“Cheese – milk’s leap toward immortality” -Clifton Fadiman
What are aperitivo bites without cheese?
A cheeseboard is simple, easy to prepare but a good one feels decadent, indulgent and lavish. A well-executed cheeseboard is perhaps the embodiment of Italian word spretzaturra: “a certain nonchalance, so as to conceal all art and make whatever one does or says appear to be without effort and almost without any thought about it”.
We’ve asked our local deli, Main Street Trading in St Boswells for some recommendations for pairing with Valentian Vermouth. As it is Scottish Food & Drink Fortnight 2020, celebrating the people who grow, make, cook and sell the best of Scotland it seems the perfect time to highlight this ‘local hero’…
Situated in the beautiful village of St Boswells near the river tweed and the stunning Eildon Hills – Mainstreet Trading (owned by Bill and Rosamund De La Hay) is a destination in itself: a bookshop, café, homeware and deli. It is a perfect haven for the discerning epicurean.
Bill De La Hay has made some delightful recommendations from some incredible Scottish Cheesemakers….
“Errington’s Lanark Blue is amazing and a definite fit with Valentian Vermouth”
“For those who like something a little more savoury, the momentous Isle of Mull cheddar [Reade Family Farm] with its sharp, tangy bite and saltiness is a great pairing with sweet fruitiness of Valentian”
Lastly, co-founder of Valentian Dominic Tait has selected one of his own personal favourites The Westray Wife by Wilsons of Orkney: “Salty and sweet paired with Valentian it goes almost slightly nutty. It’s got a great bite and gentle tanginess to it.”
We recommend the Rosemary & Sea Salt Crackers by Angelic Gluten Free in Inverness (also available from Main Street Trading).
We paired our cheese board with a Negroni made with equal parts Valentian Vermouth, Campari and William Kerr’s Gin by The Borders Distillery, and a simple Valentian Vermouth and tonic.
Cheers!
Valentian Vermouth Rosso is available from Main Street Deli, St Boswells. RSP £28.50