On Rue Bonaparte in Old Nice, at number 26, one address has chosen to resolutely step off the beaten path of traditional fromagerie. Une Gorgée de Fromage, Une Tranche de Whisky is a concept unique in Nice — perhaps unique in France in its format — that marries a passion for affineur cheeses and single malt whiskies in a space that feels more like a gastronomic speakeasy than a classic fromagerie.
The concept rests on a tasting conviction: peated whisky pairs with powerful cheeses (blues, washed rinds) as wine pairs with soft pastes. Pairings that seem contradictory until tasted — which then reveal unexpected sensory complementarity. Guided tasting sessions explore these unusual pairings with a passionate host who explains each accord.
The cheese selection is carefully curated and rotating — around twenty affineur cheeses, with preference for powerful types pairing well with whisky: washed-rind cheeses (munster, époisses, maroilles), blues (roquefort, fourme d'Ambert, bleu d'Auvergne), strongly-flavoured pressed pastes (old comté, summer beaufort).
Open evenings only, Thursday to Saturday — a specific availability suited to nocturnal tastings and gastronomic evenings. The atmosphere is relaxed, warm and conducive to long conversations.
Cheese tasting from €12. Cheese + whisky tasting from €22.
Highlights: The concept is unanimously described as a revelation — visitors who came out of curiosity leave won over by cheese-whisky pairings. The atmosphere is described as unique in Nice. The host is cited as passionate and pedagogical. The roquefort-Islay pairing is particularly mentioned.
Areas for improvement: Thursday to Saturday evening-only opening is very restrictive. Capacity is limited — booking essential. The address is confidential.
Overall: Une Gorgée de Fromage is Nice's most original and most unexpected gastronomic experience on the cheese scene — an address to book without fail for a memorable evening.
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