The Smoked Gouda is mild but nutty with a long creamy finish and wonderful texture. It needs a textured beer than can take on the smoke. A malty lager works well, without a hoppy profile. Vienna lagers have distinct malty qualities and are slightly sweet, with a nice bitter finish.
They can be a bit earthy too. The Vienna lager adds a bit more hop zest, which works fine as this cheese is so buttery.