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When they’re done right, food and whisky pairings can be transcendental. There’s an undeniable alchemy between food and drink that takes both elements to new places, adding layers of flavor and nuance you wouldn’t get when enjoying one or the other on its own.
With a few tips and a license to experiment, you’re on your way.
We’ve organized our pairing recommendations by whisky style to ease the journey. Don’t be afraid to experiment, you may discover your ultimate pairing!
The classic, easy-drinking nature of Pendleton® Whisky Original is one of the most versatile for food pairings. When pairing it up, choose dishes that aren’t overly spicy or rich, as they may overpower the more subtle notes in the whisky.
SMOKED SALOM CANAPÉS
Begin your meal with a timeless, elegant bite: smoked salmon canapés that blend luxurious texture with bright, balanced flavor. Start by spreading a generous layer of cream cheese onto a crisp toast point, soft blini, or mini naan. Gently drape a ribbon of smoked salmon over the top, allowing it to fold naturally into soft curves. Add a small sprig of fresh dill for aromatic lift, then finish with a squeeze of fresh lemon juice to cut through the richness and enliven the palate. These canapés come together quickly with minimal prep, yet deliver a harmonious and sophisticated start. Simple but with amazing taste.
GRILLED LAMB CHOPS WITH HERB BUTTER
Marinate the chops in olive oil, salt, pepper, fresh rosemary, and thyme for an hour and grill to your preferred doneness. Melt butter in a saucepan, add herbs, and stir until fragrant. Drizzle herb butter over the chops before serving. Harmonious and elegant!
LEMON TART
Finish your meal with freshness: the tartness of the lemon and the buttery crust will satisfy and refresh your taste buds.
PROSCIUTTO-WRAPPED MELON SLICES
The contrast of sweet, juicy melon enveloped in thin slices of savory prosciutto offers a beautiful balance of flavors and textures that pairs exquisitely with the richness of Pendleton® Whisky Midnight, enhancing its depth and complexity.
BRAISED SHORT RIBS
The tender, melt-in-your-mouth meat, slow-cooked with a savory bacon, herb, and beef broth reduction complements Pendleton® Whisky Midnight’s deep flavors. Serve with creamy mashed potatoes and roasted root vegetables for a decadent dining experience.
PECAN PIE
There’s nothing quite like a slice of decadent pecan pie with a side of Pendleton® Whisky Midnight. It’s pure luxury, the pie echoing the caramelized toffee notes and finishing with nutty goodness.
ROASTED FIGS WITH GORGONZOLA
Dried figs echo notes in the whisky, while creamy, rich, and tangy gorgonzola creates a stunning backdrop for the complex and smoky flavors without overpowering the subtle nuances.
GRILLED SKIRT STEAK WITH CHIMICHURRI
The charred, smoky flavors of grilled skirt steak are the perfect foil for the spicy, peppery notes of Pendleton® Whisky 1910 Rye.
Chimichurri sauce is easy to make but can also be purchased. Combine oregano, parsley, garlic, and chili with olive oil, vinegar, and sea salt, whisk together, and voila! Serve with grilled asparagus and roasted potatoes.
CINNAMON RAISIN BREAD PUDDING WITH MAPLE SAUCE
Warm cinnamon and sweet maple envelope the palate with toothsome comfort. This soft and rich bread pudding contrasts the whisky’s spiciness, making each bite an indulgence.
GRILLED PEACHES AND BURRATA SALAD
Caramelized peaches and creamy burrata cheese topped with chopped basil and pine nuts and drizzled with honey and balsamic is the taste of summertime. The fruit’s sweetness and cheesy richness are the perfect support for this lusciously warm and sweet bourbon.
SMOKED BRISKET WITH A BOURBON GLAZE
Low and slow is the way to go! There’s nothing quite like a brisket glazed with a bourbon-infused sauce to capture the essence of Pendleton® 1910 Bourbon. Deep, smoky flavors complement the bourbon’s warm, sweet profile, while the glaze adds a layer of intrigue. Set aside time to make this delicious brisket recipe; you won’t be disappointed.
SALTED CARAMEL CHEESECAKE
Creamy, rich cheesecake with a swirl of salted caramel is the perfect pairing for Pendleton® 1910 Bourbon. The sumptuous texture and sweet, salty caramel enhance the bourbon’s complexity, while the cheesy richness matches its texture, note for note.
Now that you have your menu ideas sorted, the only thing left is to pair them with some whisky. Shop Pendleton® Whisky today and try these fabulous pairings to take your whisky enjoyment to new levels.