You know someone really cares about you when there’s wine and cheese tasting involved. It’s so much more committal than, say, a friendly chat over a cup of coffee at a café or a pint at the pub. It’s considerably yummier too! I mean, c’mon, it’s cheese … and wine! Such an outing suggests sophistication and an appreciation of the finer things in life (ie cheese and wine).

Well, last night Qype showed just how much it truly cares about its members by taking a few lucky Qypers out to South Ken’s wonderful La Cave a Fromage. I love La Cave and actually have raved about it in the recent past on this blog (and elsewhere). I’m happy to sing its praises yet again. In fact, I reckon it’s the best cheese shop in London: the owners and staff are passionate about their ever changing line-up of expertly chosen cheeses, wines and meat. La Cave a Fromage is a thoughtfully run shop and well worth a visit.

Last night’s tasting, in addition to being super scrummy and a lot of fun, was educational too. Even a modern jackass like me learned something new! Did you know that there’s a fermented milk product (of Scottish origin via the Vikings) made from whey with alcohol content similar to wine and a flavour kinda-sorta like sherry? I didn’t. But thanks to the knowledgeable folks at La Cave, I am now a fan of blaand, especially when served up with some blue cheese, such as Gorgonzola Piccante, both of which (a bottle of Fallachan Superior Scotch Blaand and a good-sized wedge of the Gorgonzola) had me happily parting with £20 for further tasting at home.

Beyond the yummy foodie lessons, last night was a brilliant opportunity to get to know a few other Qypers a little better. And, giving the event that Web 2.0 edge, there was actual live blogging going on! A good time was had by everybody. In closing, and I know it may sound cheesy, all I can say is that Qype really knows how to have fun and, more importantly, how to show its most active members some delicious appreciation.

Thanks Qype!
tikichris