Alex James Co No 3 Valley Brie Cheese

Alex James Co No 3 Valley Brie is a luxurious soft cheese hailing from the United Kingdom, crafted from cow's milk. This cheese is celebrated for its creamy texture and bloomy rind, which encases a sumptuously soft interior. The rind is edible and adds a subtle earthy flavor to the overall taste profile. Its appearance is characterized by a pale ivory interior and a white, velvety rind, making it a visually appealing addition to any cheese board. The cheese's unique characteristics include its rich, buttery flavor with hints of mushroom and a slight tanginess, which becomes more pronounced as it ages.

Alex James, the bassist of the band Blur, turned cheesemaker, has brought his passion for music and cheese together in the creation of the Alex James Co No 3 Valley Brie. This cheese is part of his collection of artisanal cheeses, produced in the lush valleys of the UK. James's venture into cheesemaking is a testament to his love for the craft and his dedication to producing high-quality, artisanal cheeses. The No 3 Valley Brie is a reflection of the rich cheesemaking traditions of the UK, with a modern twist that appeals to contemporary palates.

The production of Alex James Co No 3 Valley Brie begins with high-quality cow's milk, which is gently pasteurized to ensure safety while preserving the milk's natural flavors. The milk is then inoculated with specific cultures and rennet to initiate curdling. Once the curd forms, it is carefully ladled into molds, allowing the whey to drain naturally. The cheese is then salted and aged in a controlled environment, where it develops its characteristic bloomy rind. The aging process is crucial, as it allows the flavors to mature and the texture to become luxuriously creamy.

Alex James Co No 3 Valley Brie offers a rich and buttery flavor with a creamy, melt-in-your-mouth texture. The edible rind adds a subtle earthy and mushroomy note, while the interior is soft and slightly tangy. As the cheese ages, the flavors deepen, offering a more pronounced tanginess and complexity.

This brie pairs beautifully with a variety of foods and drinks. For a traditional pairing, serve it with crusty bread, fresh fruits like apples and pears, and a glass of Champagne or a light-bodied Chardonnay. For a more innovative approach, try it with honey, nuts, or a fruity chutney. It also complements a range of beers, particularly those with a malty profile or a crisp lager.