I could claim that my love of champagne and cheese is something I have inherited from my French family… but I think it is an enthusiasm that most people would admit to.
On the hottest day of 2015 I headed to the sheltered Brixton Village to indulge in a bubbles and cheese fuelled evening at Champagne & Fromage. The little shop and bistro offers rustic fare and fizz to enjoy at a table at the venue or to take away and relish at home. We sat outside to watch the village activity around us while sipping the finest champagne and feasting on unusual cheeses and charcuterie.
After a few moments an ice bucket arrived with a cold bottle of Lacroix champagne peering out the top. There is nothing quite like the first taste of a cold glass of fizz, especially after a sweltering bus journey, and I savoured every sip of this delicious drink. Lacroix white wines have a mouth-filling, medium-weight, biscuity flavour profile and are produced from the classic 3-grape blend of Chardonnay, Pinot Noir and Meunier. It was more complex and vibrant than champagnes I have tasted in the past.
When we started to get a bit peckish we ordered a range of the foodie treats. Melted garlic and herby camembert was a warm gooey mess, a wonderful dip for the chunks of toasted artisan bread. We had great fun tasting a selection of cheeses accompanied by fruit jelly, cherries, grapes and membrillo. On the board we had seven varieties including blue, goats, smoked, sheep. I loved the Comté Extra, a firm cheese matured for 24-26 months with a slightly sweet and nutty flavour. I also loved the Langres from the region of Champagne-Ardenne, it has a complex and punchy flavour with a decadently creamy centre. If you want something meaty I suggest ordering a selection board which gives you a range of the thinnest sliced salamis.
Both branches of Champagne & Fromage hold masterclasses and tasting evenings where visitors can learn about pairing food and drink, understanding grape varieties and the different cheese regions. I imagine this knowledge would be useful when holding a sophisticated dinner party!
You might want to wile the night away with cheese and champagne or just pop in for a decadent snack and sip, this little venue has the expertise and produce to excel for either occasion.
More information here: www.champagneplusfromage.co.uk