There used to be a commercial on TV in the 80s that sang "Cheese, glorious CHEESE! So scrumptious and luscious!" I find myself belting that jingle out, on a regular basis. This post is not for the lactose intolerant, sorry! The rest of us will honor a moment of silence for you.

Cheese! It's a garnish, it's an appetizer, it can be a full meal if you're feeling decadent. There are so many different varieties of cheese, and so many different areas and regions from which the cheese came, it's practically imperative to make it a travel/food challenge of sorts. To really experience the cheese, you should visit the place it originated. This is really just a great excuse to take a trip and eat.

We recommend starting in Europe!

The Netherlands - Gouda

Did you know this is pronounced HOW-da? We did not know that. Now we do, but will still probably say GOO-da unless in the company of an artisanal cheese expert. Gouda is a great blend of salty and sweet flavors, that develops a faint caramel taste as it ages.

Milk Type: Cow
Cheese Type: Semi-Hard
Wine Pairing: Cabernet Sauvignon & white varietals

Nottinghamshire, United Kingdom - Colston-Bassett, Stilton

The finest and creamiest Stilton, that is perfect served with Port or Sauternes for dessert. Colston-Bassett Stilton is also fabulous in salads and sauces.

Milk Type: Cow
Cheese Type: Blue
Wine Pairing: Sauternes

Lombardy, Italy - Parmigiano Reggiano

This is a hard, fat, granulated cheese made from raw cow's milk, and is vastly different from the "parmesan" cheese that masquerades as the real thing.

Milk Type: Cow
Cheese Type Hard
Wine Pairing: Champagne or a great Italian red

Fuerteventura Island, Canary Islands - Majorero Cheese

The taste is acidic, with a buttery but not salty taste. This cheese is very versatile, and can be used with pastas, potatoes and many vegetables.

Milk Type: Goat
Cheese Type: Soft
Wine Pairing: Vinho Verde

And if you can't make the trip across the pond, there is a Stateside destination that offers one of the most magnificent cheeses ever created:

Arcata, CA (Humboldt County) - Humboldt Fog

This is no time to be objective - Humboldt Fog is the best cheese ever. It is a creamy brie & blue combination that makes everything seem like a fairytale. Try it with a baguette, an apple, or just scoop it up with a spoon. It's delicious!

Milk Type: Goat
Cheese Type: Soft
Wine Pairing: Chardonnay

Pairing wine and cheese is standard; pairing travel and cheese is going to be the next big thing! Don't be afraid to jump on the bandwagon; Tuscany & Umbria have some excellent cheeses, and could be your first stop!