When you think of cheese pairings, wine is usually the first thing that comes to mind. But tea, with its wide range of flavors and aromas, is an equally exciting companion for cheese. From robust black teas to delicate whites, tea has the versatility to balance and enhance the flavors of different cheeses. Whether you’re a tea lover looking to expand your palate or a cheese enthusiast seeking a new tasting experience, these tea and cheese pairings are sure to delight.
1. Green Tea & Goat Cheese
For a light and refreshing pairing, match green tea with the tangy, creamy texture of goat cheese. The vegetal notes in green tea bring out the freshness in goat cheese without overpowering it. Try with our Beachgrass Green tea.
2. Earl Grey & Blue Cheese
Earl Grey’s citrusy bergamot flavor is a perfect contrast to the bold, salty, and creamy flavors of blue cheese. The tea’s aromatic notes soften the sharpness of the cheese, creating a complex and satisfying taste. Try with our Fog Horn Grey tea.
3. Darjeeling & Gouda
Darjeeling, known for its floral and fruity undertones, pairs beautifully with the nutty, slightly sweet flavor of Gouda. For the best result, opt for a second flush Darjeeling, which tends to have a fuller body and richer flavor, complementing the caramel notes of Gouda.
4. Oolong & Brie
The semi-oxidized nature of Oolong teas, like Tie Guan Yin or Dong Ding, gives them a unique balance of floral and fruity notes. These teas work well with the creamy, buttery texture of Brie, offering a blend of richness and freshness. Try with our Oysterville Oolong tea.
5. Pu-erh & Aged Cheddar
Pu-erh’s earthy, sometimes smoky flavors stand up well to the sharp and complex profile of aged cheddar. This pairing is bold and intense, but the richness of both the tea and the cheese creates a harmonious experience.
6. Chamomile & Fresh Mozzarella
For a light and delicate pairing, try chamomile tea with fresh mozzarella. The gentle, floral quality of chamomile enhances the creamy and mild flavor of mozzarella without overwhelming it. Try with our Embrace the Beach Life tea.
7. White Tea & Ricotta
White tea, particularly a Silver Needle variety, has a subtle sweetness that pairs beautifully with the creamy texture of ricotta. The floral and fruity notes of the tea highlight the natural sweetness in the cheese, making for a soft, comforting pairing. Try with our Peninsula High Tide tea.
8. Chai & Cheddar
Chai tea, with its warm spices like cinnamon, cardamom, and cloves, pairs surprisingly well with the sharpness of cheddar. The spices in the chai bring out new depths in the cheddar’s flavor, creating an exciting contrast. Try with our White Cap Chai tea.
9. Herbal Tea & Fresh Chevre
For a refreshing match, pair a mint or basil herbal tea with fresh chevre. The bright, aromatic qualities of the tea complement the tangy, creamy nature of the cheese, making for a light yet flavorful experience. Try with our Mountain Valley Mint tea.
10. Black Tea & Parmesan
A strong, robust black tea like Assam or Ceylon is perfect for pairing with hard cheeses like Parmesan. The boldness of the tea stands up to the salty, nutty flavors of the Parmesan, creating a balanced and satisfying match. Try with our Astoria Explorer tea.
Tea and cheese may seem like an unconventional pairing, but with the right combinations, it can be just as rewarding as the classic wine and cheese duo. The subtle nuances of tea provide endless possibilities for exploration, from floral and fruity to smoky and earthy, making it a perfect partner for cheese. So next time you’re curating a cheese board, don’t forget to steep a pot of tea to take your tasting experience to the next level.
Experiment, sip, and savor!
