Pierce Pt Cheese

artisan cheesesoft cheesecow's milkUnited StatesCaliforniaCowgirl Creamerybloomy rindcreamybutterymushroomyUnited Statescow milk

Origin

United States, California

Milk Type

cow

Texture

soft

Flavor

savory, tangy

Aroma

floral, herbal

Color

pale yellow

Rind

bloomy

Vegetarian

Yes

Price Range

💰€5-15 per kg

Also Known As

Pierce Point

What is Pierce Pt?

Pierce Pt is an exquisite artisan cheese hailing from the United States, specifically crafted by the renowned Cowgirl Creamery in California. This soft cheese is made from cow's milk and is celebrated for its lush, creamy texture and bloomy rind, which is a hallmark of its artisanal quality. The rind is edible, offering a slightly earthy and mushroomy contrast to the rich, buttery interior. Pierce Pt is often compared to the finest French cheeses, embodying a perfect balance between traditional cheesemaking techniques and innovative American craftsmanship. Its appearance is striking, with a velvety white rind encasing a soft, pale yellow interior that becomes more fluid as it ages.

History of Pierce Pt

Pierce Pt cheese is a testament to the artisanal cheese movement in the United States, particularly in California, where Cowgirl Creamery has been at the forefront of reviving and innovating traditional cheesemaking practices since the 1990s. Named after a scenic point on the Marin County coast, Pierce Pt reflects the creamery's commitment to sustainability, quality, and the expression of local terroir. This cheese is part of a broader trend in the U.S. towards producing high-quality, handcrafted cheeses that rival those from Europe, showcasing the potential of American dairy products on the global stage.

How Pierce Pt is Made

Pierce Pt is made from high-quality, organic 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 to begin the fermentation process, followed by the addition of rennet to coagulate the milk into curds. The curds are carefully ladled into molds, a technique that helps retain moisture and contributes to the cheese's creamy texture. After demolding, the cheese is aged for several weeks, during which it develops its characteristic bloomy rind through the application of Penicillium candidum. The aging process is meticulously monitored to achieve the perfect balance of flavors and textures.

Flavor Profile

Pierce Pt offers a complex flavor profile that is both rich and nuanced. The cheese has a creamy, buttery taste with subtle hints of mushrooms and earthiness from the rind. Its texture is luxuriously soft and smooth, becoming almost spoonable as it reaches peak ripeness. The aroma is inviting, with notes of fresh cream and a faint earthiness that hints at its artisanal roots.

Perfect Pairings for Pierce Pt

Pierce Pt pairs beautifully with a variety of foods and beverages. For a classic pairing, serve it with a crusty baguette and a glass of Champagne or a crisp, dry white wine like Chardonnay. It also complements fruit preserves, particularly those with a hint of tartness, such as apricot or cherry. For a more adventurous pairing, try it with a light, hoppy beer or a sparkling cider. On a cheese board, it pairs well with nuts, dried fruits, and charcuterie, offering a delightful contrast in textures and flavors.

Nutritional Information

Fat Content

High

Calcium Content

Moderate

Frequently Asked Questions

What makes Pierce Pt cheese unique?

Its unique combination of a creamy, buttery interior with a bloomy, edible rind that adds an earthy, mushroomy flavor.

How should Pierce Pt be stored?

Keep it in the refrigerator, wrapped in wax paper or cheese paper, to allow it to breathe and maintain its moisture.

Can Pierce Pt be used in cooking?

Yes, it melts beautifully, making it a great addition to warm dishes, though it's also delightful on its own or as part of a cheese board.

How long does Pierce Pt cheese last?

When stored properly, it can last for several weeks. Its flavor and texture will continue to develop as it ages.

Is Pierce Pt similar to any French cheeses?

Yes, it's often compared to Brie or Camembert due to its soft texture and bloomy rind, though it has its own unique flavor profile.

Related Cheeses