Plancherin D Areches Cheese

Plancherin D Areches is a rare and exquisite soft cheese made from goat's milk, originating from the Savoie region in France. This cheese is celebrated for its delicate texture and creamy consistency, which becomes more pronounced as it ages. The rind is typically thin and slightly wrinkled, with a natural, bloomy appearance that hints at its artisanal production. Plancherin D Areches is known for its subtle earthy aroma and a flavor profile that balances the tanginess of goat's milk with a hint of nuttiness and a creamy finish. Its unique characteristics make it a prized find for cheese enthusiasts seeking to explore the depth of French artisanal cheeses.

Plancherin D Areches has its roots in the mountainous Savoie region of France, an area renowned for its rich dairy farming traditions and artisanal cheese production. This cheese is a testament to the region's commitment to preserving traditional cheesemaking methods, often passed down through generations. While not widely documented, Plancherin D Areches is a hidden gem within the French cheese landscape, embodying the essence of Savoie's pastoral heritage. Its production is closely tied to the local terroir, with the goats grazing on the alpine pastures contributing to the cheese's distinctive flavor profile.

The production of Plancherin D Areches begins with high-quality goat's milk, which is gently curdled using natural rennet. The curds are then carefully ladled into molds, allowing the whey to drain naturally, a process that contributes to the cheese's soft texture. After unmolding, the cheese is salted and left to age in a controlled environment, where it develops its characteristic bloomy rind. The aging process can vary, but it typically lasts for several weeks, during which the cheese's flavors deepen and its texture becomes creamier. Artisanal techniques, including hand-turning and careful monitoring of humidity and temperature, are crucial to achieving the cheese's unique qualities.

Plancherin D Areches offers a complex flavor profile that is both tangy and creamy, with a subtle nuttiness that complements the inherent earthiness of goat's milk. The aroma is mildly pungent, with hints of fresh grass and alpine herbs, reflecting the cheese's pastoral origins. Its texture is luxuriously soft and spreadable, making it a delight to savor on its own or as part of a cheese platter.

Plancherin D Areches pairs beautifully with a variety of foods and beverages. For a traditional pairing, enjoy it with a crisp white wine such as Sauvignon Blanc or a light-bodied red like Pinot Noir, which complement its tangy and creamy flavors. Beer enthusiasts might appreciate it alongside a Belgian-style Saison or a fruity Lambic. On the food front, Plancherin D Areches shines when accompanied by fresh baguette, fig jam, or a selection of nuts and dried fruits. For a more adventurous pairing, try it with a drizzle of honey or as a topping for a rustic tart.