Beaufort (cheese)

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Beaufort
Country of origin	France
Region, town	Savoie
Source of milk	Cows
Pasteurized	No
Texture	Hard
Aging time	12-15 months
Certification	French AOC 1968

Beaufort is a hard, somewhat sharp cheese made from cow's milk and is similar to gruyère. It is produced in the area around Beaufort located high in the French Alps in the Savoie region of France. It is this high altitude that imparts Beaufort with a unique flavor.

There are three varieties of Beaufort:

• Beaufort de Savoie (or summer Beaufort)
• Beaufort d’alpage (made in chalets in the Alps)
• Beaufort d'hiver (winter Beaufort)

[edit] Preparation

Beaufort cheese is prepared using 130 gallons of milk for every 99 pounds of cheese desired. The milk used in one variety comes from the Tarentaise or Abondance cows that graze in the Alps. First, the milk is heated and then the cheese is cast into its molds, pressed, and slated. The prepared cheese must then age for 6-12 months, or even longer, in a cool mountain cellar. During this period, the cheese takes on its yellow color and acquires much of its flavor.

[edit] Taste and Texture

Beaufort cheese lacks holes yet is similar to gruyère, comté or Emmental. However, it is often considered even superior in taste. Beaufort also has a very distinct aroma reminiscent of the pastures on which graze the Tarentaise and Abondance cows, which provide the cheese's milk.

Beaufort is commonly used to make cheese fondue because it melts easily. One of the few cheeses that go well with white wine, Beaufort is often enjoyed with salmon.