Sartori Reserve Bellavitano Gold Cheese

Sartori Reserve Bellavitano Gold is a premium, artisan cheese hailing from the United States, specifically crafted by the Sartori Company in Wisconsin. This cheese is a unique blend of Italian and American cheesemaking traditions, offering a distinctive experience. It is made from cow's milk and falls under the hard cheese category. The Bellavitano Gold variant is known for its rich, buttery texture and a golden hue that comes from the special aging process. Its rind is often treated with a blend of oils and spices, adding an extra layer of flavor and complexity. The cheese's unique character is further enhanced by its aging in Merlot wine, which imparts subtle fruity notes and a beautiful maroon tint to the rind.

Sartori Reserve Bellavitano Gold is a testament to the innovative spirit of the Sartori Company, a family-owned business with a rich history in cheesemaking since 1939. The Bellavitano line was introduced as a tribute to the Sartori family's Italian heritage, blending traditional Italian techniques with American craftsmanship. The Gold variant, in particular, showcases the company's commitment to quality and creativity, utilizing a unique aging process that involves Merlot wine. This cheese has quickly gained recognition for its exceptional quality and has become a favorite among cheese connoisseurs, symbolizing the fusion of old-world traditions with new-world innovation.

Sartori Reserve Bellavitano Gold begins with high-quality cow's milk, which is carefully selected to ensure the best flavor and texture. The milk is then pasteurized and cultured, followed by the addition of rennet to form curds. These curds are cut, cooked, and pressed into molds to create the cheese's initial form. After pressing, the cheese is brined to develop its flavor and rind. The unique aspect of Bellavitano Gold's production is its aging process, where it is soaked in Merlot wine. This not only imparts a distinctive flavor and color but also contributes to the cheese's creamy texture. The aging period lasts several months, during which the cheese develops its complex flavor profile and firm texture.

Sartori Reserve Bellavitano Gold offers a rich and complex flavor profile. It has a creamy, buttery texture that melts in the mouth, with a balance of savory and slightly sweet notes. The Merlot wine aging process adds subtle fruity undertones and a hint of tannin, complementing the cheese's natural flavors. The rind, treated with oils and spices, introduces an additional layer of flavor, making each bite a unique experience. The aroma is inviting, with hints of nuts and a slight earthiness, enhancing the overall sensory experience.

Sartori Reserve Bellavitano Gold pairs wonderfully with a variety of foods and beverages. For a classic pairing, try it with a glass of Merlot or a full-bodied red wine that echoes the cheese's wine-aged notes. It also complements craft beers, especially those with a malty or slightly hoppy profile. On the food side, it's excellent with crusty bread, fresh fruits like pears and apples, and nuts for a simple yet elegant cheese board. For a more adventurous pairing, incorporate it into dishes like risottos or pasta, where its creamy texture and complex flavors can shine. Dark chocolate and Bellavitano Gold make for an unexpectedly delightful combination, highlighting the cheese's sweet and savory aspects.