September 20, 2022
Cheese Wisdom: Semi-soft Irish Blue
A Farmhouse cheese made by second generation cheesemakers
The Cheese: Cashel Blue Cheese, made by J&L Grubb in Tipperary County, Ireland
Available at: The Loyalist Market, Matthews
Price: $32.99/lb.
The Style: Semi-soft, cow’s milk with fine veins of blue, very spreadable as it is aged for 6-10 weeks
Flavor Profile: Buttery cream, mild, low salt, edible rind, not aggressive like longer aged blue cheeses
How to Enjoy: Spread on mild crackers or celery. Figs are in season, and this cheese is beautiful with figs and a drizzle of local honey. Serve with fresh local tomatoes, a grind of pepper, and a few blackberries. Stir half a round into hot polenta – a great combination.
Wine Pairings: Gewurztraminer, Sauternes, Rioja, grenache, fruity chimay beer.
Extra Reading: The Grubb family has 200 acres of cows and sheep. They have been in business for 40 years. The third generation is learning to hand-make the various cheeses they offer. Queen Elizabeth was very impressed in 2012 with the quality of Cashel Blue. The rennet used is vegetarian.
