
Hosted by Brittany Bisset, The B's Cheese · EN
Welcome to Curd is the Word, the podcast that takes you on a delectable journey through the world of cheese! I'm your host, Brittany, a self-proclaimed cheese aficionado and your personal guide to all things cheesy.
🧀 **Unveiling the Flavor Palette:** Are you tired of feeling overwhelmed by the sheer variety of cheeses out there? Fear not, my fellow cheese enthusiasts! On Curd is the Word, we're here to unravel the mysteries of flavor profiles and tasting notes in the simplest, most delightful way possible. From the velvety smoothness of Brie to the sharp tang of a perfectly aged Cheddar, we'll dive deep into the sensory experience of each cheese, decoding their unique characteristics and teaching you how to savor them like a true cheese connoisseur.
🧀 **Say Cheese to Hidden Gems:** Ever wondered where to find the best cheese shops? Look no further! Curd is the Word is your treasure map to uncovering hidden cheese shop gems where passionate cheesemongers curate an exceptional selection of cheeses. We'll venture into charming corners of culinary wonderlands, seeking out those quaint fromageries that exude the aroma of cheese dreams come true.
🧀 **A Feast of Cheese Events:** Curd is the Word is not just about the cheeses themselves; we're also here to celebrate the vibrant cheese community and the exciting events that bring cheese lovers together. We'll delve into the world of cheese festivals, tasting events, and gatherings where curd enthusiasts unite to revel in their shared love for all things cheesy.
Curd is the Word is your passport to cheesy enlightenment, whether you're a seasoned cheese aficionado or a curious beginner.
So, my fellow cheese enthusiasts, let's embark on this delightful journey together. Tune in to Curd is the Word, where cheese is not just food—it's a way of life. Together, we'll savor every bite, learn something new, and let the curd reign supreme!

Send us Fan MailIn this episode of Curd Is The Word, Brittany sits down with Nick Bayne, Head Cheesemonger at the Fine Cheese Company in Bath, England, to talk all things Baron Bigod — the British bloomy-rind cheese that looks like a brie but absolutely is not.They dig into Nick’s journey from actor to cheesemonger, why raw milk cheese imports are currently restricted in the UK, and how Baron Bigod came to be through thoughtful farming, Montbéliarde cows, and a deep respect for land stewardship. Nick breaks down what makes Baron Bigod so unique: its thin wrinkled rind, even breakdown, savory depth, and why it avoids the bitterness common in modern brie-style cheeses.If you’ve ever written off brie as “boring,” this episode will change your mind.References:CheeseBaron BigodWebsiteshttps://fenfarmdairy.co.uk/pages/abouthttps://www.finecheese.co.uk/products/baron-bigod

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, we dive into Havilah, an award-winning Alpine-style cheese from New Jersey made by Cherry Grove Farm. Crafted from raw, pasture-based Jersey cow’s milk, Havilah reflects the seasonality, terroir, and careful cheesemaking that have earned it national and international recognition, including wins at the World Cheese Awards.You’ll hear a full tasting breakdown—bright citrus and pineapple, toasted nuts, savory roast notes, and a caramel-like finish—along with pairing ideas ranging from wine and beer to cocktails and non-alcoholic options.I also share personal anecdotes from my time working with Cherry Grove, offering behind-the-scenes insight into the farm, the milk, and what makes this cheese so distinctive. Whether you’re a cheese professional, food lover, or just curious about American artisan cheese, this episode is a deep, delicious look at one of New Jersey’s true standouts.🧀 Cherry Grove Farm – Official Sourceshttps://www.cherrygrovefarm.com/https://www.cherrygrovefarm.com/shop-all/p/havilahhttps://www.cherrygrovefarm.com/our-farmstead-cheesesOtherFloral Fromage – Cherry Grove Farm Havilah listing:https://www.floralfromage.com/product-page/cherry-grove-farm-havilahEdible Jersey – Cherry Grove Farm feature / holiday cheese boards:https://ediblejersey.ediblecommunities.com/shop/shop-fresh-cheese-cherry-grove-farm-lawrenceville/NJ Cheese Guild: https://www.njcheeseguild.org/Pairingshttps://www.karmakrackers.com/product/obsessed-onion/hhttps://spread-mmms.com/🏆 Awards ReferencedWorld Cheese Awards (general site):https://worldcheeseawards.com/Good Food Foundation (Good Food Awards):https://goodfoodfdn.org/American Cheese Society Awards:https://www.cheesesociety.org/awards/

