Amablu Blue Cheese

Amablu Blue Cheese, also known as Amablu® St. Pete's Select, is a distinctive artisan blue cheese originating from the United States. Crafted from cow's milk, this semi-soft cheese is celebrated for its rich, creamy texture and striking blue veins that meander throughout its ivory-colored paste. The cheese's rind is natural and often exhibits a slightly rugged appearance, adding to its artisanal charm. Amablu Blue Cheese is aged for a minimum of 90 days, allowing the development of its complex flavors and the characteristic blue mold to flourish. Its unique taste profile and texture make it a favorite among blue cheese aficionados, offering a perfect balance between boldness and creaminess.

Amablu Blue Cheese has its roots in the heart of the United States, where it is produced by the Faribault Dairy Company in Minnesota. This cheese is a testament to the American artisan cheese movement, showcasing the ability to produce world-class blue cheeses domestically. The Faribault Dairy Company has a rich history dating back to the 1930s, specializing in the aging of blue cheeses in sandstone caves along the banks of the Cannon River. These natural caves provide the ideal humidity and temperature conditions for aging blue cheese, a tradition that has been passed down through generations. Amablu Blue Cheese is a proud representation of this heritage, embodying the craftsmanship and dedication of its makers.

Amablu Blue Cheese is made from high-quality cow's milk, which is carefully selected to ensure the best flavor and texture. The milk is pasteurized and then inoculated with Penicillium roqueforti, the mold responsible for the cheese's characteristic blue veins. After curdling, the curds are cut, drained, and hand-salted before being shaped into wheels. The cheese is then aged in the sandstone caves of Faribault for at least 90 days. During this time, the cheese is regularly pierced to allow air to enter and encourage the growth of the blue mold, which contributes to its distinctive flavor and appearance.

Amablu Blue Cheese offers a complex flavor profile that is both bold and nuanced. It has a creamy, slightly crumbly texture that melts in the mouth, releasing a symphony of flavors ranging from tangy and spicy to sweet and nutty. The blue veins impart a sharp, piquant taste that is balanced by the cheese's underlying creaminess. Its aroma is earthy and inviting, with hints of mushroom and a subtle sharpness that is characteristic of well-aged blue cheeses.

Amablu Blue Cheese pairs wonderfully with a variety of foods and beverages. For a classic pairing, serve it with a robust red wine like Cabernet Sauvignon or a sweet dessert wine such as Port. Beer enthusiasts will appreciate its match with a rich, malty stout or a hoppy IPA. On the food front, Amablu Blue Cheese shines on a cheese board accompanied by fresh or dried fruits, nuts, and artisanal crackers. It also makes a delightful addition to salads, burgers, and pasta dishes, adding depth and complexity to each bite.