Germain Epoisses Cheese

Epoisses (pronounced 'ay-PWOSS') is made in a small town in Burgundy, France and is one of the great notable cheeses of France and of the world. Each cheese is an entire wheel, cradled in a small wooden box. The rind is moist and reddish-brown after being washed in the spirit Marc de Bourgogne as it ripens. At perfectly ripe it smells like golden hay. No doubt about it, this one's pungent! Dip inside to find a soft interior which will drizzle off the spoon. The flavor is meaty and salty, like roast beef, salted peanuts, and butter. It tastes deliciously rustic but also creamy and refreshing with sour lemons lingering on the palate. Because of the strong flavor and aroma of this cheese, it is best served on its own, rather than used in cooking. It's divine with rich sweet flavors, like a tart cherry jam, Gewurztraminer, or Sauternes (or similarly nectar sweet wines). Another classic pairing is Epoisses with Red Burgundy. Truly a great gourmet cheese, Epoisses should rank high on your list of great cheeses to be both savored and appreciated.