Tamie Cheese

Tamie cheese is a soft, artisan cheese originating from the Savoie region of France, known for its lush pastures and rich dairy traditions. This cheese is made from cow's milk and is characterized by its creamy texture and bloomy rind, which is typical of soft-ripened cheeses. The rind is edible and adds a slightly earthy flavor to the cheese. Tamie cheese is often compared to other soft cheeses like Brie or Camembert but has a unique profile due to its specific aging process and the terroir of the Savoie region. Its appearance is marked by a soft, white exterior with a creamy, almost runny interior when perfectly ripe.

Tamie cheese is named after the Abbaye de Tamié, a Cistercian monastery in the French Alps, where the cheese was originally produced by monks. The tradition of cheesemaking in monasteries dates back centuries, serving both as a means of sustenance and a way to support the monastic community. The monks of Abbaye de Tamié have been producing this cheese for generations, using methods passed down through the ages. The cheese is a testament to the region's dairy farming heritage and the monks' dedication to preserving traditional cheesemaking techniques.

Tamie cheese is made from pasteurized cow's milk, which is curdled using rennet. The curds are then gently ladled into molds, allowing the whey to drain naturally. This process helps achieve the cheese's characteristic soft texture. After unmolding, the cheese is salted and then aged in the cool, humid cellars of the abbey for several weeks. During this time, the cheese develops its bloomy rind through the growth of Penicillium candidum. The aging process is carefully monitored to ensure the cheese reaches its optimal flavor and texture.

Tamie cheese offers a delicate and buttery flavor with hints of mushroom and a slight tanginess from the bloomy rind. Its texture is creamy and smooth, becoming almost liquid near the rind as it ages. The aroma is mild and earthy, with a subtle milky sweetness that complements its rich, indulgent taste.

Tamie cheese pairs beautifully with a variety of foods and beverages. Traditional pairings include crusty French bread, fresh fruits like apples and pears, and nuts such as walnuts or almonds. For drinks, a light, crisp white wine like Chardonnay or a sparkling wine such as Champagne complements its creamy texture. Beer enthusiasts might enjoy it with a Belgian-style ale or a light lager. For a more adventurous pairing, try it with a drizzle of honey or a fig jam to enhance its natural sweetness.