A Taste Worth Appreciating
Whether enjoying the taste of a finely crafted cheese by itself or paired with other foods and beverages, here are a few tips you can follow to bring out optimal flavors:
Warm to Room Temperature Back to top
Most cheese is best enjoyed after allowing it to warm up a bit, almost to room temperature – that’s when it’s at its peak flavor. Let the cheese sit, covered, for about 30 minutes or so after you take it out of the refrigerator.
Before you taste it, smell your cheese – it will enhance the flavor. When you do take a taste, breathe out through your nose and experience the subtle aromas.
Start at the Tip of Your Tongue Back to top
To best taste each cheese, start at the tip of your tongue and work it towards the back of your mouth. This allows all of your taste receptors to fully experience every flavor.
Sample each cheese starting from the center, working your way towards the outer edge, where the flavor is strongest. Taste the rind last.
Focus on the Characteristics Back to top
Take note of as many characteristics as you can: texture, density, intensity, acidity, fruitiness, saltiness, nuttiness and any other hints of delicate flavor.
Sample One Cheese at a Time Back to top
Sample each cheese on its own before you pair it with any other food or beverage to fully appreciate all its subtleties.
Start with a Mild Cheese Back to top
Serve several different types of cheese on the same plate to bring out the unique flavors in each one. However, it’s best to start out with mild varieties and work your way up to stronger ones.
Try Different Pairings Back to top
Pair cheese with wine, craft beer or fine foods. Different pairings can coax out different elements of the cheese you might not otherwise taste. Experiment to find your own interesting combinations or use our Cheese Pairing Tool.
Explore new tastes; visit a nearby specialty cheese store. Like fine wines, there are seemingly endless varieties to experience. Don’t be afraid to ask questions and let an expert help you.