Wine World  Beer & Cheese of the Month - January 2010

January Beer of the Month The Dogfather Imperial Stout Laughing Dog Brewing Idaho    View www.laughingdogbrewing.com       "A brew you can't refuse." 7 malts and 4 hops give a complex flavor profile. A portion is aged in bourbon barrels. Deep black color, with a full creamy tan head and nice lacing on the glass.   Aromas of roasted malt, dark chocolate, earthy hops and a hint of roasted coffee.   These continue in the flavor along with a light fruity note and a good hops flavor giving excellent balance.    Terrific with robust cheeses, hearty meat stews, game dishes.      11% alcohol.   (Caution.)      Autumn / Winter seasonal    A terrific cold weather stout!

January Cheese of the Month                                     Der Alpen Kase  Swiss Style Goot Essa Cooperative        Pennsylvania                         Rich flavors with the  touches of nutty, earthy aspects characteristic of quality mountain cheeses.     Produced by Amish and Mennonite dairy farm families, this excellent cheese is made, as are all Goot Essa cheeses, by hand from highest quality milk with no additives or preservatives.    Wonderful on its own with wines and beers. Great for cheese toast, topper for French Onion soup, and a fine flavor boost to many dishes. Grate on vegetables or green salads. And of course, that cold weather favorite, Cheese Fondue!  (Der Alpen Kase's  flavor is less like Swiss Emmental, much more similar to Swiss Gruyere.)     Delicious!