An evening of teachings on a Cardinal Sin, Stinking Bishop and Saint-Marcellin may at first seem of little appeal.  But if you’re a lover of fine food and not playing truant, you’ll discover that these are all cheeses, and there are cheese tasting classes not worth skipping.

The GPO Cheese and Wine Room is tucked underneath No. 1 Martin Place, hidden from city workers and tourists weaving through the CBD. Here, in sandstone rooms, you can find an impressive mix of local and imported cheeses – more than 180 types spanning cream of the crop camemberts, cheddar, stilton and parmesans, as well many rarities.

This month, its cheese and wine tastings will showcase gold-medal winning cheeses from the Royal Sydney Cheese Show, partnered with some award winning Australian wines.

Hosts fromager Alison Brien, and sommelier Sue Guest, will discuss the judging process and explain why Woodside ‘Monet’, Tasmanian Heritage Signature Brie, Heidi Farm Tilsit, and Grandvewe La Mancha are considered the ’best of the best’ in Australia.  

Held once or twice monthly, and timed with events such as the Sydney Royal Show or the Sydney Italian Festival, the evening session for 48 is kept informal, friendly and relaxed. Your four cheeses are paired with four wines, and detailed placemats with tasting notes are provided.

You can hear about the manufacturing process, how cheeses get their distinctive aromas and taste. Find out about the charms and strengths of some of Australia’s best cheesemakers and when their wares are in season. You don’t have to eat everything on your plate and you can ask questions at any time.

No more excuses for an ordinary Jatz and cheese platter.

GPO Cheese & Wine, No. 1 Martin Place, Sydney 2000, (02) 9229 7701
Tuesday 11th March and Wednesday 26th March, 6.30pm – 8.30pm
$60 per person, reservations are essential and full payment is required to secure your booking.