There is a lot of great news to share from the Near West Side. First, we now have Cougar Gold cheese from the Washington State University creamery.  The origins of this cheese dates to the 1930's when the creamery developed a unique method for storing and aging cheese in cans. Ultimately, this led to the development of Cougar Gold, an aged white cheddar that is aged, stored and shipped in cans.  Cougar Gold has won multiple awards over the years.  This slightly crumbly, sweet and fruity white cheddar will be available in pieces in the Near West cheese case.  Whole cans (30 oz) of Cougar Gold can be purchased by request.  Cougar Gold can be aged indefinitely while it remains in the sealed can. Supplies of this product will be seasonal and may be unavailable in the summer months.

The store’s seafood department is now happy to have Laughing Bird sustainable shrimp from Belize.  This aquaculture product is raised in a sustainable manner, fed on algae raised on site plus a very small percentage of fish meal.  This is a closed system that protects the environment and uses water that is filtered and recycled.  Waste products are used for fertilizer in neighboring farms. These shrimp are small to medium size and are perfect for sautees, soups, gumbos, or even cocktail shrimp.  Come in and give them a try!

Rare Vos

Beer Notes

Seasonal and holiday beers are starting to trickle in to the Near West store.  Look for Bell's Brewing's Winter White, an American take on a Belgian wit biere full of banana, clove and yeast flavors.   Bell's Christmas offering should be arriving this week too with the seasonal favorite Merry X-mas ale from Anchor brewing not far behind.

For your holiday table, considering pairing beer with the meal this year instead of or in addition to wine. Belgian strong ales are great with the main meal as their higher alcohol content and slight sweetness cut through  the fats and rich flavors from the turkey, gravy etc.  Rare Vos from Ommegang Brewing would be a perfect choice.  If you want to go with something a little lighter, the crisp, fruitiness of Orchard White from The Bruery or Harpoon natural cider would be great counter points for the wide array of flavors going on in the meal.  Try some rich, thick Java Stout from Bell's Brewing along with dessert and you'll forget about the coffee.

Pergola, with picnic tables

Update:  With the exception of a little additional landscaping and other finishing touches, work is now largely complete on our hub to the B-Line Trail, including the new lemonade stand, pergola, and picnic area. We hope it will provide convenient and attractive access to our store, as well as become a favorite site for a variety of events.  See you there!  Oh, and be sure to check out-and use- the new covered bike stand installed just inside our parking lot.

Steve Stroup