Delice cheese, often referred to as “Delice de Bourgogne,” is a French triple-crème cheese known for its rich, buttery flavor and incredibly smooth, luscious texture. This cheese is a true celebration of indulgence, crafted for those who appreciate the finer things in life.
Origin and Production
Delice de Bourgogne hails from the Burgundy region of France, a region renowned for its rich culinary traditions and exceptional dairy products. The term “triple-crème” signifies that the cheese has a butterfat content of at least 75%, which contributes to its decadent character.
The production process involves:
Aging: The cheese is aged for a relatively short period, typically a few weeks, allowing it to develop its creamy consistency while retaining a fresh, milky flavor.
Enriched Milk: High-quality cow’s milk is enriched with crème fraîche, adding extra fat and creating the cheese’s signature richness.
Careful Handling: The curds are gently handled to preserve their delicate texture.
Delice cheese is characterized by:
Appearance: It has a bloomy rind, similar to Brie, which is thin, white, and edible. The interior is a pale ivory color.
Texture: Its most defining feature is its texture—incredibly smooth, creamy, and almost spreadable at room temperature. It’s often described as “melting” in your mouth.
Flavor: The flavor is rich, buttery, and slightly tangy, with a subtle sweetness. It’s not as pungent as some other French cheeses, making it approachable and enjoyable for a wide range of palates.
Delice cheese is a truly indulgent experience, a testament to the art of French cheesemaking.
How to Enjoy Delice Cheese
Delice cheese is best enjoyed when it’s at room temperature, allowing its creamy texture and delicate flavors to fully express themselves. Here are some serving suggestions:
- On its own: Simply spread it on a crusty baguette or a plain cracker to appreciate its pure, unadulterated flavor.
- With fruit: Pair it with fresh berries, figs, or pears for a touch of sweetness and acidity that complements the cheese’s richness.
- With honey or jam: A drizzle of honey or a dollop of fruit jam can add another layer of flavor complexity.
- As a dessert: Delice cheese can be served as a decadent dessert cheese, paired with sweet wine or Champagne.
Wine Pairing
To complement its richness, Delice de Bourgogne pairs well with:
- Champagne or Sparkling Wine: The bubbles and acidity cut through the cheese’s richness, providing a refreshing contrast.
- White Burgundy: A classic pairing, as the wine’s buttery notes and minerality enhance the cheese’s flavor.
- Light-bodied Red Wine: A fruity, low-tannin red wine like Pinot Noir can also work well, providing a subtle counterpoint to the cheese’s creaminess.
Delice cheese is a truly indulgent experience, a testament to the art of French cheesemaking. Its luxurious texture and delicate flavor make it a perfect choice for special occasions or any time you want to treat yourself to a taste of pure decadence.
