5 great picnic cheeses
This article was originally published in June 2014
Some cheeses come with their own built-in accessories, making them ideal for spontaneous get-togethers with friends when we luck into a warm, sunny day. There’s no particular need for additional condiments, because these cheeses feature herbs and spices that are either mixed in as they’re made, or sprinkled on top after pressing — or in one case, both, for extra flavor.
Cypress Grove Purple Haze
The warmth of an afternoon in the garden is contained in this fresh goat cheese, which is sprinkled with fennel pollen and lavender. Just add a baguette and your favorite white wine.
Fromage d’Affinois Garlic & Herb
A dense, almost fudgy, Brie-style cheese that is generously accented with garlic and a traditional blend of parsley, chives, tarragon and chervil. Delectable with Olli salame and a pale ale.
Orange Windmill Leyden
A classic Dutch cheese, plentiful cumin seeds define the spicy, tangy flavor, and a firm texture makes it nicely packable. Pair with dark rye and a crisp lager.
Long Clawson Cotswold
A rich, creamy English cheddar blended with chives and green onions, this flavor-packed cheese goes wonderfully with cherry tomatoes, crusty bread and a glass of hard cider.
Montchevre-Betin Garlic & Herb
Soft enough to spread on your favorite crackers, this garlicky goodness is perfect to munch on alongside sweet carrots. Knudsen’s Sparkling Organic Pear juice is a fresh and fizzy accompaniment.