The Big Cheese Taste Off

It’s official: cider is the best accompaniment to cheese. Well, that’s what the gathered punters at the Grain Barge judged after yesterday evening’s Big Cheese Taste Off, featuring cheese specially selected by Trethowan’s from St Nic’s Market.

The event was the culmination of an argument on Twitter between three Andrews, from Bristol Beer Factory, Orchard Pig cider and Hallgarten wine importers. Each thought that their drink went best with cider, so a taste-off was arranged and battle could commence.

Hosted by Bristol Ferry Boat owner and Matthew captain Rob Salvidge (left, in the pink shirt), the Taste Off was a chance for the Andrews to each espouse the virtues of their tipples, and the 30-stong people on the lower level of the Grain Barge to learn a little bit about matching food and drink, try some new cheese, cider, beer and wine, and participate in some lighthearted banter, while voting what drink went best with cheese.

We were very lucky to have four food and drink connoisseurs to guide us through the evening, which saw the noise levels rise as each round concluded and more drinks consumed.

Gorwydd Caerphilly cheese was paired with Dopff au Moulin Riesling, Orchard Pig Dry Cider and Bristol Beer Factory Sunrise. Next up was Keen’s Cheddar paired with Orchard Pig Medium Cider, BBF Exhibition and Rioja Crianza. And for round three, Stichelton was paired with BBF Milk Stout, Muscat Beaumes de Venise and Orchard Pig Medium Sparkling Cider.

Mark’s Bread, made next to the Bristol Beer Factory in Ashton, was also handed out as the event drew to a close.

“It’s great hearing people speaking with so much passion,” Rob Salvage said. That’s what this evening was all about, as well as to finally settle a score.

Watch out for more Taste Offs soon.

For more information about the food and drink featured yesterday, visit their websites: Trethowan’s Dairy, Bristol Beer Factory, The Orchard Pig and Hallgarten Wine.