Overlooked ClassicTomme de Savoie Genepi Located in Northwestern France, bordering Switzerland is where we find Savoie. A small mountainous region that boasts some of the most beautiful parts of the Alps, the region’s agricultural wealth is often eclipsed by its beautiful landscape. Despite Savoie’s size, the region has over 60 PDO cheeses, ranging from soft and creamy Reblochon to robust Alpines like Beaufort. Today, however, we will focus on a true farmstead cheese that represents the farm life of the region; Tomme de Savoie. Originally created as a way for farmers to use the lower fat milk leftover after making butter, Tomme de Savoie is made in a variety of fats, the most traditional being lean. Though there are many variations on this cheese in Savoie, its protected status guarantees quality cow’s milk across the board and its average 2-4 months of aging produces a cheese with a creamy, yielding texture. Known for its dusty gray natural rind, Tomme de Savoie is very much considered an “everyday” cheese, but don’t let that dissuade you. This cheese is a sleeper hit for any crowd, with all the complexity of stronger cheeses balanced by a pleasant creaminess. Cheese Bar’s Tomme de Savoie is an Herve Mons selection from the farmstead producer Genepi. Named for a wildflower that grows throughout Savoie, Genepi cheeses represent the variety of style Savoie is known for. From the herd of about 100 pasture-fed cows, they produce a rare full fat Tomme de Savoie. Aged for 60 days, the Genepi Tomme de Savoie is delicately earthy, with pronounced sweet, lactic flavors. We recommend pairing with Portland’s own 3 Little Figs brand jams, that ride the same sweet and savory balance as this Tomme. Go traditional with the Balsamic and Fresh Fig, or for a robust savory option, their French Onion Confit. Single Varietal Wine Tasting Thursday, January 16th Tomorrow evening, Elliot Karpman from PDX Wines will be at the shop pouring a variety of wines that are perfect for the cold winter weather that we’ve been experiencing. Elliot will be sharing four delicious single varietal wines from Austria, France, Italy, and Spain. Here’s this week’s lineup: Vorspannhof Mayer, Gruner Veltliner, 2018, Niederosterreicch, Austria This Gruner is a straightforward table wine. It is fruit-driven and light-bodied. A perfect accompaniment to fondue or tartiflette. Chateau Guilhem, “Pot de Vin,” Organic Merlot, 2018, France That’s right, it’s 100% Merlot. The 2004 film, Sideways, drew a lot of attention to the bad reputation of California’s Merlot. We believe it’s time to give Merlot another try. “Pot de Vin” is a great place to start. We hope you’ll come down and give this delicious wine a try. FUSO21, “Brusco”, Organic Sangiovese, Toscany, Italy “Brusco” is a beautiful, rustic red wine. A beautiful expression of Sangiovese, both the grapes and the soil shine. Notes of strawberry, balsamic, fresh herbs can be found on the palate. “Brusco” is medium-bodied and lightly tannic. It is perfect for sipping while eating pasta or red meats. Alta Alella, “GX,” Organic Garnatxa Negra, 2018, Catalunya DO, Spain Notes of red fruits and violets are balanced with fine tannins in this Spanish Garnacha. This wine has a nice acidity, making it easy to sip without food. It will also pair well with red meat and Spanish cheeses. We hope you can come down to the shop and taste through these lovely wines. As always, the tasting is complimentary. Raclette Night is Back!! Every Wednesday until Spring 5:30pm until the cheese is gone!  Every Wednesday until the tulips come up in the spring, we will be doing traditional Raclette service. Starting at 5:30 and going until the cheese is gone! We cut a quarter wheel of Raclette for service every event, so get in early because it could go quick! $7 per plate Roasted Potatoes, Ham, Cornichons and House Mustard all topped with ooey, gooey Raclette See you there! Cheese Bar 6031 SE Belmont Street Portland, OR 97215 503-222-6014 |
