Appetizers
Vineyard Wine and Cheese Bites (Rebhüsli-Käsehäppchen)
Ingredients
- 200 g (7 oz) firm Alpine cheese, cut into small cubes
- 150 ml (2/3 cup) Liechtenstein Pinot Noir (Vaduzer Beerle) or other light red wine
- 1 tbsp honey
- 1 sprig fresh rosemary
- Toasted walnut halves, to garnish
- Small wooden skewers or cocktail sticks
Method
- Gently warm the wine, honey and rosemary sprig in a small saucepan over low heat for 5 minutes, without boiling, to infuse.
- Remove from heat, discard the rosemary, and let the syrup cool completely.
- Toss the cheese cubes gently in a few tablespoons of the cooled wine syrup to lightly glaze them.
- Skewer each cheese cube with a toasted walnut half.
- Arrange on a platter and drizzle any remaining syrup over the top before serving.
Introduction: Liechtenstein's terraced vineyards around Vaduz and Balzers, among the northernmost in the Alps, produce small quantities of prized Pinot Noir known locally as Vaduzer Beerle.
Cultural Background: Liechtenstein's terraced vineyards around Vaduz and Balzers, among the northernmost in the Alps, produce small quantities of prized Pinot Noir known locally as Vaduzer Beerle. These bite-sized cheese and wine pairings, named for the small vineyard huts (Rebhüsli) that dot the hillsides, celebrate that wine heritage and are a popular starter at wine-tasting evenings and harvest celebrations.
Tips: Do not let the wine syrup boil, as this can make it too sticky and overpower the cheese. Choose a firm cheese that will hold its shape well on a skewer.
Variations: Add a small cube of pear or apple to each skewer for a fruity contrast. A drizzle of local honey instead of the wine syrup makes a simpler alcohol-free version.
Storage: Best assembled fresh; components can be refrigerated separately for up to 2 days.
Reheating: Not applicable; served cold or at room temperature.
FAQs:
Q: Can I make this alcohol-free?
A: Yes, substitute the wine with grape juice reduced with a squeeze of lemon.
Q: What wine works best?
A: A light, fruity red such as the local Vaduzer Beerle Pinot Noir style suits it well.
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