Cutting open a 36kg wheel of Parmesan Reggiano, with a retail value of €1,200, is a skilful process that the cheese-buying public don't often get the chance to observe. Giorgio Cravero, a Parmesan affineur, or specialist in the ageing of cheese, will perform this fascinating manoeuvre, where the giant cheese is cut into at intervals with a variety of implements and prised apart neatly and cleanly, as part of a cheese and wine tasting night next Monday evening, April 13th.

It is being hosted by Sheridans Cheesemongers and will include tastings of 24- and 36-month aged Parmesan, as well as the company's own brand accompaniments. Enrico Fantasia of Grapecircus, who imports wine in conjunction with Sheridans, will have some bottles from the Emilia Romagna region, including a dry, sparkling Lambrusco, for attendees to try.

The event takes place at Café Joly at the National Library of Ireland, Dawson Street, Dublin 2, 6.30pm-8.15pm. It is free to attend, but tickets are limited and can be requested by sending an email to elisabeth@sheridanscheesemongers.com, by close of business tomorrow, April 8th.