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When a cheese is made in a former Abbey, that is your first clue to buy it.
This month, Allison takes us to the Vosges foothills in France to sample a magically decorated cheese whose looks are only outdone by its taste.
Cheese Name: Fleur du Vignobles du Grand Pere Fischer
Milk Type: Cow’s milk
Style: Semi-firm Tomme
Description: This is a fascinating cheese made by la Maison Fischer in the tiny village of Beblenheim, Alsace. This beautiful area is dotted with tiny, picturesque villages nestled in the foothills of the Vosges Mountains. The dairy is located in a former Abbey, and the cheesemaker, Anne Mauler, is responsible for creating this cheese. What makes this lovely Tomme-style cheese different is the amazing blanket of flower petals it’s covered in after it reaches the desired ripeness. Petals from cornflowers, marigolds, roses and safflowers are all used to decorate the outside of the wheels, and the effect is stunning.
Tasting Notes: The cheese itself has a slightly nutty taste and a firm but still pliable paste. The use of the flower petals adds a unique flavour and aroma. Lightly fruity, nutty, and amazingly fragrant, it is a pleasure to try a distinctive new cheese from a traditional cheese-making region.
Pairing: This valley is full of amazing and historic winemakers, so it is a good bet that one of the classic Alsace-style whites will be a perfect match with this cheese. Add a simple salted cracker and some stone fruit, and you’re set.
GOW Suggested Wine Pairings:
