Precious memories, we all have them, cherished episodes of life in its perfection. One of ours is an evening in Aix en Provence, three decades ago, the night I discovered the true meaning of "Fromage." That fond memory was delightfully refreshed a few nights ago at a typically beautiful FIAF event with Maître Fromager Max McCalman who presented for the Art de Vivre - Master Cheese Tasting. It makes sense since this is what I think the Art de Vivre series is all about, creating and refreshing fond memories.
I was talking to my friend Dana the other day about our unabashed love of French culture and lifestyle. We agreed the Art de Vivre is wonderful opportunity to get a first hand sense of what it is all about.
I of course was most intrigued by this year's wine series "A Wine Tour de France With New York’s Best Sommeliers" that runs until June 6th, More Info Here . This past week we had the good fortune to attend an event in this series featuring Maître Fromager Max McCalman of Artisanal, called Master Cheese Tasting with Wine Pairings.
My first true French cheese experience was in Aix en Provence. It was at small inn on the way to Cap Antibes from Paris on our honeymoon trip. After an exquisite dinner we were offered a cheese course which we accepted with delight. No strangers to fine cheese back in New York, frequent customers of Cheese of all Nations down on Chambers Street. Remember that place? The restaurant in Provence however served cheese "Fromage" right from the farmers cellars. Fresh and alive. It was amazing. Much better than anything I had ever had in the States.
Some years later I met Max at the French restaurant called Picholine, where he served as Fromager. He introduced us to some wonderful cheeses that are available here. Some very good cheese is being made here in the US. However, the Master Cheese Tasting was the first time since then that I have enjoyed cheese so good. Of course you can find many fine cheeses at Whole Foods and places around NJ. But nothing is like what Max serves at his new home Artisinal or places like Murray's in the City.
The very best however are still found only in France. I learned from Max that these cheeses are barred from the United States by food laws. Too bad. The cheeses Max served are the very closest you can get here.
They included these, that range from very traditional to the very rare. Provided with the generous sponsorship of Lactalis.
1. Président® Sainte Maure
2. Le Châtelain® Brie
3. Istara™ Ossau-Iraty
4. Boule d’Or Mimolette
5. Pont de la Pierre Cantal
6. Pochat & Fils Beaufort
7. Société® Roquefort
With our cheese we enjoyed some very fine French wine from AOC wines.
French Institute Alliance Française(FIAF)
22 East 60th Street [map]
Between Park and Madison avenues
New York, NY 10022
Tel. 212 355 6100
Things to do, places to see, with food and booze
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