Dairy UK has today announced the launch of a new cheese pairing app aimed at consumers, which it claims is the first of its kind to pair British cheeses with whisky and port.
The app, which features around 50 Dairy UK member cheeses, provides consumers with expert recommendations on pairing British cheese with different varieties of whisky or port for the perfect cheeseboard combinations.
Christmas cheese sales are a significant boost for the dairy industry with sales showing growth in recent years.
Last Christmas, an increase in cheese, milk sales as well as the higher butter prices saw a significant seasonal uplift in dairy sales compared to the year before.
According to Kantar Worldpanel, the category was worth £2.4 billion in the 12 weeks to December 31, 2017, 7% more than a year earlier.
Although this was partially a reflection of higher prices – particularly, butter prices – volume growth on 2016 levels was also recorded for most products.
Initially launching with whisky and port pairings, the new app will be expanded in 2019 to include other recommendations including wine, beer and other spirits such as gin or vodka.
The guide also offers cheeseboard tips and inspiration with users able to set up a profile to save their favourite pairings and products for quick reference.
Commenting on the launch, Dr. Judith Bryans, chief executive of Dairy UK said: “A cheeseboard is a must over the festive period, so we could think of no better time to launch the Cheese Pairing app and help consumers make their cheeseboards that little bit more special.
“Our innovative and fun app is the first of its kind to pair cheese with whiskies.
We can often forget just how versatile British cheeses are and that they make great pairings not just with wine, but a whole range of other foods and drink.
The app can be found and downloaded from your relevant app store- just search ‘Cheese Pairing’, or alternatively, from the Cheese Pairing website.
