Featured Cheese - November 2012

In the US, as well as Internationally, Grafton Village Cheese Company is renowned for its Cheddar products. They are part of the New Wave of American Farmhouse Cheesemakers, who have been energizing our taste buds with distinctive farmhouse cheeses for a decade or so. Quality and incredible tastes that will wake up your palate are still the hallmarks of this company's products. Their savory cheddars are made with milk from selected herds of Vermont Jersey cows, whose milk is known for its extraordinary creaminess and high butterfat content. Farmers owning these herds have signed affidavits stating that their animals will not be treated with synthetic bovine growth hormones. These cheddars are 100% natural, and free of any chemical preservatives or additives.

Most Pecorinos are oily cheeses because sheep’s milk contains very high amounts of butterfat… one of the reasons this cheese is so delicious. So when Pecorino comes to room temperature don’t be surprised if you see beads of oil on the cheese, these are “butterfat tears” that weep naturally from the cheese, and they indicate that it’s the perfect temperature for eating. Pecorino is usually eaten as a table cheese but will occasionally be shaved on top of fresh beans (perfect for summer salads) or lightly sautéed greens. Try it instead of Parmigiano on your next bowl of pasta. Its flavor is dense and the peppercorn sensation will bring new dynamics to your next meal. This selection should be served with a full-bodied red wine.

A cheese that can be eaten any time during the day, it is also suitable for cooking, especially as stuffing and in recipes calling for coating as it melts easily with heat. Try it tucked inside a baked potato or a frankfurter. It's wonderful to spread over plain bread and over raisin bread. The creamy, soft and mild-flavored taste of the cheese combines perfectly with Pale Cream, a slightly sweet wine that subtly recovers the delicate flavor of the Tetilla.