Patrick Oconnell
Monteau cheese is a domestically made cheese that is aged for four months and is known for its well-balanced flavours. It is often paired with wine-soaked goat cheese and bergamot-rubbed fontina cheese to create a trio of specialty cheeses that are perfect for gatherings and delighting guests.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Type of Milk | Cow's Milk |
| Country of Origin | Spain |
| Age | 4 months |
| Taste | Fruity, Balanced |
| Texture | Creamy |
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Taste and texture
Monteau cheese is a domestically-made Spanish cheese with a creamy texture. It is aged for four months and has a perfect balance of tastes. The cheese is made from cow's milk and has a custom spice blend hand-rubbed into it, creating a unique and complex flavour profile. The spices complement the creaminess of the cheese, making it a favourite among those who enjoy a creamy texture in their cheese.
The spice blend used in Monteau cheese likely includes a variety of herbs and spices commonly used in Spanish cuisine, such as paprika, garlic, and oregano. These spices add a depth of flavour to the cheese, enhancing its savoury and slightly nutty taste. The four months of ageing also contribute to the cheese's flavour and texture, allowing it to develop a smooth and creamy mouthfeel.
Monteau cheese is known for its well-rounded and balanced flavour, with a subtle tanginess and a hint of sweetness. The cheese's creaminess comes from the use of cow's milk, which also imparts a rich and buttery mouthfeel. The spice blend adds a layer of complexity, with a slight kick from the spices that lingers on the palate. The combination of creamy texture and spicy flavour makes Monteau cheese a versatile ingredient that can be enjoyed on its own or used in various recipes.
When paired with other cheeses, such as goat cheese and bergamot-rubbed fontina, Monteau cheese offers a delightful contrast in flavours and textures. Its creamy texture and balanced taste can smooth out the stronger flavours of other cheeses, creating a harmonious combination that is perfect for gatherings and special occasions. The wine-soaked goat cheese, in particular, complements the fruity notes in Monteau, enhancing its complexity and making it a favourite among cheese connoisseurs.
Overall, Monteau cheese offers a delightful sensory experience with its creamy texture, balanced flavours, and subtle spice blend. Its versatility, whether enjoyed on its own or paired with other cheeses, makes it a popular choice for those seeking a unique and indulgent cheese experience. The combination of high-quality ingredients and expert craftsmanship ensures that Monteau cheese delivers a memorable taste and texture that keeps enthusiasts coming back for more.
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Nutritional value
Monteau cheese is made from pasteurized cow's milk and is aged for four months. It contains cheese cultures, salt, enzymes, and annatto (a natural colour). The nutritional value of Monteau cheese will be similar to other cheeses made from cow's milk, such as cheddar or Swiss cheese.
In terms of nutritional value, cheese is a good source of protein, calcium, and other minerals. It also contains essential amino acids, which are the building blocks of protein. Cheese can be a good source of healthy fats, such as conjugated linoleic acid (CLA), which has potential health benefits.
A typical serving of cheese (around 40 grams or 1.5 ounces) contains about 100 calories, 7 grams of protein, and 20% of the recommended daily intake of calcium. It also provides smaller amounts of vitamins A and B12, along with phosphorus and zinc.
However, it's important to note that the nutritional profile of cheese can vary depending on the type of milk used and the production methods. For example, goat's and sheep's milk cheeses tend to have higher levels of short- and medium-chain fatty acids, which may have different health effects compared to the long-chain fatty acids more commonly found in cow's milk cheese.
Additionally, the ageing process can affect the nutritional value of cheese. Aged cheeses tend to have higher concentrations of certain nutrients, such as omega-3 fatty acids and vitamins B2 and B12. They may also contain beneficial bacteria that contribute to digestive health.
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Origin
Monteau cheese is a domestically-made cheese from the United States. It is made from cow's milk and is aged for four months to deliver a perfect balance of tastes. The cheese has a creamy texture and is hand-rubbed with a custom spice blend.
Monteau cheese is often paired with other specialty cheeses, such as wine-soaked goat cheese and bergamot and hibiscus Fontal cheese, to create a delightful trio for gatherings. The wine-soaked goat cheese, also known as "Cello Monteau Winey Goat Cheese", is imported from Spain and made from traditional Spanish goat cheese soaked in red wine, resulting in a fruity flavour. The Fontal cheese is made from cow's milk and is infused with bergamot, hibiscus, and black tea, among other spices and natural flavours.
