Livarot AOP - Père Gauthier
Normandy's Iconic Washed Rind Cheese
TASTING NOTES FROM THE CURATOR
Livarot is a cheese that announces itself even before the first bite. With its deep amber-orange rind, washed regularly in brine and annatto, and its unmistakable aroma, it carries the soul of rural Normandy. The paste is supple, almost custardy, veined faintly with small eyes and ranging in hue from ivory to warm yellow.
On the palate, Père Gautier’s Livarot is assertive yet harmonious—meaty, earthy, and slightly tangy with a pungency that lingers gracefully. Its rind, slightly sticky and richly aromatic, adds a savory layer that balances the creaminess of the paste. As it matures, its flavor intensifies, developing complex notes reminiscent of barnyard hay, fermented butter, and a whisper of cured ham. Each bite feels like a step through the misty pastures of northern France, where cows graze contentedly and time slows to a pastoral rhythm. Livarot is not for the faint-hearted—it is for those who embrace bold, unapologetic cheese with reverence.
Pairings and Suggestions
This robust cheese shines best when thoughtfully paired:
- Crisp Normandy apple cider or Pinot Noir to cut through the richness
- Roasted root vegetables with herbs for an earthy, grounding side
- Grainy mustards or fig chutney to highlight its tangy depths
- When the pate is ripe, this Normandy cheese is nearly runny, and very spreadable, making it the perfect companion for crusty bread.
- Enjoy it with fruit and nuts, paired with a hearty red wine, or a hard cider.
- Wrap the Livarot in phyllo dough, and gently fry it in butter to make a Croustillants de Livarot.
- Serve it as an appetizer with some crackers; it’ll be a hit!
- For a decadent meal, melt slices of Livarot over duck confit, or tuck it into a warm baguette with caramelized onions and arugula for a rustic sandwich that sings of the French countryside.
The Monk’s Belt Legacy
Livarot is often referred to as “The Colonel” due to the five bands of dried reed that wrap around its circumference—an homage to Napoleonic military stripes. But its roots run even deeper, tracing back to Norman monks in the Middle Ages who developed these washed-rind cheeses in abbey cellars. Père Gautier continues this monastic tradition with care, aging each wheel to coax out its intense aroma and complex umami bite. In every stripe, every pungent note, there is a story of discipline, patience, and the enduring love affair between Normandy and its cheese.
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Storage Instructions
Keep refrigerated at 4°C or lower. Wrap in wax paper or breathable cheese paper, not plastic, to allow the rind to breathe. Consume within 7 days of opening for optimal flavor.
