Following our own advice, we slipped into the bar at Bina Osteria early on Valentines evening to have a quick bite.
After another lovely meal at this new gem in the Boston restaurant scene, we went next door to the Bina Almentia to check their Barolo supply. We found a treasure (more on the wine when we open it) and were happy to explore the cheese case with the staff member who suggested that they had a great match for the Barolo.
He presented us with a taste of Fontina Val d'Aosta and opened our minds to yet another cheese that has suffered the misfortune of many poor imitations.
This Fontina began its voyage through our tasting process mildly.
As it had time to settle in, it burst into layers of flavor. This
particular wheel had a very nutty, honeyed undertone. You'll find it
similar to a very good Gruyere.
In "Cheese: A Connoisseur's Guide to the World's Best" Max McCalman nailed it when he said, "It does not beg or shout for your attention; but rather, it commands your respect and ultimate admiration."
As long time readers know, we have a goal of adding every cheese in this book to our life list. And, while we have the book, I've ordered the card deck so that we can tuck a few cards in our pocket when we head to our favorite cheese shops.
That trip will be soon, since we ate all the Fontina when I set it out to photograph, we'll have to go back and get another piece to have with the wine.
(Photo credit: ©2009 Penny Cherubino)
Details:
Bina Osteria & Bina Almentia
581 Washington St, Boston, MA 02111
(corner of Avery St)
www.binaboston.com
Other Opinions:
Formaggio Kitchen
"It can be mild and sweet when young or more aromatic and almost funky when more aged."
http://www.formaggiokitchen.com/shop/product_info.php?products_id=1738&osCsid=vr388dprc5m62jfpv8g1002l96
Artisanal Cheese
"Fontina
is earthy, mushroomy, and woody, and pairs exceedingly well with roast
meats and truffles. A burly red wine is an appropriate complement for
Fontina Val d'Aosta - try a Barolo from Piemonte to the south, or a
Zweigelt from Austria to the northeast."
http://www.artisanalcheese.com/prodinfo.asp?number=10226
Cowgirl Creamery
Reminds you, "To
make sure you are getting the real D.O.P. Fontina and not a generic
cheese (Fontinella, Fontella, or Fontal), look for the stenciled purple
mountain on the top of the wheel."
http://www.cowgirlcreamery.com/prodinfo.asp?number=FONT
Murray's Cheese
"Rich and nutty, reminiscent of truffle and roasted apple, its supple texture is extraordinarily meltable..."
http://www.murrayscheese.com/prodinfo.asp?number=20016100000
