When it comes to warm-weather entertaining, nothing beats a casual beer and cheese spread. It’s low-effort, high-reward, and wildly delicious when done right. Whether you're kicking back at a backyard BBQ, relaxing on a lake dock, or curating the ultimate charcuterie board, here are five beer and cheese pairings we think you should try.
1. Pale Ale + Aged Cheddar
Pale ales—crisp, citrusy, and slightly bitter—pair beautifully with the sharp, crumbly bite of aged cheddar. The beer’s hoppy brightness cuts through the cheese’s richness, while the malt backbone supports its nutty undertones. It’s a classic combo that works in any season, but especially well when the cheddar’s coming fresh from a cooler on a hot day.
2. Witbier + Fresh Goat Cheese
Witbiers (Belgian-style wheat beers) bring a soft, citrusy lift to the tang of fresh goat cheese. Think zesty orange peel, a hint of spice, and just enough fizz to refresh your palate. Add some crackers and sliced cucumbers, and you’ve got yourself a light, elegant pairing fit for any sunny picnic.
3. IPA + Blue Cheese
Here’s where things get bold. The funk and salt of blue cheese find a perfect partner in the tropical bite of an IPA. The bitterness acts like a palate cleanser, while the beer’s juicy fruit character draws out hidden sweetness in the cheese. Love it or hate it, this pairing is unforgettable.
4. Saison + Brie or Camembert
Farmhouse saisons, with their earthy spice and effervescent character, are tailor-made for creamy soft cheeses. Brie or Camembert adds a buttery, mushroomy complexity that pairs well with the rustic funk of a well-crafted saison. Great with baguette slices and a dollop of jam.
5. Pilsner + Alpine-Style Cheese
A crisp pilsner brings just the right amount of snap to nutty, firm alpine cheeses like Gruyère or Comté. The beer’s clean profile lets the cheese shine, while its carbonation keeps everything from feeling too heavy. This duo is picnic-board perfection.
Build Your Own Beer & Cheese Board
Mix and match a few of these pairings for an easy, crowd-pleasing summer spread. Pro tips:
- Serve cheese at room temperature for best flavor
- Use crackers, fresh bread, nuts, dried fruit, and honey for texture and balance
-
Don’t overthink it—taste, sip, and have fun experimenting
Ready to build the ultimate summer beer board? Shop our curated beer bundles.
