Langres “Fromagerie Germain”

Origin: Champagne-Ardenne region, France

Milk: Cow

Rennet Type: Animal rennet

Style: Washed rind

Classification: Artisan

Shelf Life: 7 - 10 days

Goes well with:Champagne or sparkling wine, Saison beer 

Similar cheeses: Époisses de Bourgogne, Munster, Soumaintrain

Langres AOC (LAW(n)-gruh) 

Langres is one of the great washed rind cheeses of France, produced in the Champagne region, in Haute-Marne, and named after the town of Langres which historically brought it to market. Often compared to Époisses or Munster, Langres stands apart with its unique shape and elegant intensity.

Recognisable by its truncated cylinder shape with a natural hollow at the top, Langres is a cheese that invites both curiosity and indulgence. Traditionally, this small cavity—known as the fontaine

Langres dates back to at least the 18th century, where it was already celebrated in local writings and songs. Originally made on farms for personal consumption, it gradually gained popularity as merchants began refining and distributing it to larger cities such as Paris and even Geneva.

Its characteristic shape comes from traditional draining in terracotta moulds, and unlike many cheeses, Langres is never turned during maturation. This gives the cheese its signature hollow top and allows the rind to develop evenly.

In 1991, Langres was awarded AOC status, protecting its origin, production methods, and regional identity, ensuring that this historic cheese continues to be made according to strict traditional standards.

Texture and Flavour

Texture:
Smooth and supple, with a slightly firm yet creamy paste that becomes softer as it matures.

Rind:
A fine, glossy rind ranging from brick-red to light brown, developed through regular washings in a humid cellar.

Flavour:
Pronounced and aromatic without being overwhelming. Langres offers a rich balance of savory, slightly salty notes, with a gentle creaminess and a subtle fermented depth typical of washed rind cheeses.

How to Enjoy

Langres is best enjoyed at room temperature, when its texture softens and its aromas fully open.

Serve with:

• Crusty bread or rustic sourdough

• A glass of Champagne or dry white wine

• Light accompaniments such as nuts or dried fruit

A Cheese with Character

Langres is a true expression of its region: bold, refined, and deeply rooted in tradition. With its distinctive shape, washed rind character, and rich history, it remains one of the most iconic cheeses of the Champagne region.

Because of this, Langres has earned a charming nickname among cheesemongers: “the lazy cheesemonger’s cheese.” No flipping required—nature and gravity do the work, creating its distinctive form and texture.

Ingredients: Pasteurised cow's milk, salt, cultures, animal rennet, annato extract.