Bartlett / Saint André / Brut Champagne
This selection was provided by Northwest chef and James Beard Award winner, Caprial Pence.
Bartlett is a very juicy pear that is exceptionally aromatic with a smooth texture. It's the first pear that comes to mind when discussing pear flavors.
Saint André cheese is a triple cream cheese that is very smooth and buttery-a very nice complement to the sweet, juicy Bartlett. The subtle cheese flavor is ideal next to the heady aroma of the pear.
Brut Champagne is very dry, with a toasty, almost nutty flavor. It contrasts nicely with the richness of the cheese and the sweet flavor of the pear, without asserting itself so much that the other flavors are lost. The sparkles in this Champagne gently lift the cheese and pear off the tongue, enhancing flavor while cleansing the palate for the next delightful bite.
Bartlett / Fontina cheese / Merlot
The subtle aromatics and smooth texture of the Bartlett pear works well with the rich, smooth texture and musty finish on Fontina cheese. A Merlot with chocolate, cherry and tobacco overtones and a smooth to slightly bold finish works well with this pear and cheese combination.