Sloe gin and Stilton

The port and Stilton combo has become a bit of a cliché. Not that it doesn't work - it's hard to fault - but if you want to really impress your guests and take them out of their comfort zone, serve your stilton with a shot of sloe gin instead. It has much the same brambly flavour as a Late Bottled Vintage port but, despite being stronger, manages to taste lighter, fresher and less alcoholic.

Gordon's and Plymouth Gin both do a version but if you can find a bottle from a small artisanal producer, even better. In the UK Bramley and Gage (www.bramleyandgage.co.uk) does a good one, and also a very good damson gin which also works very well with blue cheese.