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WELCOME TO THE ON TAP CURDBOX!
Every hour is happy hour here at curdbox, and this month we are embarking on a culinary adventure where the world of cheese intertwines with the rich tapestry of "on-tap" beverages. We’ll explore delicious cheeses, some infused with the nuanced flavors of beer and the intricate dance of tastes that arise from this harmonious combination. So, come along on our journey through the fusion of drinks and cheeses, where each bite (and sip) promises an unforgettable flavor experience.
So, let’s take a look at this month’s box...
Chandoka by LaClare Creamery
LaClare Family Creamery, a beacon of excellence in the realm of goat milk dairy, epitomizes American craftsmanship with its 100% domestically produced goat cheese, sourced from the heart of Wisconsin's Dairyland. Among its distinguished offerings is Chandoka, a cave-aged marvel crafted in the image of New Zealand-style cheddar. Blending 70% whole pasteurized cow's milk with 30% goat's milk, this cheese undergoes a meticulous ripening process exceeding four months, its journey guided by LaClare's commitment to quality. Unlike its other counterparts, Chandoka is flipped during aging, directing fats downward to imbue the cheese with moisture and sweetness, enhancing its fruity and buttery essence. The result is a tantalizing interplay of flavors—a marriage of sweet, fruity notes from the cow's milk intertwined with savory tanginess derived from the goat's milk. LaClare Farms' Chandoka stands as a testament to the artistry and innovation of American cheesemaking— a mild yet complex fusion of tradition and ingenuity.
Chandoka by LaClare Creamery with the Bacon & Jalapeno Mustard by Pilsudski's
Quadrupel Belgian Beer Cheese
Indulge in the exquisite harmony of flavors embodied in this rich Quadrupel Belgian Beer cheese, a fusion of two beloved Belgian classics: trappist-style cheese and St. Bernardus Abt 12 Belgian beer. Renowned globally for its unparalleled quality, St. Bernardus Abt 12 adheres faithfully to its original 1946 recipe, boasting a deep, amber hue and a perfect balance of malty richness, bitterness, and sweetness typical of quadrupel-style beers. Infused with this exceptional brew, Quadrupel cheese tantalizes the palate with hoppy notes that dance delicately amidst its smooth, creamy texture. Drawing inspiration from the monastic traditions of Belgian Trappist monks, whose dedication to craftsmanship spans centuries, this cheese pays homage to La Trappe Quadrupel ale, resulting in a robust, malty sweetness that intertwines seamlessly with its creamy profile. Trappist cheese, a product steeped in history and tradition, finds its origins in 18th-century France, where Roman Catholic monks at the Notre Dame de Port du Salut abbey first crafted this delicacy as both sustenance and a source of income.
The Quadrupel Belgian Beer Cheese and Evil Snacks' Crunchy Mushroom Chips
Hoch Ybrig by Rolf Beeler
Nestled in the picturesque landscapes of Kussnacht, Switzerland, Hoch Ybrig stands as a testament to the artistry of affineur Rolf Beeler and cheesemaker Josef Werder. This rustic cow's milk cheese, similar to Gruyère in its crafting, undergoes a transformation during its 8 months of aging as it is delicately washed in local cider by Beeler, evoking a subtle sweetness that harmonizes with its bold flavor profile. Named after the towering Hoch Ybrig mountain overlooking Lake Lucerne, where Werder's dairy finds its home, this cheese embodies Beeler's passion for innovation and collaboration. Crafted from raw milk sourced from cows grazing on fresh grass and hay, Hoch Ybrig embodies the essence of the countryside. Beneath its white wine brine-washed rind, this cheese reveals a dense yet smooth texture, exuding nutty, buttery aromas with a hint of pungency. Its flavors, delicately balanced between saltiness and acidity, culminate in a sweet, lingering finish
The Hoch Ybrig from Rolf Beeler with the Salt & Black Pepper Pretzels from Ontap Kitchen
And here are the pairing items that go along with these amazing cheeses…
Crunchy Mushroom Chips by Evil Snacks
Evil Snacks Crispy Mushroom Chips, a culinary marvel hailing from Las Vegas, redefine snacking with their simple yet irresistible allure. Made from hand-picked, 100% whole oyster mushrooms, each chip encapsulates the earthy essence of real mushrooms, expertly crafted into crispy perfection. With a commitment to wholesome indulgence, Evil Snacks delivers a burst of natural umami, satisfying cravings while tantalizing taste buds with rich, savory goodness. Created with a mission to provide a healthier alternative to traditional snacks, these chips embody the perfect balance of flavor and nutrition. Grown organically without the use of synthetic fertilizers or pesticides, the mushrooms are meticulously curated to ensure the highest quality, guaranteeing a guilt-free snacking experience that delights with every crunch. Encapsulating the pure essence of nature's bounty, Evil Snacks Crispy Mushroom Chips is a harmonious marriage of simplicity and delight.
Salt & Black Pepper Pretzels by Ontap Kitchen
Hailing from Colorado, Ontap Kitchen's Salt & Black Pepper Pretzels redefine the crunchy pretzel experience with a bold twist of flavor and innovation. Born from a moment of culinary inspiration fueled by beer and empty stomachs, these pretzels shatter expectations by marrying the satisfying crunch of traditional snacks with the robust taste of whole wheat and rye. Infused with just the right amount of black pepper, complemented by hints of onion and garlic, each bite delivers a delightful kick balanced by layers of savory goodness. Crafted from locally sourced ingredients, these intensely crunchy yet light and airy pretzels challenge convention, proving that snacking perfection can indeed be achieved outside the realm of flat, extruded blandness.
Bacon & Jalapeno Mustard by Pilsudski Mustard
Pilsudski's Bacon Jalapeno Mustard epitomizes the essence of flavor mastery with its perfect blend of smokiness and heat, encapsulated in a creamy, indulgent texture. Rooted in the culinary traditions of Southeastern Pennsylvania, this mustard reflects the vision of Mike Marcinko, a seasoned entrepreneur whose familial ties to the food industry sparked the inception of Pilsudski LLC in 2015. Drawing inspiration from his great grandmother's cherished hot horseradish recipe— Marcinko's commitment to quality shines through in every jar. Infused with tantalizing hints of bacon and jalapeno, this condiment proves Pilsudski's dedication to crafting exceptional flavors as well as its unwavering dedication to quality and taste.
And with that- we wrap up this month’s box.
So raise your glasses and let’s toast to the delightful marriage of these two beloved indulgences, and to the wonderful flavors and delghtful times they bring to us all.
We’ll see you next month.
Did you take some photos while enjoying this box that you were thinking of adding to Instagram? Please tag us @curdbox along with our cheese and pairing- partners: @laclarecremery, @rolfbeeler, @eatevilsnacks, @ontapkitchen, and @pilsudskimustard. We love to see our cheese lovers enjoying their boxes!
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