This Sunday, April 29, is the annual Carolina Mountain Cheese Fest at Highland Brewing Company in Asheville. This event benefits the WNC Cheese Trail and gives hard-core cheese lovers time to meet with cheese makers, sample products and make purchases. Other events include local chef cook-offs, a kids corral, petting zoo, cheese-making demonstrations, and yogurt-making demonstrations. Tickets are available in advance or at the door. Admission is limited.
Cheese boards, providing a sample of different flavors and styles of cheese, have increased in popularity as options for appetizers at restaurants, wine shops as well as a classy way to entertain at home. Check out a few suggestions below for help in creating a classic cheese board, or make up your own flavor palate. Just remember you typically want to include a firm (Manchego), aged (cheddar or Gouda), blue (Danish Blue or Gorgonzola) and a soft (brie or goat cheese)—depending on your preference.
Choose North Carolina cheeses available on the cheese trail or for sale at your local farmers market. For an interesting and state-inspired way to serve your cheese, check out this state-shaped serving board from Our State Magazine.
A sample cheese board (Image from WNC Cheese Trail)
North Carolina-inspired cheese board:
The best way to store cheese? In a resealable tub to protect from drafts and fridge odors. Store in an area where your fridge stays the warmest and serve at room temperature.