Both dense and crisp at the same time when eaten with the rind. A fresh grape sweetness upfront gives way to the deep dark sheepy undertow that lurks below the surface.
QUICK FACTS
Country of Origin: Italy
Milk Type/Treatment: Raw Sheep/Cow/Goat
Rennet Type: Animal
THE FLAVOR EXPERIENCE
Testun al Barolo, like the other Testuns exemplify time and place. Al Barolo serves as a snapshot of a particular point in the season when the ratio of milks is right and the grape harvest is underway. The grape must, left behind by the Barolo winemaking process is pressed into the rind to preserve moisture and to add the flavor of the cheese. The must overwhelms, but in a good way: the effect is sweet and intoxicating to the tongue.
THE STORY
Perhaps the most immediately friendly of Beppino's Gran Riserva range, Testun al Barolo is warm, sweet, and inviting. It has a younger crisper flavor than that of its chestnut or whiskey relatives. Originally 'butter focused', Beppino Occelli entered the industry in 1976 and currently makes some of the world's most authentic cheeses representing the Italian Alps region of Cuneo. His Testuns pay homage to a very old, rustic style of cheesemaking that utilizes various milk ratios and 'left overs' from other types of food production.
USAGE TIPS
Serve with Sweet Abbruzze Sausage and a super crisp white wine for some hot grape-on-grape action.
