Gruyere (Cow's milk, Switzerland) The King of Swiss cheese. A nutty and somewhat earthy flavor, slightly sharp and slightly sweet with lip-smacking richness. This cheese is most memorable if aged at least 12 months, encouraging tiny protein crystals form, giving the semi-hard texture a pleasing crunch. Gruyere is so good shaved right off the rind that its almost a shame to melt it, but a grilled cheese sandwich made from gruyere is too hard to resist. Pairings: Casa Forcello Mostarda di Mele Campanine Liquid Pairings: Champagne Gruner Veltliner Merlot