Italy produces a wide range of exquisite, flavorful cheeses that rival any in the world.
More Italian Cheese Here
Classic wine and cheese pairings
 While
volumes have been written about pairing wine with cheese, considerably less time
has been devoted to the topic of what else to serve with cheese.
Cerise Noire Preserve This often
overlooked aspect can be as integral and rewarding as perfectly pairing that
prized Pinot Noir. Aside from a few devoted cheese purists, whose never-ending
commitment to unadorned cheeses is seemingly fuelled by the belief that any
additional flavor will detract from the cheese itself, most would enjoy
exploring the many cheese/accompaniment pairings the world has to offer.
As with classic wine and cheese pairings, traditional food accompaniments are
regional by nature. Observe the time-honored marriage of fruity chutney and
sharp, tangy Cheddar from the South of England; sweet Membrillo (quince paste)
lending moisture and natural sweetness to the dry sheep's milk cheeses of La
Mancha; viscous aged Balsamic drizzled sparingly, balancing the wonderful
spiciness of aged Grana Padano. Each of these pairings represents local cuisine
at its best.
Fruit-based cheese accompaniments are the most common, and rarely yield
disappointing results. Nothing adds a deliciously chewy texture to a French
triple crème like juicy prunes. Along the same lines, roasted figs add character
to mild Greek Manouri. Fresh fruits require a little more care, as their acidity
levels and sharpness of flavor can overwhelm.
 In Europe, cheese is rarely served alone.
Canadian Proscuitto . Proscuitto in Italy, Serrano in Spain
and Bundnerfleisch in Switzerland are all served with local cheeses. Often,
particularly in the Mediterranean, olives will assume the supporting role,
complementing young fresh cheeses with their meaty texture and depth of flavor.
Pistachios, almonds, walnuts and pecans are always welcome at the cheese plate,
although a freshness code is strictly enforced. Pickled vegetables can add a
lovely crispness, while roasted ones match well with tangier cheeses. Fresh
herbs can add subtle transformations to already terrific cheeses, while
deceptively spicy PepperJam can liven up a Brie party. Of course, great bread
can be a revelation. Try olive & rosemary bread with Pecorino, sourdough with
tangy goat cheese, or black bread with creamy Scandinavian cheeses.
Although, as in wine, there are a few general rules that hold pretty well,
personal taste and experimentation will likely prove more fruitful and
enjoyable. So dig deep into the dark recesses of your pantry and break open a
couple of cheeses. You might yet find use for that homemade "relish" your
mother-in-law gave you during her last visit.
Click Here! to see our full listing of cheese accompaniments
Italy produces a wide range of exquisite, flavorful cheeses that rival any in the world.
More Italian Cheese Here
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