Last night Athlone Beer Club were treated to some fantastic fromage from The Cheese Market paired with amazing beer in O’Brien’s. There was a great turn out to try this novel idea. We started off with Longueville House Cider with Caistor Na Tir Sheep’s Cheese, appreciative nods and murmurs went around the room and I took that as a good sign.
We stayed fruity for our second pairing with Rascal’s Wunderbar IPA and Coolattin Cheddar.
We went all out with Trappist Rochefort 8 and Gorganzola Picante. The strong sweetness of the beer providing an interesting counterpoint for the sharpness of the cheese.
We brought it back to the Midlands after that with St Mel’s Brown Ale. We paired this with some delicious Prima Dona Mature Gouda. Brewer Liam Hanlon was impressed and you may see that one under ‘suggested food pairings’ someday soon.
We finished off the tasting with Whiplash Scaldy Porter and Knockanore Smoked Cheddar. Now I’m a big fan of this beer and cheese and I loved the way the cheese highlighted the smokiness of the beer but there were mixed feelings on that one. But I’d happily put them together again.
After getting ourselves warmed up with a few tastes of beer we made our way to The Shack where we polished off all of their St Mel’s IPA. A good night was had, complete with banter. Thanks to everyone who came along, to Carla, Davina and Paddy for the pictures, Graeme for helping with the pouring on his night off and especially to Ronan for bringing such a great selection of cheeses and chutneys. The Cheese Market is in Irishtown Athlone, just around the corner from O’Brien’s if you want to try any of those pairings at home.
