White mold cheese is one of the most popular cheese categories in the world, and for good reason. These soft, creamy cheeses with their distinctive white rind offer a whole world of flavors, from mild and buttery to intense and mushroomy. But what makes white mold cheese so special?
What is white mold cheese?
White mold cheese gets its name from the white rind that forms during ripening. This rind is created by the mold Penicillium candidum (sometimes called Penicillium camemberti). The mold is applied to the outside of the cheese and ripens from the outside in, which is why white mold cheese is often softer near the edges than in the center.
The ripening process typically takes 3 to 8 weeks, depending on the size of the cheese. The longer it ripens, the creamier and more intense the flavor becomes.
Popular types of white mold cheese
Brie
The most famous white mold cheese in the world. Originally from the Ile-de-France region, Brie de Meaux is the most authentic variety, protected by AOP designation. A well-ripened brie is creamy to runny beneath the rind, with a mild, buttery flavor and subtle earthy notes.
Camembert
Often confused with brie, but camembert is smaller and more intense in flavor. A true Camembert de Normandie is made from raw milk and has a bold, slightly ammonia-like aroma when properly ripened.
Le Campagnier
Le Campagnier is a popular white mold cheese you might also spot at your local supermarket. Made by Fromagerie Guilloteau, this cheese has an exceptionally creamy texture, almost spreadable, with a mild, slightly sweet flavor.
Fromage d’Affinois
This French white mold cheese is made using a special ultrafiltration process that gives it an exceptionally creamy texture. The flavor is mild and approachable, making it ideal for anyone just starting to explore white mold cheeses.
Roombrie
Roombrie is a Dutch take on brie, with extra cream added to the milk. The result is a soft, full-bodied cheese with a milder flavor than traditional brie.
Serving and pairing white mold cheese
The best way to enjoy white mold cheese:
- Temperature: take the cheese out of the fridge at least 30 minutes before serving. The flavors really shine at room temperature
- Bread: a baguette or plain crackers work best, letting the cheese take center stage
- Fruit: grapes, pear, figs and walnuts are classic pairings
- Wine: a dry Champagne, white Burgundy or light Pinot Noir
- Honey: a drizzle of honey on a slice of brie is a combination that never fails
Looking for more inspiration for your cheese board? Read our article on putting together the perfect cheese board.
Storing white mold cheese
Store white mold cheese in the fridge, loosely wrapped in parchment paper or cheese paper. The rind needs to breathe. Plastic wrap will strip the cheese of its character and cause the rind to sweat. Find more tips in our article on storing cheese.
Want to taste for yourself?
At Cheese In A Box, we carry these white mold cheeses fresh in our range:
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