Written by: Vonnie Drudy
Gotta Get a Gouda
Gorgonzola, Gruyere, Manchego…oh my! No, we’re not off to see the wizard – well, maybe the
cheese wizard…AKA, The Cheese Lady.
Tucked back from the road at 315 Fuller Av NE in Grand Rapids, beckons this charming yellow and white
striped emporium housing over 100 cheeses from around the world. And just as important, it houses
owner Heather Zinn and her staff, who will help you to fulfill your every cheesy desire.
October celebrates the one year anniversary for this Cheese Lady location (one of three West Michigan
franchise locations) and an open house is scheduled to be held in early October to celebrate (check Facebook or website for exact dates). Saturday wine and cheese pairing classes are another way Heather
and company connect with customers. And if you think you can only pair fancy-schmancy wines with
your dairy delights, think again: beer and cheese pairings are also in vogue and The Cheese Lady carries a
nice supply of local beers and ciders.
So, I know what you’re thinking: what is the most expensive cheese they carry? Funny you should ask,
because I also asked this same question to staff member, Megan Gedris, and she showed me a lovely
Epoisses for a mere $25 for a half-pound wheel. Megan tells me this cheese has a creamy texture and
yet is so stinky, it has actually been banned in cabs by cab drivers in France! I’m sure the rich, buttery,
salty flavor makes up for its pungent smell or at least it should.
During my visit, I picked up a pound of goat cheese and chose a white wine from Croatia, one of the
staff picks for September. I held a solo pairing party to try out my purchases, but don’t feel sorry for
me…it’s all in day’s work! I made a savory goat cheese dip (see recipe) and devoured it with some
gluten-free crackers….because I’m trying to be healthy and all. Megan said this particular wine would
take the edge off the tartness of the cheese and the cheese would sweeten up the wine…good call,
Megan, good call.
A virtual Mecca of crackers, meats, olives and accompaniments awaits you to help round out your next
cheese party, either with or without the alcohol and with or without guests (don’t judge me). If you
do choose to host a pairing with either wine or beer (and really, why wouldn’t you?) keep in mind that
the more intensely-flavored cheeses pair well with the reds (Pinots and Cabs) and darker beers (Porters
and Stouts). With the more mellow flavored cheeses, a white wine or lighter beer is preferred (think
Riesling, Sauvignon Blanc, Ambers and Ales).
With the holidays closer than we think (and aren’t they always?) remember to pop in to visit one of
these Cheese Lady locations to stock up on sundries and ask about their catering. Because a party isn’t
a party unless there is cheese, right? OK, I made that up, but it’s my motto and I sticking with it.