When the weather heats up, so does our craving for relaxed, flavour-forward entertaining. Whether you’re planning a patio party, hosting friends at the cottage, or just having a backyard hang, there’s one pairing that is sure to deliver the ‘wow-factor’: cheese and cocktails.
In celebration of our upcoming event with Dillon’s Small Batch Distillers, we’re diving into how to pair cheeses with some of our favourite summer spirits from Dillon’s. These ideas double as grazing board inspiration and post-event takeaways for recreating the magic at home.
1. Gin & Fresh Goat Cheese
Dillon’s Unfiltered Gin 22 is crisp, aromatic, and botanical, making it perfect alongside tangy, creamy, fresh goat cheese. Add a drizzle of honey and a sprig of thyme and serve with seeded crackers and a gin & tonic for a refreshing start and elevated touch.
Why it works: The gin’s citrus and floral notes balance beautifully with the brightness of the goat cheese.
2. Strawberry Cocktail & Triple Cream Brie
Sweet, fruity cocktails like a strawberry spritz or Dillon’s Strawberry Gin Lemonade recipe pair perfectly with a rich, triple-cream brie. Add fresh, seasonal berries like strawberries, blueberries or raspberries and almond biscotti to your board for texture and colour.
Why it works: The cocktail’s light acidity cuts through the brie’s richness, while the berry notes tie it all together.
3. Old Fashioned Whisky & Aged Cheddar
If you’re sipping something stronger like Dillon’s Rye Whisky for your Old Fashioned, go bold with a 2–3 year aged cheddar. Add roasted nuts, smoked meats, and dark chocolate to your grazing board for extra depth.
Why it works: The cheddar’s umami and sharpness stand up to the whisky’s spice and oak, creating a classic combo with edge.
4. Limoncello Spritz & Ricotta Salata
Bright, bubbly, and citrus-forward, a limoncello spritz loves the salty, firm bite of ricotta salata. Pair with grilled peaches or marinated olives for a sun-soaked Mediterranean vibe.
Why it works: The spritz refreshes your palate, while the cheese adds just enough savoury structure.
5. Negroni & Blue Cheese
For cocktail lovers who like a little bite, a Negroni with Dillon’s Dry Gin is a natural match for bold, creamy blue cheese. Balance the board with sweet fig jam, candied walnuts, and crusty baguette slices.
Why it works: The bitter, herbal taste of a Negroni finds its match in the richness of a strong blue.
Expert Tips To Look Like A Pro
- Keep it cool: Use slate boards or chilled trays if serving outdoors.
- Add seasonal accents: Fresh herbs, edible flowers, grilled fruit, and vibrant vegetables will add colour, flavour and showcase the summer vibes.
- Label it up: Mini signs or handwritten tags help guests navigate bold flavours with ease.
Whether you’re grazing with friends, hosting the ultimate backyard hang, or just looking for an excuse to indulge, these pairings were made for summer entertaining. Come for the cocktails, stay for the cheese, and bring the flavour home all season long.
Come See Us At Dillon’s This Summer!
Want to taste them for yourself? Join us at Dillon’s Small Batch Distillers on June 22nd and 23rd, 11am-4pm, for our first pop-up of the season and enjoy a cocktail-fuelled celebration of all things cheese, spirits, and sunshine.
Make sure to tag us on Instagram at @chzplzniagara when you come to the event! See you soon!