Cheese of the Month

The Cheese of the Month event, hosted by the League of Cheese Aficionados (LOCA), is a beloved Bridgeport tradition that has delighted cheese enthusiasts for decades. Held on the first Sunday of every month at The Salty Cardinal tavern, the event draws a diverse crowd - nobles, merchants, and common folk alike - all united by their shared appreciation for fine dairy and lively conversation.  

The Event Experience

  The tavern opens its doors at 10:30 am, greeting visitors with the rich aroma of freshly baked bread and an impressive spread of cheeses. For an entrance fee of five gold, attendees are treated to a selection of cheeses, accompanied by fine wines, bread, and seasonal fruit.   At 11:00 am sharp, a LOCA member delivers a lecture on a topic related to cheese - this might be a discussion on cheesemaking techniques, a lesson on pairing, or even a spirited debate on which decade produced the best cheeses. These speeches, while informative, are often sprinkled with dry humour and the occasional grumble from elder members who insist that "cheese simply isn't what it used to be."   The highlight of the event is, of course, the presentation of the Cheese of the Month - a carefully selected variety, typically sourced from the renowned cheesemakers of Syrgos. Guests have the opportunity to sample and analyse the selection, comparing notes and debating its merits over excellent food and drink.  

Challenges Threatening the Event’s Future

  Despite its enduring popularity, the Cheese of the Month event faces an uncertain future. Recent developments in Syrgos have caused major disruptions to LOCA’s supply chain, making it increasingly difficult to secure quality cheeses for each gathering. Meanwhile, Han’s rising demand for imported cheeses means that cheesemakers are prioritising higher-paying customers, leaving LOCA to fight over dwindling resources.   This growing crisis has led to grumbling among the League’s noble attendees, who are accustomed to only the finest selections and have made their dissatisfaction abundantly clear. Should this discontent lead to a loss of sponsorship, LOCA’s ability to fund future events could be in serious jeopardy.   With its storied past and dedicated following, the Cheese of the Month event remains one of Bridgeport’s most cherished traditions. However, unless the League finds a way to revitalise its selection and restore confidence in its leadership, this monthly gathering may soon become a thing of the past - and that, according to LOCA’s most passionate members, would be the greatest tragedy of all.