Send us Fan MailIf there’s one cheese that deserves a spot on every holiday table, it’s Trader Joe’s Creamy Toscano soaked in Syrah. In this episode, I’m breaking down exactly why this wine-washed beauty has become a cult favorite—and why it might just be your new December must-have. We’ll talk about what Toscano cheese actually *is*, how Syrah transforms its flavor, and why the pairing works so shockingly well.I’m also digging into how Trader Joe’s sources cheeses like this (yes, small makers really are involved), plus a little cheese-world lore, fun facts, and everything I’ve learned from tasting this one for years.Then we get into the good stuff: holiday pairings that make this cheese shine on festive boards, and—because balance—my “girl dinner/rat in the kitchen” pairings for the nights when you’re eating cheese straight from the fridge while wrapping presents.Whether you’re building a party board or sneaking a midnight snack, this is the cozy, wine-soaked cheese episode you didn’t know you needed.References:CheeseCreamy Toscano Soaked in SyrahPairingsMeia-Dúzia spreads from PortugalAu HoneyBlake's ChocolateWebsitesSyrah - Wine FollySyrah Soaked Toscano Cheese Spread & Dip - Trader JoesSay cheese! A quick tour through Tuscan cheeses - Visit Tuscany

Send us Fan MailIn this audio-only episode, Brittany dives into Cornerstone—the raw-milk American Original cheese crafted from one shared recipe across three states. Created by Parish Hill Creamery, Cato Corner Farm, and Birchrun Hills Farm, Cornerstone is part collaboration, part terroir experiment, and entirely delicious. I break down how this cheese came to be, why raw milk and natural cultures matter, and how three farms can follow the same recipe yet produce wildly different (and wildly delicious) results.You’ll hear the story behind the Cornerstone Project, what makes this cheese a true American Original, and why it’s become a favorite among mongers, makers, and cheese lovers craving authenticity. I explore the flavor profile—earthy, tangy, herbal—and share pairing ideas that make Cornerstone shine on any cheese board or kitchen counter.If you love raw-milk cheese, artisan cheesemaking, or discovering small-batch American producers, this episode is your new obsession. Grab a wedge, settle in, and taste what three states, one recipe, and real terroir can do.References:CheeseCornerstoneWebsitesCornerstone Project: The StoryCornerstone Project: The RulesBuy Cornerstone from Parish Hill CreameryThe (late) Cheese Shop of Salem - Parish Hill Cornerstone

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Brittany digs into Cypress Grove's Humboldt Fog, one of the most iconic American goat cheeses. She breaks down everything you need to know: its creamy texture, the tangy yet gentle flavor, that famous ash line, and how the cheese ripens from a firm core to a luscious cream line. She also shares the story behind Cypress Grove and how Humboldt Fog was literally dreamed into existence and went on to reshape American artisanal cheese.Then we get into the fun part: the pairings playground. Brittany walks us through a classic food pairing with honey, prosciutto, apple, and Marcona almonds, plus a modern twist using apricot jam, pistachios, and a baguette. There is also talk about drink pairings, including Sauvignon Blanc, IPA beer, and an easy sparkling lemon elderflower soda that brings out the cheese’s floral notes.If you love cheese boards, food stories, or just discovering new flavors, this episode gives you the tools to taste like a pro and enjoy Humboldt Fog in its best light.References:CheeseHumboldt FogBooksThe Oxford Companion to Cheese - Catherine W. Donnelly.Websites2 Geeks Who Eat: Humboldt Fog

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Brittany dives into the world of Ossau Iraty, a traditional Basque sheep’s milk cheese from the French Pyrenees that’s as ancient as it is delicious. Discover how this AOP-certified cheese captures the essence of mountain pastures, seasonal rhythms, and centuries-old shepherding traditions. Brittany explores Ossau Iraty’s nutty, buttery flavor, its connection to transhumance and artisanal cheesemaking, and how it earned the title of “The Farmer’s Dessert.” Learn how to pair this rustic yet refined cheese with cherry jam, figs, prosciutto, chili honey, kombucha, and bold red wines for a pairing to please on a timeless favorite. Whether you’re a cheese enthusiast, a food explorer, or simply someone who loves a good story behind every bite, this episode brings the taste, texture, and history of Ossau Iraty to life — one delicious pairing at a time.References:CheeseOssau IratyBooksThe Oxford Companion to Cheese - Catherine W. Donnelly.How to Taste: A Guide to Discovering Flavor and Savoring Life - Mandy NaglichWebsitesCheese Connoisseur - Ossau Iraty, A True OriginalCheese.com - Ossau FermierAndrouet - Ossau IratyMurray’s Cheese - Ossau IratyCulture Cheese Magazine - Bon Fromage: Ossau Iraty and Abbaye de Belloc

