12 Hospital Street, Nantwich, CW5 5RJ
01270 620799

12 Hospital Street, Nantwich, CW5 5RJ

Beaufort d’Ete AOC Cheese

Read Time: 5 minute(s)

Welcome to the distinguished world of Beaufort d’Été AOC, a cheese celebrated for its rich flavour and creamy texture. Originating from the serene mountains of the Savoie region in France, Beaufort cheese captures the essence of its alpine pastures. Recognised for its quality and tradition under the AOC (Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée) guidelines, Beaufort d’Été is made exclusively from the summer milk of cows grazing on alpine flora, which imbues the cheese with its unique characteristics. At Cheese Shop Nantwich, we are proud to offer this exceptional cheese, bringing a slice of French culinary artistry to your table.

Beaufort d'Ete cheese
Beaufort d’Ete AOC Cheese

Exploring Beaufort d’Été AOC: A Connoisseur’s Guide

The legacy of Beaufort cheese dates back several centuries, with its roots deeply embedded in the French Alpine tradition. The cheese is named after the small town of Beaufort in Savoie, which has been the hub of its production since Roman times. Beaufort d’Été, specifically, is crafted during the summer months when the cows are able to graze freely on the lush mountainous terrain, feeding on a diverse range of wildflowers and grasses. This seasonal diet significantly influences the flavour profile of the cheese, making the summer variety slightly sweeter and more floral than its winter counterpart, Beaufort d’Hiver.

The production process of Beaufort is a meticulous art form, adhering to strict AOC regulations that ensure its high quality. It begins with raw, full-fat milk that is heated and combined with rennet to start the curdling process. The curds are then cut, heated, and pressed into large wooden moulds. One of the distinguishing features of Beaufort is its concave wheel shape, designed historically to facilitate transportation across the mountains. After moulding, the cheese is salted and left to age for a minimum of five months, though some wheels are aged up to twelve months or more. During this time, the wheels are regularly turned and rubbed with salt water, which helps to develop a thick rind and a rich, complex flavour profile.

Tasting Profile

Beaufort d’Été AOC offers a symphony of flavours that are as complex as they are delightful. This cheese is known for its smooth, creamy texture that melts elegantly in the mouth, revealing layers of buttery richness. The taste of Beaufort d’Été is distinctly nutty, with undertones of floral sweetness that reflect the diversity of the alpine pastures. As the cheese matures, these flavours deepen and intertwine, producing notes of caramel and a slight hint of earthiness.

Pairing Suggestions

Beaufort d’Été AOC’s rich flavour profile makes it an excellent candidate for a variety of pairing options. Whether you are looking to enhance a meal or enrich a cheese platter, here are some expert recommendations:

  • Wine Pairings:
    • White Wines: A crisp Chardonnay or a floral Viognier complements the buttery notes of Beaufort d’Été, without overpowering its subtle flavours.
    • Red Wines: Opt for lighter reds such as Pinot Noir or a young Merlot, which provide a fruity balance to the cheese’s nutty and sweet tones.
  • Accompaniments:
    • Fruits: Fresh fruits like apricots, pears, and grapes are perfect companions, offering a refreshing contrast.
    • Nuts: Walnuts or hazelnuts add a delightful crunch and nuttiness that echoes the cheese’s intrinsic flavours.
    • Breads: A slice of crusty baguette or a chunk of walnut bread pairs wonderfully, providing a satisfying texture and flavour combination.
  • Non-Alcoholic Beverages:
    • Sparkling apple cider or a rich hot chocolate can be delightful non-alcoholic options that harmonize well with the cheese’s richness.

Similar Cheeses

While Beaufort d’Été AOC holds a unique position in the world of cheeses, there are several other varieties that share similarities with its rich flavour and texture. Here are a few cheeses that cheese enthusiasts might enjoy exploring:

  • Comté: Like Beaufort, Comté is a French AOC cheese made from raw cow’s milk in the Jura region. It shares a similar firm texture and complex flavour profile, with nutty and fruity notes that vary depending on the age of the cheese.
  • Gruyère: This Swiss cheese is another excellent Alpine variety that resembles Beaufort in its dense texture and rich, creamy taste. Gruyère is slightly sweeter than Beaufort but also features a wonderful complexity with hints of earthiness.
  • Abondance: Also hailing from the French Alps, Abondance offers a slightly tangier flavour compared to Beaufort but maintains a creamy, melt-in-the-mouth texture that is very satisfying.

Recipe Ideas

Beaufort d’Été AOC is a versatile cheese that can elevate many dishes, from simple snacks to more elaborate meals. Here are a few recipe ideas to get the most out of this exquisite cheese:

  • Beaufort Tart: Combine slices of Beaufort with onions and thyme in a pre-baked pastry shell. Bake until the cheese is bubbly and golden for a delightful meal.
  • Fondue: Melt Beaufort with a touch of white wine and garlic for a traditional Alpine fondue. Serve with cubes of bread, vegetables, and charcuterie for dipping.
  • Roasted Vegetables with Beaufort: Sprinkle grated Beaufort over seasonal vegetables and roast until the cheese is golden and vegetables are tender. This simple dish is perfect for a hearty, comforting meal.

Visit Cheese Shop Nantwich

If you’re intrigued by the delightful complexity of Beaufort d’Été AOC, why not experience it for yourself? At Cheese Shop Nantwich, we are dedicated to providing our customers with an extensive range of the finest cheeses from around the world. Beaufort d’Été is just one of the many premium selections we offer, chosen for its exceptional quality and distinctive flavours.

Visit our shop in Nantwich to explore our collection and receive personalised recommendations from our knowledgeable staff. For those who prefer the convenience of online shopping, our entire range, including Beaufort d’Été AOC, is available through our website. Whether you are looking to enhance a special meal, find the perfect gift for a fellow cheese lover, or simply treat yourself, Cheese Shop Nantwich is your destination for the finest cheeses.

Don’t miss out on our curated selection of artisan cheeses. Click here to explore Beaufort d’Été AOC on our website: Beaufort d’Été AOC at Cheese Shop Nantwich. We offer delivery throughout the UK, ensuring that you can enjoy our premium cheeses no matter where you are.

Discover the rich tastes and traditions of artisan cheese at Cheese Shop Nantwich. We look forward to serving you and helping you discover your new favourite cheese!

Based on old-world ideals with a loyalty to our family of local Artisan Cheese producers, we are a small, independently run business dedicated to the time-honoured traditions of the culinary and agricultural world of cheese.

Established recently, Nick Birchall (one of the partners of The Cheese Shop) has worked directly with producers for more than 20 years in order to select cheeses at their peak.

Our small staff of knowledgeable cheesemongers are experts in the field who love teaching through taste. We prioritise education in the art of properly maintaining cheese so that you can be assured of receiving the highest-quality products available.

Email:

info@cheeseshopnantwich.co.uk

Phone:

01270 620799

  1. French cheese
  2. AOC cheese
  3. Alpine cheese
  4. Semi-hard cheese
  5. Cow’s milk cheese
  6. Beaufort cheese
  7. Beaufort d’Été
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  14. Cheese culture
  15. Cheese history
  16. Savoury cheese
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  19. Cheese enthusiasts
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