when pairing with many style of tequila!
15. Butterfly Cannon Blue x Red Leicester
Why It Works:
Butterfly Cannon Blue’s floral and citrusy notes contrast with the bold and tangy flavors of Red Leicester cheese, creating a pairing where the tequila’s aromatic complexity accentuates the cheese’s richness. This pairing offers a tantalizing interplay of flavors with a hint of zest and spice.