Send us Fan MailIn this episode, Brittany dives into the rich, oozy magic of Quinta—a decadent, spruce-wrapped cheese from the women-owned Point Reyes Farmstead Cheese Company. Join her as she chats with Erin, Sales Manager at Point Reyes, about the happy accident that gave birth to this fan-favorite cheese, now celebrating its fifth birthday during the company’s 25th anniversary year!We’ll unpack what makes Quinta so unique, from its tea soaked spruce wrapped exterior to its luscious, spoonable interior. Expect some seriously fun and unexpected pairing ideas (spoiler: there's Fritos involved) and bite-sized cheese facts that will make you the most interesting person at your next wine night.Whether you're a cheese novice or a seasoned curd nerd, this episode is packed with joy, stories, and delicious inspiration. Hit play and hop on the bandwagon of falling in love with Quinta.

Send us Fan MailIn this long-awaitied episode, Brittany tastes two unforgettable cheeses: Valley Milkhouse's Honey Bell, with its sweet, creamy allure, and Sequatchie Cove's Coppinger, a bold, earthy sensation. Along the way, she dives into November’s best cheese-focused events, tempting you to join the fun, and—true to form—keeps adding must-try cheeses and places to go to her ever-growing bucket list. Expect plenty of laughs, some drool-worthy moments, and an epicurious exploration into the craft and pairings behind these cheeses that every enthusiast will savor. Whether you’re a seasoned curd nerd or simply cheese-curious, prepare to fall in love with Honey Bell, Coppinger, and maybe even learn some go to cheese education tricks to keep in your back pocket next time you are out cheese shopping.Sound effects by Pixabay Featured cheese:Valley Milkhouse Honey BellSequatchie Cove Creamery CoppingerCheese events: 11/9: La Vid Wine Bar, Spanish + Portugal cheeses and meats11/11: National Cheese Day in Japan, Cheese Festa11/14-18: World Cheese Awards, Portugal11/21: A Night at Cheese School 101 - Detroit11/23: Portland Cheese + Meat Festival 11/23: C.Hesse Pop up11/26: Murrays Taste of the CavesFollow along on IG for more cheesy inspiration @TheBsCheese or at my website www.thebscheese.com and cheese suggestions are always welcome. If you enjoyed this episode, subscribe and leave a review!

Send us Fan MailJoin your host, Brittany, on a flavorful journey with Jess Galen, the cheerful owner of Bloomy Dobbs, a hidden gem nestled in Dobbs Ferry of Westchester County, NY.In this new mini-series episode, Jess spills the cheese (figuratively, of course!) on what makes her quaint shop a local gem. From handpicked culinary selections to community events, she's the maestro behind it all. Get ready for anecdotes that are as sharp as her cheddar and as rich as her brie. Whether you're a cheese connoisseur or just craving a dairy delight, this episode of Curd is the Word promises a perfect pairing of flavor and fun. So grab your favorite crackers and tune in to discover the cheesy secrets of Bloomy Dobbs, where every slice tells a story!

Send us Fan MailWelcome back to another episode of Curd is the Word! Today, we're diving into the delicious realm of vegan cheeses. Join us as we explore the remarkable evolution of vegan cheese, sampling Mount Saint Helens from Wendy's Nutty Cheese and Pepper Jack by Darë.Prepare your taste buds for a flavorful adventure as we discuss the impressive strides made in vegan cheese quality, taste, and texture. Hear insights from the passionate cheesemakers themselves, about their craft and dedication to creating delectable dairy-free alternatives. From creamy textures to bold flavors, we'll take you on a journey through the diverse world of plant-based cheese, proving that dairy-free doesn't mean flavor-free. Whether you've been vegan for a while or simply curious about the latest culinary trends, this episode promises to tantalize your mind as well as your senses. So grab your vegan crackers and indulge in the cheezy goodness that is sure to satisfy even the most discerning palates. Let's taste the future of cheese!Featured cheeses:Mount Saint Helens by Wendy's Nutty CheesePepper Jack by DarëFeatured events:Vegan Street Fair: https://www.veganstreetfair.com/Vegandale Fest: https://www.vegandalefest.com/Vegan Exchange Market: https://www.veganexchangeevents.com/VegFest UK: https://www.vegfest.co.uk/Sunny Gandara private events: https://sunnygandara.com/cheeseandwine/