Cheese Culture Brings a Whey of Life to Las Olas

​Cheese is a way of life, at least to Susan Phipps, a passionate cheese-oholic who later this month will open the shop of her dreams--Cheese Culture: A Whey of Life--on Las Olas Boulevard right next to Noodles Panini. 

The shop will feature some 90 varieties of artisan cheese from all over the world, in time to almost double, among them English-style cheddar from Cabot Cheese in Vermont, a gouda-style cheese dusted with espresso and lavender from Beehive Cheese Co. in Salt Lake city, and all the great European cheeses like epoisses and affinois. The shop also sports a tasting room where monthly classes on topics like pairing cheese with wine and beer will be offered. 

But wait, there's more. 

There's all kinds of charcuterie too: prosciutto, pancetta, mortadella and the luscious jamon Iberico, as well as a roster of olive oils, chutneys and assorted cheese accouterments. Oh, and some 30 boutique wines and a handful of craft beers too. A limited menu of panini and salads will also be offered, available for take-out and eat-in. 

If you're really looking to be a cheese whiz, on Sunday, Sept. 11, from 2 to 4 p.m. noted fromager Max McCalman will host a cheese-pairing class to feature copies of his latest book, Cheese: A Connoisseur's Guide to the World's Best, available for purchase and signing. Cost is $35 and you need to RSVP to the Cheese Course at 954-629-5800. 

After all, where there's a will, there's a whey.

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