The most widespread heart shape cheese. The story goes that the young women of Neufchâtel-en-Bray offered this cheese to their gallant knights during the Hundred Years War. The monks preferred to say that it represented the wings of an angel. This subject has been a bone of contention and a lovers dream. Close relation to the Camembert cheese in its texture and taste, some people actually prefer the Neufchâtel with its coarse taste and deeper rind.
Key Facts
Origin: Normandy region, France
Milk: Cow
Rennet Type: Animal rennet
Style: White Mould – Triple crème
Classification: Artisan
Shelf Life: 7-10 days
Goes well with:Cider, crisp white wine and pinot noir
Appearance: Shape: Heart-shaped Color: Pale ivory with a slightly golden hue Texture: Soft and creamy, with a smooth and velvety surface Rind: Thin and delicate, with a light dusting of white mold Aroma: Aromatic bouquet with hints of fresh milk and butter Subtle earthy undertones, reflecting the terroir of Normandy Taste: Initial impression: Silky smooth and luscious on the palate Flavor profile: Delicate sweetness balanced by a subtle tanginess Rich and creamy with a hint of nuttiness Slight saltiness adds depth to the overall flavor experience Mouthfeel: Texture: Luxuriously creamy, melting effortlessly in the mouth Creaminess: Decadently rich and velvety, coating the palate with lusciousness Moisture content: Perfectly balanced, ensuring a delightful creaminess without being overly wet Pairing Suggestions: Pair with a crisp, dry white wine such as Chardonnay or Sauvignon Blanc Serve alongside fresh fruit like ripe grapes, apples, or pears for a delightful contrast Enjoy with crusty bread or crackers to highlight the cheese's creamy texture tween eight and ten weeks, during which time the bloomy, edible white mould of the exterior hardens, developing the creamy interior consistency.
The Coeur de Neufchâtel cheese is a soft, and slightly crumbly cheese, usually compared to Camembert, produced in the French region of Normandy.
The perfect gift for Valentine's Day has got to be a heart-shaped cheese! And what better choice than one with a story as romantic as that of Coeur de Neufchâtel? Legend has it that during the Hundred Years' War, the maids of Neufchâtel-en-Bray in Normandy, France, many of whom were cheese makers, fell in love with British soldiers. As an expression of their affection, they started producing heart-shaped, soft cheeses, which they would sometimes give as gifts to their sweethearts.
Due to this romantic heritage, Coeur de Neufchâtel is traditionally sold in heart shapes of various sizes. The cheese is also available in small bricks, squares, and large or small cylinders from some of the AOC producers in the area. Following alterations to the AOC rules in 2007, the protected cheese is now only supposed to use the fresh, unpasteurized milk of the Normandie breed of cow. This cheese not only embodies a rich tradition of love and romance but also reflects the craftsmanship and dedication of the Normandy cheesemakers.
