This Saturday, October 1st, is the 71st Annual Chester County Day House Tour, the oldest house tour in the country and a unique local tradition. It should be a perfect weekend to travel through the countryside and explore the area’s most historically significant homes. This year’s tour winds through the southeast section of the county.
As experienced house tour folks know, there are two important preparations one must make to insure a successful day. The first is to attend one of the slide show previews so the day is prioritized accordingly. This is the best way to prioritize which houses you don’t want to miss during the day. The second key is laying out a tailgating menu that is as reserved as the homes being toured. Preparing one’s picnic is tantamount to a successful Chester County Day outing.
I chatted with Sarah Reese, the cheesemonger for Talula’s Table (102 W. State St.), to see what cheeses she recommends for this year’s Chester County Day picnickers. She was gracious enough to also recommend pairings with local craft beers and wines.
Here are Sarah’s choices:
Pairing One:
Meadow Creek Grayson, a washed-rind Virginia farmstead take on a traditional Taleggio. Thick, earthy and pungent, it is cut well by the bright spiciness of a Walt Whit White Ale. Also try local Birchrun Hills Farm Fat Cat, an earthy cow’s milk Chester County favorite.
Pair with this beer: Philadelphia Brewing Company’s Walt Whit, a Belgian-style White Ale (4.5% ABV)
Pair with wine: Pinot Grigio
Pairing Two:
St. Agur, a beautifully creamy cow’s milk blue from France. Thick pockets of deep blue molding with a dense and welcoming texture.
Pair with beer: Yards’ Philadelphia Pale Ale, crisp and hoppy (4.6% ABV)
Pair with wine: Riesling
Pairing Three:
Vermont Butter & Cheese Company‘s Cremont is a mild & creamy little round of goat and cow’s milk with a soft-ripened rind.
Pair with beer: Victory Brewing’s Hop Wallop Imperial IPA (8.5% ABV)
Pair with wine: Sauvignon Blanc
Sara notes that Talula’s Table also offers cheese plates to-go! Prices are $16-$20 for two, perfect for a picnic!
The weather looks to be crisp and clear on Saturday, so visit the house tour preview and choose your itinerary carefully, and pick up some fine cheese, craft beer or wine and head out to see some of the unique historic homes that make Chester County so beautiful.
While online ticket sales have concluded, some tickets remain to Chester County Day. Tickets are available on Saturday morning at the North Hills Building across from the hospital. A limited number of tickets will be available at each house on the tour. More information is available by clicking here.
