The Perfect Drinks to Pair with Your Christmas Stilton Cheese (Part 2)

Stilton cheese is a festive staple, renowned for its creamy texture and tangy, savoury flavour. 

Whether you’re indulging in a classic blue Stilton or a milder white Stilton, choosing the right drink to accompany it can elevate your Christmas cheeseboard to new heights. 

Here’s a guide to the best alcoholic and non-alcoholic beverages to pair with Stilton this holiday season.

Alcoholic Pairings for Stilton Cheese

1. Port: The Classic Choice

Why it works: The sweetness of port balances Stilton’s sharpness, creating a perfect harmony of flavours.

What to try: Ruby port for a fruit-forward pairing, or tawny port for a nutty, caramelised flavour.

2. Sweet Dessert Wines

Why it works: Dessert wines like Sauternes or Tokaji complement Stilton’s richness with their honeyed sweetness.

What to try: Sauternes for a luxurious pairing, or a Moscato for something lighter and fruitier.

3. Bold Red Wines

Why it works: A robust red wine can stand up to Stilton’s intense flavour.

What to try: Opt for a full-bodied wine like a Cabernet Sauvignon, Malbec, or vintage Bordeaux.

4. Sherry

Why it works: The nutty, oxidative notes of sherry complement Stilton’s creamy, salty profile.

What to try: Go for an Oloroso or a sweet Pedro Ximénez for a festive pairing.

5. Ales and Stouts

Why it works: The malty richness of ales and stouts matches Stilton’s depth, while the carbonation cleanses the palate.

What to try: Pair Stilton with a traditional English barleywine, a dark stout, or a festive spiced ale.

6. Sparkling Wines

Why it works: The effervescence of sparkling wine cuts through Stilton’s creaminess, creating a refreshing contrast.

What to try: Champagne, Prosecco, or a sparkling rosé are all excellent choices.

Non-Alcoholic Pairings for Stilton Cheese

1. Grape Juice

Why it works: A sweet, full-bodied grape juice mimics the pairing of port and Stilton without the alcohol.

What to try: Opt for red or black grape juice for a rich, fruity flavour.

2. Apple Cider

Why it works: The crisp sweetness of apple cider complements Stilton’s tangy notes.

What to try: Choose a sparkling or spiced apple cider for a festive twist.

3. Pear Juice

Why it works: Pear juice offers a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with Stilton’s salty, creamy profile.

What to try: Serve chilled pear juice for a light, refreshing pairing.

4. Tea

Why it works: The earthy, tannic qualities of tea balance Stilton’s richness.

What to try: A robust black tea like Earl Grey or Assam works well, or try a spiced chai for a seasonal touch.

5. Non-Alcoholic Sparkling Drinks

Why it works: The bubbles and acidity in sparkling drinks cut through Stilton’s creaminess.

What to try: Sparkling water with a splash of cranberry or elderflower cordial adds a festive flair.

6. Hot Chocolate

Why it works: The sweetness and creaminess of hot chocolate provide a surprising but delightful contrast to Stilton’s tangy flavour.

What to try: Use dark chocolate for a more sophisticated pairing.

Tips for Pairing Drinks with Stilton

Balance the flavours: Pair Stilton’s saltiness and tang with drinks that offer sweetness, richness, or acidity.

Experiment: Everyone’s palate is different, so don’t be afraid to try new combinations to find your favourite.

Serve appropriately: Ensure your drinks are served at the correct temperature to bring out their best flavours.

A Perfect Pairing for Every Occasion

Whether you’re enjoying a quiet evening by the fire or hosting a festive gathering, the right drink can transform your Stilton experience. From the classic pairing of port to creative non-alcoholic options like pear juice or spiced tea, there’s a perfect match for every taste and occasion.

This Christmas, take the time to savour the magic of Stilton paired with your favourite drinks. It’s a festive indulgence you won’t regret!