Brie De Meaux AOC Cheese Wheel, Aged 8 Weeks - 7 lb (3.17 Kg), by Rouzaire, from France.

Since the Middle Ages, this artisanal cheese, specific to its region, has captivated many with its exceptional flavor. In 1814, Brie de Meaux was crowned "Le Roi des Fromages" (The King of Cheeses) at the Congress of Vienna for its superior taste and texture. It received AOC status in 1980, restricting its approved production to the Île-de-France area near Paris.

Rouzaire, a BRC-accredited family-owned business, has been producing artisanal cheeses in Tournan-en-Brie, France for three generations. Their Brie de Meaux is crafted from fresh, unpasteurized, uncooked, and unpressed cow's milk, then aged to perfection for 6-8 weeks. It has a smooth, pale yellow paste with a bloomy rind and a rich, milky flavor enhanced by sweet, buttery notes of mushrooms, truffles, and almonds. As it ages, its creamy taste deepens with subtle nutty undertones.  

To best enjoy this cheese, remove it from the refrigerator and let it sit at room temperature for 30-60 minutes. Then, use a cheese knife or wire to cut it into wedges or slices, and consider pairing it with:

Light Red Wines: Pinot Noir complements the creamy texture and richness of the cheese.

Sparkling Wines: Champagne or other sparkling wines help cleanse the palate and balance the cheese’s richness.

Fruity White Wines: A light, fruity white wine, like Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc.

Crusty Bread: Serve with slices of baguette, sourdough, or ciabatta to provide a crunchy contrast to the creamy cheese.

Crackers: Opt for mild-flavored crackers that won’t overpower the cheese, such as water crackers or whole grain options.

Fresh Fruits: Apples, pears, and grapes offer a refreshing sweetness that complements the cheese’s creamy texture.

Dried Fruits: Figs or apricots add a chewy, sweet contrast.

Honey: A drizzle of honey adds a sweet, floral note that enhances the cheese’s richness.

Fruit Preserves: Fig or apricot jam adds a sweet and slightly tangy contrast.

Mustards: Mild, grainy mustards can provide a zesty complement.

Pickles: Mild pickles or olives offer a tangy contrast that balances the cheese’s creaminess.

Cured Meats: Thin slices of prosciutto or salami add a savory element that pairs well with the cheese.