Washed Rind

To better serve you, washed rind a la carte cheese, meats, and pairings are (temporarily) not available for preorder.

Please come see us in the shop and we will be thrilled to connect you with the artisan products you crave!

More about Washed Rind cheese we carry

Delve into the world of washed rind cheeses, a category prized for its distinctive aromas and complex flavors. Unlike other cheeses, washed rind varieties are lovingly bathed in brine, beer, wine, or other flavorful liquids during the aging process. This washing encourages the growth of beneficial bacteria, creating the characteristic orange or reddish rind and imparting a bold aroma that hints at the rich, savory flavors within. For those who appreciate cheese with depth, washed rind varieties offer an unforgettable sensory experience.

Our selection of washed rind cheeses includes iconic options like Taleggio, Époisses, and Reblochon. These cheeses are known for their creamy or semi-soft textures, offering a delectable contrast between their earthy rinds and smooth interiors. Each type of washed rind cheese has a distinct profile, with flavors ranging from mildly earthy to robustly pungent, making them a favorite among cheese connoisseurs who enjoy complex taste sensations.

Washed rind cheeses are often enjoyed at room temperature, allowing their full flavors and textures to shine. These cheeses pair wonderfully with a variety of foods and drinks, especially those with complementary flavors. Try pairing a washed rind cheese with crusty bread, fresh fruits, or nuts for an easy appetizer, or serve it with wines like Gewürztraminer or Belgian-style ales to highlight its savory notes. With a unique profile that combines creamy textures with bold flavors, washed rind cheeses are the perfect choice for adventurous palates.

Whether you're a seasoned cheese lover or just beginning to explore bolder cheeses, our collection of washed rind varieties has something to satisfy your taste. Their rich flavors and distinctive aromas make washed rind cheeses a memorable addition to any cheese board, enhancing gatherings and culinary creations with their signature depth and character. Embrace the boldness of washed rind cheeses and experience the flavors that set them apart from the rest.

Here are some examples of washed rind cheeses we carry:

Afterglow

Afterglow is a unique, washed-rind goat cheese that combines the richness of creamy cheese with a touch of complexity from its edible rind. Washed in absinthe, this cheese has an herbal, slightly sweet flavor that complements its tangy, bright interior. Perfect for those looking to explore bolder cheeses, Afterglow pairs well with honey, nuts, and fresh bread.

Cabra La Mancha

Cabra La Mancha is a firm, aged Spanish goat cheese with a smooth texture and robust flavor. This cheese offers nutty and slightly tangy notes, balanced with a mild sweetness, making it versatile for both snacking and cooking. Cabra La Mancha pairs beautifully with red wines and fresh fruits, offering a taste that reflects the rustic landscape of Spain.

Époisses (Read more here.)

Époisses is a famous French washed-rind cheese known for its pungent aroma and soft, creamy texture. Washed in brine and Marc de Bourgogne, a regional brandy, Époisses develops a rich, savory flavor with earthy and slightly smoky undertones. Its gooey interior and strong aroma make it a delightful choice for cheese lovers seeking bold experiences. Serve with crusty bread and enjoy with a Burgundy wine for a true French experience.

Grayson

Grayson is an American washed-rind cheese from Virginia, inspired by classic Taleggio but with a unique Southern twist. Made from cow’s milk, Grayson has a creamy, supple texture and a robust, meaty flavor with hints of grass and earth. Its bright orange rind and complex taste make it a standout on any cheese board, pairing well with rich ales or full-bodied wines.

Langres from Germain (France)

Langres is a decadent French cheese crafted from raw cow’s milk, known for its creamy, soft texture and unique washed rind. This cheese features a characteristic dimple on its top, traditionally filled with Champagne or Calvados for a luxurious touch. With its tangy, earthy flavor and buttery richness, Langres is a perfect centerpiece for cheese boards, paired with crusty bread and sparkling wine.

Oma

Oma is a Vermont-made washed-rind cheese with Alpine inspiration, crafted from organic cow’s milk. It has a balanced, buttery flavor with earthy notes and a soft, pudding-like texture that melts on the palate. Oma’s delicate rind adds a hint of rustic flavor, making it perfect for pairing with crusty bread, pickles, and a crisp cider or white wine.

Pont l’Évêque

Pont l’Évêque is one of France’s oldest cheeses, known for its creamy texture and distinctive orange rind. This washed-rind cheese has a smooth, custardy interior with a mild yet complex flavor that’s both earthy and slightly fruity. Its soft, springy texture makes it an ideal table cheese, pairing beautifully with cider, light red wines, and dried fruits.

Quadrello di Bufala

Quadrello di Bufala is a washed-rind buffalo milk cheese from Italy, offering a creamy, rich texture and a tangy, slightly sweet flavor. The buffalo milk lends this cheese a unique richness, while the washing process adds depth and mild pungency to its taste. This cheese pairs well with crusty bread, figs, and sparkling wines for a delightful Italian experience.

Red Hawk

Red Hawk is a triple-cream, washed-rind cheese made by Cowgirl Creamery in California. Known for its soft, buttery texture and vibrant orange rind, Red Hawk has a rich, savory flavor with hints of salt and umami. Its bold aroma and creamy interior make it a favorite among fans of full-flavored cheeses. Pair it with fresh bread, apple slices, and a robust red wine.

Rush Creek Reserve

Rush Creek Reserve is a seasonal, raw milk cheese from Wisconsin with a thin, bark-wrapped rind that imparts a subtle woodsy aroma. Inspired by Vacherin Mont d’Or, Rush Creek Reserve has a rich, custard-like texture and a flavor that’s both savory and slightly smoky. Best enjoyed by scooping the soft cheese directly out of its rind, this cheese pairs beautifully with crusty bread and charcuterie.

Taleggio

Taleggio is a classic Italian washed-rind cheese with a semi-soft, creamy texture and a mild yet tangy flavor. Known for its fruity and slightly salty profile, Taleggio has a thin, orange-pink rind that gives it a delicate earthiness. This cheese melts wonderfully, making it versatile for cooking or serving on a cheese board with olives, roasted vegetables, and a glass of Chianti.

Timberdoodle

Timberdoodle is an American washed-rind cheese inspired by French Reblochon, made from cow’s milk with a smooth, creamy texture. It has a mild yet earthy flavor with hints of butter and mushrooms, perfect for cheese boards or melting in dishes. Timberdoodle pairs well with light, fruity wines and fresh fruits, offering a comforting, mild flavor that appeals to a wide range of palates.

Winnimere

Winnimere is a Vermont-made, bark-wrapped cheese with a gooey texture and smoky, woodsy flavor. This seasonal, washed-rind cheese is made from raw cow’s milk and has a rich, savory profile with hints of bacon and forest notes. Inspired by Swiss Vacherin, Winnimere is best enjoyed by spooning its soft interior onto bread or crackers and pairing with a robust beer or cider.

Learn more about washed rind cheese by attending an event here.