Serious connoisseurs can now age, store, and serve artisanal cheeses in the traditional European manner with this handcrafted fromagerie. Akin to a humidor, it uses a water moistened clay brick to control humidity, has adjustable ventilation for curing, and a vaulted ceiling for condensation control. Holding up to eight pounds of artisanal cheese, this statement piece made of sustainable bamboo, whose porous quality promotes a healthy environment for cheese, has two pullout shelves to serve at peak perfection, directly from the countertop.
The Classico Model has a larger footprint, at 7.5 inches wide, 12 inches deep, and 8.5 inches tall, making it the perfect size for the avid cheese connoisseur, with a medium to large refrigerator. Taking after age-old European traditions, this model can be stored on the countertop or in a cellar at a warmer temperature (45 to 69 F) for effective short-term cheese storage, or it can be stored in the fridge for long-term storage.
The framed, pull-down drawer is perfectly designed for fridge and countertop use.
The adjustable back panel allows for additional ventilation for curing and ripening styles of cheese. Because of the adjustability, the model can also be used for at-home cheese aging projects. The porous and unfinished quality of the bamboo promotes a healthy environment for cheese microbes, and upkeep is easy with a monthly application of mineral oil.
For long-term storage of cheese, it is recommended to keep the Cheese Grotto at refrigeration temperatures (34ºF to 39º F, preferably 39ºF). For 7 to 10 days, you can store cheese in the Grotto Classico under 70ºF on the counter or in a cellar, like the French do.
Hand wash shelves with extremely hot water and a splash of distilled white vinegar
Allow the Grotto Classico shelves to air dry between uses
For maintenance of the bamboo shelves, a monthly application of mineral oil is recommended
