Meet the amazing Roquefort cheese

With origin in the south of France, Roquefort is a kind of blue cheese made from sheep’s milk. Edible blue mold is added to Roquefort cheese, which gives it a particular taste. Known as “King of Cheese” there’s a legend that says that it was discovered when a shepherd, who was having a meal of bread and sheep’s milk cheese was distracted by a beautiful maiden and left his meal. When he returned, the cheese covered in mold. Bravely, he tasted it and it was delicious.

How this cheese is made

Roquefort Cheese is made by adding Penicillium Roqueforti spores to the curd during the cheese making process. This particular strain of healthy, edible mold was discovered long ago in the Combalou Caves, the same caves where Roquefort Cheese is set to age today.
Roquefort is made entirely from the milk of the Lacaune breed of sheep. The production starts with raw milk, that is pasteurized. The acidification occurs when a starter culture is added to convert lactose to lactic acid, changing the milk from liquid to solid. Rennet is added to help coagulate the milk, and the curds are cut to release the whey. The curds are drained and formed into wheels. After it, it is added the Penicillium roqueforti and then left to age for 60 to 90 days, gaining the signature blue veins on the cheese.

The unique taste of Roquefort cheese

A favorite among kings and popes, this classic blue mold cheese is made from sheep’s milk and is easily recognized by its blue veins stretching across its white, creamy, crumbly body. Its distinctive blue-green veins provide a sharp tanginess to create a well-balanced complex, creaminess and a range of sweet, smoky and salty flavors.

How it should be sliced?

Roquefort is a crumbly cheese, which is why it is recommended to use a wide, rectangular, open-surface blade knife. Knives with holes are better for Roquefort and other blue cheeses, since the smaller surface area prevents the blue veins from sticking to the knife, which maintains the structural integrity of the slice.

Tips on how to enjoy Roquefort cheese

The Roquefort is a type of cheese that can be a start on any cheese board. However, it can also be use as condiment on salads, appetizers, meat dishes and low-fat fishes. Roquefort also pairs perfectly dried fruits, honey, Port wine and if you prefer a fantastic contrast flavor and textures, you can spread over the cheese our amazing Fig, Orange and Anise Jam, perfect for cheese like Roquefort.