What is Affinage?

Affinage - The art of selecting, nurturing and maturing cheese to achieve peak ripeness, superb texture, and genuine flavor. It is the craft of a specialized group of craftsman, known as Affineurs.

Affinage begins with the selection of cheeses which starts at the farm. Cheeses reflect their environment, or ''terroir'' – the term which refers to the combination of soil, sunshine, water, and grass on any particular farm. As with wine, just as different micro-climates impact the grape, the micro-climate has a similar impact on the grass or fodder consumed by the milk-producing animal, its own milk and, consequently, the cheese produced from that milk.

By understanding the nuances of each terroir and how cheese matures, the affineur is able to select the best cheeses from each region at varying times of the year. Each region may offer hundreds of cheeses from multiple cheese makers. It is the affineur's discerning palate and experience that guides him to select only those cheeses that will possess the most interesting character, texture and flavor upon maturing to peak ripeness.

After selection, the affineur nurtures the cheese to bring out its best character. Some cheeses are brushed to keep their rinds breathing properly. Others are turned over to distribute minerals evenly throughout the cheese. Still others are washed to help retain moisture, while some cheeses are bathed in wine, brandy, spirits or brine. Just as different regions offer a variety of cheeses, different methods of nurturing also yield a diverse assortment of cheeses.

Over time, the cheeses mature. Artisanal's affineurs age the selected cheeses in our temperature and humidity-controlled cheese caves. In these caves, the cheeses lose moisture and gain flavor intensity. Their textures may change and their subtle flavors emerge. Under the watchful eyes of our affineurs, our cheeses develop beautifully and reach their fullest potential.

At different points throughout the year, cheeses mature and become A Point, or perfectly ripe. We are proud to present such a selection below – cheeses that are perfect for enjoying immediately.

Discover the difference of affinage, and taste the difference!