John Wm. Macy’s CheeseSticks, CheeseCrisps, and SweetSticks are, in just one word, amazing. But they deserve more than just one word. These light, crisp, flavorful snacks are delicious, and would complement many different wines in a casual cocktail party style wine tasting or event. We received several different boxes, and they’re all worth a quick review. All of them are light, layered, and crisp.
CheeseSticks
Original Cheddar
Genuine Cheddar, not the combination of salt, artificial flavors, and salt that one comes to expect in something labeled “cheese sticks.” Sourdough bread adds a tang, the cheddar a bite, both in a crisp twist about 5 inches long. The flavor reminds me cheese sticks my mother used to make, from scratch, for parties. Put them next to a glass of Zinfandel.
Melting Parmesan
Close your eyes, hold it up to your nose, and smell. Yup, Parmesan. Not “parmesan flavoring,” but real Parmesan cheese. These, too, have a sourdough base in a light, crisp twist. They truly taste like somebody just melted parmesan over a sourdough puff pastry. Snack on these between sips of Chianti Classico.
Dijon Swiss
Far more Swiss than Dijon, the cheese shines through. Only the barest hint of mustard adds tang, but doesn’t overpower. These would pair nicely with Syrah from Northern Rhone.
CheeseCrisps
Asiago & Cheddar
Asiago became trendy when somebody decided to put it on a bagel. If you want to put cheese on a bagel, it should start with “cream.” Okay, off my soapbox. These are salty, tangy, and have a tiny spicy kick. These come closer to tasting like “snack food” than anything else in the lineup. Pop them in your mouth and wash them down with Pinot Grigio.
Sesame Gruyére
These crisps have a rich mouth-feel. Surprisingly, they taste as if they were freshly-baked and lightly drizzled with sesame oil. Put these on a table next to a glass of Alsacian Gewurtzraminer and people will ask where you got them.
Smoked Jalapeño
Think Cheddar Sticks with a jalapéno kick. The jalapéno sneaks up on you, growing and then lingering.
SweetSticks
Java Cinnamon
Once again, Macy somehow manages to create a flaky, layered, crisp stick that, while dry, tastes fresh and moist. Did your grandmother ever make tiny little cinnamon rolls in the little cupcake pans? Mine did. These taste like those, but crisp. These go brilliantly with a cup of coffee.
Madagascar Vanilla
More! I must have more! Creme brulee in a twice-baked crisp twist. My wife and I fought over the last one. She won. These are just amazing, the best of a very good bunch. Drink with expresso me.