A Review Of Ile De France Brie

Brie is one of the most popular French cheeses and is known around the world. In France the best AOC Brie is made from unpasteurized cow milk however AOC certification has also been given to the pasteurized version. When in France always choose the unpasteurized Brie but here in the US we have no choice but to settle for the pasteurized version. However all is not lost in the taste department and several top quality brands of Brie can be found. A wheel of Brie will remain "alive" and continue to mature until it is first cut and then the aging or ripening will stop.

A young Brie will be a bit stiff but as it ripens the interior paste will continue to soften. Please note that a top quality ripe Brie will ooze or bulge but not run when it is cut (note the photo above). If the cheese is somewhat stiff it is most likely not quite ripe and will have a milder or bland flavor. A good ripe Brie is a delight to eat. Consuming Brie's bloomy white rind is always a personal choice but it is safe and enjoyable to eat. Brie melts well so it makes a nice addition to sandwiches or can be blended into soups.

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 Review: Ile De France Brie  is a factory made Brie  and commonly found in supermarkets. It is usually found in a younger state so if you purchase let it sit out at room temperature a few days before eating it. It has a VERY mild flavor and is missing all of the nuances that a quality Brie would contain. If it is sunken in or hard to the touch do not purchase it because these are signs it is past it's prime. Ile De France should be considered as an introduction to brie but I would chose one of the brands listed below as my starting point.

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 Best brands of Brie:  the imported Rouzaire brand of Fromage de Meaux Brie (Brie de Meaux)  is probably the best that is available here in the states followed by Rouzaire Brie Nangis, Chatelain Brie, Isigny Brie, Tour de Marze, and Bellerive Brie. We feel that you should treat yourself well, so buy the French imported brie instead of the factory made items found in the supermarket.

Wine Paring: Any assertive big French reds like Bordeaux or Burgundy will compliment a good brand of Brie.