When we think of cheese pairings, wine and maybe even beer come to mind—but rum? Believe it or not, rum and cheese are a match made in culinary heaven. The sweetness, warmth, and complexity of rum can enhance cheese’s creamy, tangy, or nutty flavors in ways that might surprise you. From sharp aged cheddar to buttery brie, here’s your guide to pairing rum and cheese for a tasting experience that’s anything but ordinary.
Why Rum & Cheese Work So Well Together
Rum is a spirit with a vast range of flavors, from caramel and vanilla to tropical fruit and spice. It has enough depth to stand up to strong, aged cheeses, while its natural sweetness can cut through salty, creamy textures beautifully. And while both rum and cheese have bold flavors on their own, when paired thoughtfully, they complement each other in exciting, delicious ways. Plus, let’s face it—pairing rum and cheese just feels a little rebellious!
Tips for the Perfect Rum & Cheese Pairing
Before we dive into specific pairings, here are a few tips to get the most out of your rum and cheese experience:
1. Start with Aged Rum: Aged rums tend to have deeper, more complex flavors that balance well with cheese.
2. Consider Contrast: A strong cheese goes well with a smoother, sweeter rum, while a mild cheese can be elevated by a spiced or overproof rum.
3. Sip and Savor: Taste the rum and cheese separately first, then try them together to see how the flavors interact.
Ready? Here are five rum and cheese pairings to get you started, with options for every cheese-lover’s taste.
1. Aged Gouda & Dark Rum
Pairing: Aged gouda with a dark rum (like Mount Gay Black Barrel or Appleton Estate 12 Year)
Why It Works: Aged gouda has a nutty, caramelized flavor with tiny crystals that add a satisfying crunch. Pairing it with a dark rum, rich in vanilla, caramel, and oak notes, brings out those toasty flavors while the sweetness in the rum balances the cheese’s slight saltiness. Together, they create a smooth, dessert-like experience that’s hard to beat.
Perfect For: Cozy nights in, cheese platters, or when you’re craving a rich, indulgent snack.
2. Sharp Cheddar & Spiced Rum
Pairing: Sharp cheddar with spiced rum (like The Kraken or Sailor Jerry)
Why It Works: Sharp cheddar has a bold, tangy flavor that needs an equally bold partner. Spiced rum, with its cinnamon, clove, and vanilla notes, adds warmth to the cheddar’s sharpness, creating a balance of sweet and savory. The spices elevate the cheddar without overpowering it, and the rum’s richness makes each bite more flavorful.
Perfect For: Casual get-togethers, game nights, or adding an interesting twist to classic comfort food.
3. Brie & Coconut Rum
Pairing: Creamy brie with coconut rum (like Malibu or Koloa Coconut Rum)
Why It Works: Brie’s buttery, mellow flavor pairs beautifully with the sweet, tropical notes of coconut rum. The coconut adds a hint of sweetness that complements the brie’s creaminess without overwhelming it. Together, they’re like a tropical vacation wrapped in a rich, creamy texture—a pairing that feels indulgent but light.
Perfect For: Brunch, outdoor gatherings, or a relaxing afternoon snack with a tropical flair.
4. Blue Cheese & Overproof Rum
Pairing: Bold blue cheese with overproof rum (like Wray & Nephew or Smith & Cross)
Why It Works: Blue cheese is intense, tangy, and funky, which makes it the perfect match for the strong character of overproof rum. The high proof cuts through the cheese’s richness and creates a surprisingly harmonious flavor. The rum’s heat and bold flavors mellow out the blue cheese’s sharpness, creating a balanced bite that’s unexpectedly addictive.
Perfect For: Adventurous pairings, impressing guests, or any time you want to try something a little bold and daring.
5. Parmesan & Aged Rum
Pairing: Aged parmesan with aged rum (like Diplomatico Reserva Exclusiva or Zacapa 23)
Why It Works: Parmesan’s nutty, salty, and slightly fruity flavor works wonders with an aged rum. The rich caramel and honey notes in aged rum balance the saltiness of parmesan, while the cheese’s crystalline texture contrasts beautifully with the smooth, sweet rum. It’s a pairing that feels refined yet approachable, perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your cheese board.
Perfect For: Sophisticated cheese boards, tastings, or impressing at dinner parties.
A Few Extra Pairing Tips
• Experiment: Don’t be afraid to mix and match! Rum and cheese pairings are all about finding what works for your palate.
• Consider Temperature: Take both your rum and cheese out ahead of time. Room temperature brings out more flavors in both.
• Take It Slow: Sip, taste, and enjoy each combination to fully experience the flavors—rum and cheese are meant to be savored!
The Bottom Line: Rum & Cheese Are Better Together
If you’re looking for an exciting new way to enjoy rum, or if you want to level up your next cheese board, give rum and cheese pairing a try. Whether you’re a fan of sharp cheddar or creamy brie, there’s a rum out there that will take your cheese experience to the next level. So grab your favorite bottle, pick out some cheeses, and let the flavor exploration begin. Cheers to a pairing as surprising as it is delicious!