craftygal travels - Hosting a Cheese Tasting

Faith’s Dictionary: Cheese

Some other ideas for hosting a cheese tasting

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The Cheesiest Celebration

by Jan

Holidays don't come any cheesier than Valentine’s Day. From the excess of corny sentiments to the over abundance of heart and rose-shaped chocolates this is a day that simply revels in schmaltz. Rather than make our usual attempt to dodge all vestiges of these cliched expressions of love, the Craftygal crew has decided to throw ourselves into the love fondue and host a celebratory cheese tasting. If you’re curious about cheeses, this is a great way to explore new flavors. Won't you join us?

The Menu

After a little experimenting, we came up with four cheese groupings, each centered around a beverage of choice. Whether you're hosting wine lovers, guests with an ardor for beer, folks who prefer their romance elegant and alcohol free, or friends who opt for love American style, we have tasty menus to suit. Plan to have about 3 ounces total of cheese per guest. To share expenses, ask each guest to bring a particular cheese or accompaniment while you provide the beverages.

The Wine and Dine
Beverage: Merlot
Cheeses: Gouda, Asiago, Provolone
Accompaniments: Red grapes, Toasted almonds, Dark bread

Cheers and Beers
Beverage: Pale ale
Cheeses: Mild cheddar, Domestic feta, Baby Swiss
Accompaniments: Pretzels, Crusty bread, Toasted walnuts, Apples

The Sparkler
Beverage: Sparkling cider
Cheeses: Gruyere, Cheddar, Gouda
Accompaniments: Toasted almonds, Dark breads, Fresh figs

The American
Beverage: Root beer
Cheeses: Cheez Whiz, Spray cheese, Velveeta slices
Accompaniments: Beer nuts, Bugles, Twinkies

Serving

Serving cheeses fresh from the refrigerator dulls down their flavor. Take the cheese out of the fridge about 15 minutes to half an hour before serving them (in cool weather).

Serve cheeses on wooden boards, large platters, or marble trays with a knife for each cheese. Don't group hard and soft cheeses on the same serving dish. Add a paper leaf for extra panache. Use cheese flags to identify each variety, or make your own out of toothpicks and paper. Arrange accompaniments nearby. Enjoy!