How to Choose Fancy Cheese at a Grocery Store?

Walking into the cheese section of a grocery store can be both exciting and overwhelming. With so many options, from creamy Bries to sharp aged cheddars, choosing the right fancy cheese requires a bit of knowledge. Whether you’re planning a cheese board, pairing with wine, or simply looking for a new favorite, understanding what to look for will help you make the best choice.

Understanding Different Types of Fancy Cheese

Fancy cheese, also called artisanal or specialty cheese, comes in various textures and flavors. Some cheeses are soft and creamy, while others are firm and aged. Soft cheeses like Brie and Camembert have a smooth, buttery texture and mild flavor, making them great for spreading.

Semi-soft options, such as Fontina and young Gouda, have a little more structure but still melt well. If you prefer something more intense, aged cheeses like Gruyère, Manchego, and Parmesan develop complex, nutty flavors over time. Blue cheeses, such as Roquefort and Stilton, have a bold, tangy taste that pairs well with fruit and honey.

Checking the Origin and Ingredients

Many high-quality cheeses come from specific regions known for their cheese-making traditions. Parmigiano-Reggiano, for example, is only produced in certain areas of Italy, while Roquefort must be made in France. While grocery stores often carry locally produced versions of famous cheeses, checking the country of origin can give you an idea of authenticity and quality.

Equally important is the ingredient list. The best cheeses contain just a few simple ingredients: milk, salt, enzymes, and cultures. Avoid cheeses with unnecessary additives or preservatives, as these can affect the taste and quality.

Considering the Aging Process

The aging process, or affinage, plays a significant role in how a cheese tastes and feels. Younger cheeses tend to be softer, milder, and have higher moisture content, while aged cheeses are firmer, sharper, and often develop small crystals that enhance their texture. A young Gouda, for instance, is smooth and creamy, whereas an aged Gouda becomes dense and develops caramel-like flavors. Understanding how aging affects flavor can help you choose a cheese that suits your taste preferences.

Observing Appearance and Smell

When selecting cheese, appearance and smell provide important clues about freshness and quality. Cheese should be free from cracks, excessive dryness, or unwanted mold (unless it’s a natural part of the cheese, such as in blue varieties). The rind should be well-formed and not overly sticky or slimy.

Smell is another strong indicator of quality. Some cheeses, particularly washed-rind varieties, are naturally pungent, but if a cheese smells overwhelmingly sour or has an ammonia-like odor, it may be past its prime. Fresh cheeses should have a clean, milky scent, while aged cheeses should have a pleasant, nutty, or earthy aroma.

Pairing Cheese with Food and Drinks

Choosing the right cheese also depends on how you plan to enjoy it. If you’re making a cheese board, selecting a mix of textures and flavors creates a balanced experience. Soft cheeses like Brie pair well with crackers and fresh fruit, while aged cheeses like Parmesan and Manchego go well with nuts and dried fruit.

Wine pairings can enhance the flavors of cheese. Creamy cheeses such as Camembert complement sparkling wines, while sharper cheeses like aged Cheddar or blue cheese stand up well to bold red wines. If you’re using cheese for cooking, consider options that melt well, such as Fontina for fondue or Gruyère for French onion soup.

Asking for Recommendations and Sampling

Many grocery stores with a dedicated cheese counter allow customers to sample before buying. If you’re unsure, ask the cheesemonger for recommendations based on your preferences. They can suggest cheeses that match your taste, whether you prefer something mild and creamy or bold and complex. If samples aren’t available, reading descriptions and looking for tasting notes on the label can help guide your decision.

Buying the Right Amount

Fancy cheese can be expensive, but you don’t always need to buy a large piece. Many stores allow you to purchase small portions, which is ideal if you’re trying something new. A small wedge is often enough for a cheese board or a few servings, and it allows you to experiment without committing to a big purchase.

Proper Storage for Freshness

Once you’ve chosen your cheese, storing it correctly will help maintain its flavor and texture. Avoid wrapping cheese in plastic, as this can trap moisture and affect taste. Instead, use parchment paper or wax paper, followed by a loose layer of foil or a resealable bag with small holes for airflow. Store cheese in the vegetable crisper drawer of the refrigerator, where the humidity levels are ideal.

Hard cheeses last longer than soft cheeses, which should be eaten within a few days of opening. If you buy multiple cheeses, labeling them with the date of purchase can help keep track of freshness.

Choosing fancy cheese at the grocery store doesn’t have to be intimidating. By understanding different types, checking the origin and ingredients, considering aging, and evaluating appearance and smell, you can make an informed decision. Whether you’re pairing cheese with wine, creating a cheese board, or simply exploring new flavors, taking the time to choose high-quality cheese will enhance your experience and enjoyment.