The Monteau cheese itself has a unique flavour profile due to the custom spice blend that is hand-rubbed onto the cheese. While the exact blend is not publicly known, it likely includes a variety of spices, herbs, and other flavourings that complement the creamy texture and mild flavour of the cheese.
The domestic production of Monteau cheese involves sourcing high-quality cow's milk, which is then pasteurized to eliminate any harmful bacteria. Cheese cultures and salt are added to the milk to initiate the cheesemaking process, and enzymes are used to curd the milk and develop the cheese's characteristic texture and flavour. Annatto, a natural colouring, is added to give the cheese its distinctive colour.
Overall, the origin of Monteau cheese can be traced to the United States, where it is crafted with care and expertise to deliver a delicious and well-balanced cheese that is perfect for enjoying on its own or pairing with other specialty cheeses.
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How to serve it
Monteau cheese is a domestically-made Spanish cheese that is aged for four months and is made from cow's milk. It is described as having a perfect balance of tastes. You can serve Monteau cheese in the following ways:
As Part of a Cheese Board
Monteau can be the star of a cheese board, served with crackers, bread, and accompaniments such as chutney, honey, or fruit. Its creamy texture and balanced flavour make it an excellent centrepiece, and it can be paired with other cheeses for a varied and interesting platter.
In Salads
Crumbled or grated Monteau can add a creamy, tangy dimension to a wide variety of salads. Its fruity notes could be particularly well-suited to a summer salad with berries, nuts, and a vinaigrette dressing.
In Sandwiches or Paninis
The creamy texture of Monteau lends itself well to being melted, so it could be an excellent choice for a grilled cheese sandwich or panini. Pair it with ingredients like sliced tomato, spinach, or pesto for a flavourful lunch option.
As a Topping
Monteau can also be used as a topping for dishes like pasta, potatoes, or vegetables. Its sharp, fruity flavour could add a delicious dimension to a variety of savoury dishes.
With Wine
As Monteau is a wine-soaked cheese, it pairs very well with a glass of wine. Offer it as part of a wine and cheese evening, or as an appetiser before a meal.
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How it's made
Monteau cheese is a domestically made cheese that is aged for four months. It is made from cow's milk, which is first pasteurised and then combined with cheese cultures, salt, enzymes, and annatto (a natural colourant). The cheese is then left to set using rennet, a natural coagulant derived from plants or animal sources, typically used in cheese-making.
After the cheese has set, it is cut into small curds, and the whey is drained off. The curds are then pressed and formed into the desired shape, likely in a mould or form, to create a solid cheese wheel or block. It is then left to age for four months, during which time it is carefully monitored and regularly turned to ensure even ageing and to prevent the development of unwanted bacteria.
Once the ageing process is complete, Monteau cheese is ready for consumption. It has a creamy, rich texture and a subtle, well-rounded flavour. The cheese is then hand-rubbed with a custom blend of spices, adding further depth and complexity to its taste. This spice rub likely includes a combination of herbs, spices, and perhaps dried fruits or nuts, though the exact blend is likely a closely guarded secret.
The final product is a cheese that delivers a perfect balance of flavours, appealing to cheese connoisseurs and casual enthusiasts alike. The process of making Monteau cheese is a delicate and precise art, requiring a careful eye and a deep understanding of the craft of cheese-making.
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Frequently asked questions
Monteau cheese is a traditional Spanish goat cheese that is soaked in wine. The cheese is then aged for four months and hand-rubbed with a custom spice blend. The result is a fruity masterpiece with a perfect balance of tastes.
Monteau cheese is made from pasteurized cow's milk, cheese cultures, salt, enzymes, and annatto (a natural colour).
Monteau cheese is unique because it is soaked in wine, which gives it a fruity flavour. It is also aged for four months, which gives it a strong and mature taste.
Monteau cheese can be purchased from specialty cheese shops or online retailers. It is often sold as part of a trio of specialty cheeses, including a wine-soaked goat cheese and a bergamot and hibiscus fontal cheese.
