Black Blade Kindred Cheese

Hey cheese lover! Ever heard of Black Blade Kindred? No, it's not some secret society for ninjas who are lactose intolerant (though that would be a pretty cool premise for a book, right?). It’s a delicious, semi-hard cheese that’s been making waves in the artisan cheese world, and trust me, you’re gonna want a piece of this action. Or, you know, a wedge. A whole wheel? I won't judge.

What Is Black Blade Kindred, Anyway?

Okay, so Black Blade Kindred is made by the good folks at Crave Brothers Farmstead Cheese in Waterloo, Wisconsin. Think rolling hills, happy cows (probably named things like "Buttercup" and "Daisy"), and, of course, amazing cheese. It's actually a washed-rind cheese, which basically means during the aging process, the rind gets washed with a brine solution. This gives it that distinctive orangey-pinkish rind and contributes to its unique flavor.

Now, you might be thinking, "Washed-rind? Sounds… smelly." And you wouldn't be entirely wrong! Some washed-rind cheeses can be a little… pungent. But Black Blade Kindred is more of a gentle, friendly giant. It’s got a subtle aroma that's more earthy and nutty than straight-up stinky socks. Promise! (Okay, maybe slightly reminiscent of socks that have been lightly dusted with parmesan cheese... but in a good way! Trust me.)

Taste Test Time! (The Fun Part!)

So, what does this magical cheese actually taste like? Well, imagine a flavor explosion of nutty, savory, and slightly sweet notes. It’s got a smooth, creamy texture that melts in your mouth, followed by that subtle tang from the washed rind. It’s complex without being overwhelming, sophisticated without being pretentious. Basically, it’s the kind of cheese you can bring to a party and impress your friends without having to explain what "affinage" means (because, let's be honest, who really knows?).

And here's the kicker: it's incredibly versatile! You can slice it and eat it straight up (my personal favorite), melt it on a grilled cheese (OMG!), or grate it over pasta. It pairs beautifully with crusty bread, fruits like apples and pears, and even a drizzle of honey. I once accidentally dropped a piece into my coffee (don't ask), and while I wouldn't necessarily recommend it, it wasn't terrible. Desperate times, desperate measures, you know?

Serving Suggestions (Because Presentation Matters!)

Want to really wow your guests (or, you know, just yourself)? Here are a few ideas for serving up some Black Blade Kindred deliciousness:

• Cheese Board Superstar: Add it to your cheese board alongside other cheeses, cured meats, olives, and crackers. Be sure to include a little info card so people know what they’re eating (and can admire your sophisticated taste).
• Gourmet Grilled Cheese: Elevate your grilled cheese game by using Black Blade Kindred with some fig jam and prosciutto. Trust me, your taste buds will thank you.
• Pasta Perfection: Grate it over your favorite pasta dish. It adds a creamy, nutty richness that’s simply divine.
• Wine Pairing Wisdom: Black Blade Kindred pairs well with a variety of wines, including Pinot Noir, Riesling, and even some bolder white wines like Chardonnay. (Okay, full disclosure, I usually just pair it with whatever wine I have open, but those are some suggestions from people who know more than I do!)

Why You Should Try It (Like, Right Now!)

Look, there are a lot of cheeses out there. A lot. It can be overwhelming. But Black Blade Kindred is special. It’s the kind of cheese that makes you slow down, savor the moment, and appreciate the simple things in life (like happy cows and delicious cheese). It’s a reminder that sometimes, the best things in life are the ones you least expect.

So, go out there and find some Black Blade Kindred! I promise you won't be disappointed. And hey, if you don't like it, send it to me! I'll happily take it off your hands. Because, let's be honest, there's no such thing as too much cheese. Happy cheesing!