Cazelle de Saint Affrique

Cazelle de Saint Affrique
Country of originFrance
RegionMidi-Pyrénées, Aveyron Department
Source of milkSheep
PasteurizedYes
TextureSoft
Aging time6-9 weeks

Cazelle de Saint Affrique is a soft-ripened, pungent cheese, made from pasteurized sheep's milk in the Midi-Pyrénées region of France. It is an artisan cheese, hand-fashioned in small rounds.

The cheese derives its name from the cazelle, a stone building common in Aveyron, the area where the cheese originates. Cazelles are used to house hay, and to shelter the local shepherds and their sheep.[1] The Saint Affrique portion of the name references the commune of Saint Affrique, where the cheese is processed.

The cheese is made in a manner similar to Crottin de Chavignol. At six weeks old it has a smooth, dense and slightly gummy texture. The flavor is mildly nutty, with a very clean finish. The edible rind is supple, with a slightly bitter flavor.[2]

References

  1. ^ "Whole Foods UK". Archived from the original on 2012-07-07. Retrieved 2009-09-25.
  2. ^ http://behindtherinds.blogspot.com/ [user-generated source]