Intense, beefy, earthy--all describe this 1+ lb. aged wheel (2 per case online)with a reddish, washed rind and the typical pungent odor to match. Named for a nearby monastery, Mont St. Francis is a hearty, stinky, cheese, semi-hard and rich. We love it but it's not for the faint of heart! One of our customers has described it as "a cheese you would not want to eat on a first date, but maybe on the 2nd if the first one went well." Because it is extreme, it pairs well with bourbon or fruity, fortified wines and sweet condiments. Also excellent with bitter beers. Usually available.

Pairings

Trying to think of something that this doesn't go with--from pickles and ESB beers to shaving it on peaches burned off with bourbon and brown sugar.  Chocolate also works, but our favorite condiment is a pear or pumpkin mostarda. Pairs well with: a spicy Pinot Noir; a fruity, late harvest Zin; and the sweet vanilla and caramel edges of a smooth bourbon.