How to Get Started with Tasting Cheese

If you're a cheese lover, like me, then this blog post is for you! I've always been fascinated by the process of tasting cheese. From the texture to how it melts in your mouth- there are so many factors that go into developing a palate for different varieties of cheeses. In order to help others get started with discovering their love for cheese, I have come up with some tips on how to start tasting cheese and what types of foods might be best paired with each variety.

Today, let's talk about cheese to start with.

Some cheeses are best served cold, like Brie and Camembert. Some of these French cheeses have a milder flavor that is perfect for serving at room temperature. They're nice because they won't go bad as fast as some other varieties do when out in the open air, so it's not as easy as throwing them in the fridge.

For those who want to explore a more crumbly cheese, then cheddar is perfect for you! It's also great because it can be served both cold or room temperature and goes well with things like crackers, breads, apples and other fruits as well.

Cheeses that have a stronger taste are great to serve when you're hosting a party or meal. They might be better served at room temperature, but can also work well as cold appetizers too because of their strong flavor.

And lastly are soft cheeses like, again Brie and Camembert that are best eaten fresh. These types of cheese should not be refrigerated so don't buy them unless you plan on eating them right away.

Other types of cheese that are worth trying out include Cheddar, Gouda, Cream Cheese and more.

What's your favorite type of cheese based on past experience?

Ok, let's talk more about getting started with tasting cheeses and deciding on what kind you want to try - whether it be a hard or soft variety. The type of cheese you usually like to eat may help you in finding something similar to try.

Next, where to go to find cheese of the different types you want to try. You can find cheeses at most grocery stores and specialty markets, but if you're not sure what kind of cheese is best for your taste buds, ask an employee or do some research online before making your purchase!

Once you decide the type of cheese, the next step is to select a cut. If you have never eaten this type of cheese before, it can be difficult to know what size would be best for your palate. Starting with smaller sizes may help ensure that you don't waste money on something too overwhelming and regretful!

Now, let's talk about pairing cheese. Believe it or not, there is a whole world of cheese-pairing knowledge out there. What wine goes best with what type of cheese? How do you know which pairing will be the best for your taste buds?

A few ideas for pairing are:

-Cheese with a lighter taste usually goes well with white wine. -A salty cheese paired best with sweet wines such as sherry or port.

-Creamy, soft cheeses go great with red wines that have more body and tannins like cabernet sauvignon.

Once you decide what type of cheese and what type of wine you're going to pair together, there are a few tricks that I have learned over the years.

-Pairing cheese and fruit is always a good choice! For example, figs go well with blue cheeses such as Roquefort or Gorgonzola because they both share a similar flavor profile.

Also, you can mix and match cheeses to create your own flavor profiles. For example, combining smoked Gouda cheese with a soft goat's milk cheddar creates an unforgettable blend of flavors that is salty, buttery, sweet and earthy all at the same time!

Here are my favorite wines paired with different types of cheese. The different types of wines are based on the region they come from.

-Parmesan and Sauvignon Blanc: The flavors in these two pair well together because each has a light, tangy flavor that doesn't overpower the other.

-Cheddar with Merlot: These two go great together for those who prefer rich, robust flavor you will enjoy the umami and earthiness that they offer.

-Feta cheese with Cabernet Sauvignon: The natural saltiness of these two serve as a great compliment to each other when paired together.

In closing, tasting cheese is an unforgettable blend of flavors that is salty, buttery, sweet, and earthy all at the same time! Enjoy your new adventure in tasting cheese! Now, if all of this is just too much to explore on your own, head to your favorite grocer and check out their cheese selection. They are typically eager to help and may offer some samples as well.

Also, having a record book to help with the process ideal. This can help you remember what you like and don't like as you explore.