"I first discovered Manchego when backpacking through Spain, where it was cut into little triangles alongside the country’s iconic quince paste spread. The slightly sharp flavor was balanced by a smooth nuttiness, and now I often add Manchego to cheese boards for a well-rounded mix of textures and styles. It pairs well with olives, meats and fruits, as well as almost any jam. Plus, this particular wedge won a 2019 Gold Medal at the World Cheese Awards, so you know it’s the best!" Jean-Fromage
ORIGIN: Spain
Replacement Suggestion: Président® Tomme de Brebis - 5.3oz or Président® Comte - 7.7oz
This cheese is royalty: it was nicknamed "the king of cheeses" as it became the favorite cheese of Kings and popes in France. Today though everyone likes Roquefort, speak of a French Revolution!
"Of all the cheeses in France to receive the coveted PDO status, Roquefort was the first! I do find it to be a truly remarkable blue cheese, with a flavor that is simultaneously rich, bold and balanced. Produced in Aveyron, France, it has become a symbol of the city and even has its own bacterial strain that grows natively in the caves where it is aged. While it is easy to enjoy Roquefort’s inimitable flavor in the simplest of ways, I find it to be even more delicious melted over a medium-rare steak."- Jean-Fromage
ORIGIN: France
Replacement Suggestion: Président® Le Blue - 3.5oz
One of the great washed rinds of Normandy, Pont L'Eveque became a PDO in 1972 but its recipe goes back 900 years… Speak about being patient for recognition. The oldest Norman cheese still in production!
"I first discovered Pont L'Evêque when visiting family in Normandy—an early childhood experience that may have inspired my career as a cheesemonger. Unusual in its square shape, it is one of the oldest cheeses in France, originally crafted by 12th century monks. To this day, this washed-rind cheese’s slightly sweet aroma is rumored to be reminiscent of the plentiful apple orchards in the region. I highly recommend serving it alongside apple slices or ciders for an authentic Normande experience." - Jean-Fromage
ORIGIN: France
Replacement Suggestion: Président® Camembert Bio - 8oz or Président® Double Crème - 8oz
Funny story, the inventor of positivsm last name was Comte. August Comte. Which makes me think, he would positively recommend this cheese! It is also the most popular AOP cheese in France!
"Fruity and nutty, with a rich soft texture, this alpine cheese brings back memories of the colorful wildflower fields and stunning vistas I encountered when hiking in the Jura Mountains. Crafted with the milk of grass-fed cows that are native to the region and aged on spruce planks, this cheese has earned the prestigious PDO designation, reserved for products crafted with traditional, artisan methods. As for how to eat it? Keep it simple. It’s perfect sliced for a picnic—ideally one with a mountain view!" Jean-Fromage
ORIGIN: France
Replacement Suggestion: Président® Manchego Wedge - 5.3oz or Black Diamond® Vintage Reserve Cheddar Aged 5 Years - 6oz