By Michael Hargrave:
Knowledge of his or her product is a great thing for a business owner to have, but knowledge and enthusiasm is so much better.
Jill Forster of Nickel City Cheese and Mercantile is as enthusiastic about her cheeses as any one could hope for. And she knows more than a little about her cheeses.
When I stopped by Nickel City Cheese to snap a few photographs, Jill treated me to an impromptu tasting session.
Being a huge fan of terrifically smelly French cheeses myself, I was more than happy to play along. At the moment, Jill didn't have any of the Epoisses (a particularly stinky cheese that I love) that I've been looking for, but she provided me with a spread of samples that covered an amazing range of flavors, textures, and aromas.
Each little slice Jill handed me was wafer thin, perfect for allowing the cheese to reach room temperature quickly, and the selection that she put in front of me was a perfect compliment to the flavors that I told her I enjoyed.
Jill's knowledge of her cheeses was readily apparent, none of the samples were similar to any of the others, and she was quick to point out the different techniques that went into making each cheese, as well as origin and flavor profiles.
All in all a morning spent tasting and talking about earthy smelling, sweet tasting, creamy textured cheese was certainly my idea of two hours well wasted.
Jill and Nickel City Cheese also have a selection of other, less stinky cheeses, as well as cured meats.
As a huge fan of good cheese, and a huge fan of small shops, I've got to give Nickel City Cheese and Mercantile two thumbs way up for wonderful product, and amazingly helpful customer service.
See history of the cheese shop.
I reve this shop. the atmosphere is fantastic! The products are superb! The staff is fantastic! I cannot be more happy that this place has opened up! :)