Fleur d'Aunis Washed Rind Cheese

A Great Value Washed Rind Cheese - Fleur d'Aunis

I like Fleur d'Aunis cheese because it is a "value" cheese" however, it is still an imported cheese from France, so it's not that inexpensive.

Fleur d'Aunis is a distinctive French cheese from the Charente-Maritime department in the Poitou-Charentes region. Crafted from unpasteurized cow’s milk, it exemplifies the region’s rich artisanal traditions. Named after the ancient province of Aunis, it embodies the area's deep agricultural heritage and cheese-making expertise.

One can’t help but be drawn to the unique appearance of Fleur d’Aunis. Its floury rind, which gives the cheese its name, is a visual delight.

Typically dusted with flour, the cheese’s exterior is pale and soft, beautifully contrasting with its creamy, ivory-colored interior. This treatment not only enhances the cheese’s visual appeal but also adds a slightly rustic, earthy note to its flavor profile, complementing its smooth, rich taste.

Fleur d'Aunis boasts a soft, creamy texture, making it an ideal choice for spreading on crusty bread or crackers. Its flavor is mild yet complex, with subtle hints of nuts and a delicate tanginess that lingers on the palate. As the cheese matures, its flavor becomes more pronounced, offering a delightful depth that appeals to casual cheese enthusiasts and connoisseurs.

It is not just a cheese; it’s a culinary chameleon. Its delightful taste and texture make it a versatile ingredient in various dishes. Whether enjoyed on its own, as part of a cheese platter, or incorporated into culinary creations, it never fails to impress. It pairs beautifully with fresh fruits, nuts, and honey, elevating appetizers and desserts. And when it comes to beverages, it’s a perfect match for crisp white wines and light-bodied reds, enhancing the overall dining experience.

Fleur d'Aunis is a testament to the rich cheese-making traditions of the Poitou-Charentes region. Its unique appearance, creamy texture, and nuanced flavor make it a cherished addition to artisanal cheeses, celebrated by those who appreciate fine dairy craftsmanship.

Fleur d'Aunis Characteristics

Flour d'Aunis cheese has several distinct characteristics that set it apart from other cheeses. Here are the key features:

Origin: Hails from the Charente-Maritime department in the Poitou-Charentes region of France. Named after the ancient province of Aunis.

Milk Source: Made from unpasteurized cow's milk, which contributes to its rich, authentic flavor.

Rind: The cheese is notable for its unique floury rind, dusted with flour, giving it a pale, soft exterior. The rind adds a rustic, earthy note to the overall flavor profile.

Texture: It is soft and creamy, making it easy to spread. The interior is ivory-colored and smooth, offering a luscious mouthfeel.

Flavor Profile: Mild yet complex, with subtle hints of nuts and a delicate tanginess. As it matures, the flavor becomes more pronounced and deeper. The earthy notes from the rind complement the rich, creamy interior.

Maturation: The aging process enhances its flavor depth, increasing intensity over time.

Versatility: This can be enjoyed independently or as part of a cheese platter. Pairs well with fresh fruits, nuts, honey, and various bread and crackers. Suitable for culinary use in various dishes, from appetizers to desserts.

Pairings: Pair wonderfully with various beverages, including crisp white wines and light-bodied reds. Complements a variety of accompaniments, enhancing the overall tasting experience.

These characteristics make Flour d'Aunis a cherished cheese among those who appreciate fine, artisanal dairy products, celebrated for its unique appearance, creamy texture, and nuanced flavor.

 

Washed Rind Basics

Washed-rind cheeses are a distinctive category of cheese known for their robust flavors and aromatic rinds. These cheeses undergo a unique aging process in which the rind is regularly washed with brine, beer, wine, or other liquids. This washing encourages the growth of specific bacteria, particularly Brevibacterium linens, which contribute to developing the cheese's characteristic orange-to-reddish-brown rind and its potent aroma.

The washing process influences both the texture and flavor of the cheese. Washed rind cheeses often have a soft, creamy, and sometimes oozy interior, contrasting with their firmer, sometimes sticky rinds. The flavors are typically bold, ranging from savory and meaty to earthy and tangy, with a distinctive pungency that sets them apart from other cheese varieties.

Popular examples of washed rind cheeses include French classics like Époisses and Munster, Belgian Limburger, and Italian Taleggio. These cheeses are often enjoyed independently or with simple accompaniments like bread and fruit, allowing their complex flavors to shine.

The unique qualities of washed rind cheeses make them a favorite among cheese enthusiasts, who appreciate their rich, intense flavors and the artisanal techniques involved in their production.

Fleur d'Aunis - The Short of It

• Milk Type: pasteurized cow’s milk
• Region: Charentes-Poitou - north-west coast of France
• Country: France
• Type: Semi-soft
• Shape: Round
• Wheel Weight: 6.5 pounds
• Rind: Sticky, gritty to the touch, pale orange, edible
• Paste: Golden yellow, smooth but with fissures & a little rubbery
• Taste: rich, buttery, nutty & just a little bit tangy
• Aroma: The rind smells like wet hay in a barn while the paste smells nutty with mushroom aromas
• Fat content: 50%
• Aging Time: 1 month
• Texture: Creamy