Fourth-generation cheese makers
Merlot BellaVitano is a hard cheese made by Sartori Cheese in Wisconsin, USA.
The company was first established in 1939 by Paolo Sartori. Presently, the fourth generation of the family operate the creamery in Plymouth, Wisconsin.
Undoubtedly, they have made a name for themselves over the better part of a century by producing very high quality hard and Italian-style cheeses.
BellaVitano Gold
Actually, this particular cheese starts its life as BellaVitano Gold. In fact, the Gold version is the company’s signature product.
Inspired by traditional Italian farmstead recipes and Cheddar, Gold is a very popular hard cheese in Wisconsin and around the world. Unsurprisingly, it has won numerous awards over the years and is a celebration of their Italian heritage.
From Gold to Merlot
Firstly, the cheesemaker carefully selects the best wheels of Gold to undergo further maturation. During this period, they hand wash each wheel in Merlot wine.
As a result, the cheese develops a seductive purple edible rind. Under the rind, it has an ivory coloured rich paste that is peppered with crunchy tyrosine crystals.
Furthermore, your nose and your palate will detect the plum and tang imparted by the Merlot. Overall, fruity and fermented flavours perfectly complement the innate nuttiness and creaminess of the original cheese.
How to pair Merlot BellaVitano
Merlot BellaVitano tastes delicious with dried nuts and fruits, crusty bread and thin slices of prosciutto.
Try pairing the cheese with wines such as Shiraz, Merlot and Pinot Noir. Also, you can pair with an IPA, a hoppy Pilsner or Wheat Beers.
Substitutes for Merlot BellaVitano
Can’t get your hands on Merlot BellaVitano? Trader Joe’s Toscano is a great alternative. Unlike this particular cheese, Toscano is washed in Syrah during maturation.
Another great option is Occelli al Barolo which is an Italian “drunken” cheese washed in Barolo wine.
