Autun Cheese

Autun cheese is a rare and artisanal fresh soft cheese originating from the Burgundy region of France. It is uniquely crafted using a blend of cow and goat milk, which contributes to its distinctive flavor and texture. The cheese is known for its creamy, spreadable consistency and a delicate, bloomy rind that hints at its artisanal roots. Autun cheese typically presents a pale ivory color with a soft, slightly moist surface. Its unique characteristic lies in the balance between the tanginess of goat milk and the mild, buttery notes of cow milk, making it a versatile choice for cheese enthusiasts.

Autun cheese takes its name from the historic town of Autun in Burgundy, a region renowned for its rich cheesemaking traditions. While not as widely documented as other French cheeses, Autun is a testament to the region's dedication to artisanal and small-scale production. It reflects the Burgundian emphasis on fresh, soft cheeses that highlight the quality of local milk. Though its exact origins are unclear, Autun cheese is believed to have been a staple in rural households, where blending cow and goat milk was a practical way to utilize available resources. Today, it remains a symbol of Burgundy's artisanal cheese heritage.

Autun cheese is made using a blend of cow and goat milk, which is gently pasteurized to preserve its natural flavors. The milk is then curdled using traditional rennet, resulting in a soft, delicate curd. The curds are carefully ladled into molds to drain, a process that helps achieve its creamy texture. After unmolding, the cheese is lightly salted and left to mature for a short period, typically a few days to a week. This brief aging allows the cheese to develop its characteristic bloomy rind while maintaining its fresh, soft interior. The artisanal nature of Autun cheese means that each batch may vary slightly, reflecting the skill of the cheesemaker.

Autun cheese offers a harmonious blend of flavors, with the tangy, slightly earthy notes of goat milk complemented by the creamy, mild sweetness of cow milk. Its aroma is fresh and lactic, with a subtle hint of mushrooms from the bloomy rind. The texture is luxuriously smooth and spreadable, making it a delight on the palate. The cheese's balanced flavor profile makes it approachable for those new to goat milk cheeses while still offering complexity for seasoned cheese lovers.

Autun cheese pairs beautifully with a variety of accompaniments. For a traditional pairing, serve it with crusty baguettes, fresh figs, or honey to enhance its creamy texture and tangy notes. It also complements light, fruity wines such as Sauvignon Blanc or a crisp Chablis. For a more adventurous pairing, try it with a dry cider or a Belgian-style wheat beer. On a cheese board, pair Autun with nuts like walnuts or almonds and a drizzle of lavender-infused honey for a touch of elegance.