Related Resources • Preparing a Cheese Board • Review of the Cheese Lover's Cookbook and Guide

Elsewhere on the Web • Saint Nectaire Cheese

Country and Region of Origin: Auvergne, France

Type of Cheese: A cow's milk cheese. It is cured on a bed of straw for eight weeks. The cheese has a distinctive pastoral aroma from the curing process. The interior is straw colored and soft.

Texture: Semi-soft

Rind: A leathery, natural, pinkish rind, covered with a pale gray mold.

Tasting Notes: This mellow cheese has a slightly nutty flavor and grassy aroma.

Wine Pairing: Pair with Beaujolais.

Serving Suggestions: This cheese is best served with crackers, fruit, and a hearty French bread.