Morbier

Morbier (meaning “small market-town”) is produced in the village of Morez in the Jura mountains. Its creation dates from the 19th century. Its origin was for the personal consumption of the Comte cheese makers. Each night soot was sprinkled on the fresh curd that remained at the bottom of the barrel, which prevented a rind from forming and kept the insects away. The next day, left over pieces of cheese were put on top to make the Morbier. The cheese is uncooked and pressed, and allowed to mature for two months. It is then brushed with salty water. The shape is round with sides that bulge slightly ; it has a horizontal black furrow through the middle. The production of this cheese is protected by a special label from the Franche-Comte; it belongs to the AOC family. Its taste is savoury and fruity. During the maturing period, the cheese develops a natural fine rind. The pale yellow pâte is supple and soft when touched, dry and sticky at the same time.
Region: Frache-Comté
Milk: Cow
Seasons: All Seasons
Classification: Semi-Soft
Weight and Shape: 5-9Kg Wheel

Tasting Notes:

It has a soft and delicate paste, a rather pronounced flavour and a mild, milky aroma. The more it ages, the sweeter and stronger the taste.

How to enjoy:

Serve with a local Arbois wine or light and fruity wines like Beaujolais or Jura

Pairing:

White wine: Etoile (Chardonnay, Savagnin grapes)
Red Wine: Mercurey (Pinot Noir grape)
Sources: The World Cheese Book (Editor-In-Chief: Juliet Harbutt)
References: fromages.com | murrayscheese.com