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
Characteristic | Details |
| Milk Source | Cow’s milk |
| Texture | Semi-soft to soft; supple and smooth |
| Aging | Around 4 to 6 weeks |
| Flavor | Mild to tangy, with grassy, milky notes and a touch of earthiness |
| Aroma | Washed rind funk with a slight fruity, yeasty scent |
| Rind | Washed in Pineau des Charentes (a fortified wine), orange-hued and tacky |
| Interior | Pale ivory, soft, and uniform in paste |
| Size | Small wheel, typically ~200–250 grams, 10–12 cm diameter |
| Versatility | Good on cheese boards, melts well, pairs nicely with fruit or cured meats |
| Region | Charente-Maritime, Nouvelle-Aquitaine, western France |
| AOC/Protected Status | Not AOC/PDO protected |
| Milk Treatment | Thermized or pasteurized (depends on the producer) |
| Coagulation Type | Lactic coagulation with some rennet |
| Shape | Round wheel |
| Color (Interior/Rind) | Interior: ivory to pale yellow; Rind: orange to reddish-orange |
| Shelf Life | Moderate; best consumed within a few weeks |
| Serving Temperature | Room temperature to develop full aroma and flavor |
| Traditional Season | Year-round, but best in spring and early summer |
| Diet of Cows | Primarily pasture-fed with regional flora influence |
| Culinary Uses | Excellent melted on bread, paired with charcuterie, or on a warm salad |
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.
