Brin d'Amour

Producer

Various

Country

Corsica

Size

4 ins diameter, 2 ins high

Weight

1 lb

Website

Milk

Sheep

Classification

Semi Soft

Rennet

Animal

Rind

Herbed
Flavored
Natural

Made in Corsica from the milk of Lacaune ewes, Brin D'Amour is made by small-scale producers and shepherds on the island. The version of Brin d'Amour known as Fleur de Maquis, is very similar but prouced on a slightly larger scale.

The name Brin d'Amour means "a breath of love," and refers to the aromatic coating of rosemary, fennel seeds, juniper berries, and the occasional bird's eye chile applied during production to enhance the natural flavors present in the milk. The sheep freely browse Corsica's scrubby Mediterranean landscape.

When young, Brin d'Amour is firm and moist with citrus flavors and a slightly sour tang. With age, the rind becomes dotted with a blue-grey mold. The texture of the cheese also becomes softer, absorbing the savory and herbaceous flavors of the rind.

Flavors strike a delicate balance, with the herbs enhancing the warm, bright, sheepy quality of the interior paste. If allowed to mature fully, the pate breaks down and becomes runny and stronger tasting.

This cheese pairs well with many types of wines and especially with Tempranillo and Albarino.