Mold is something that we typically try to avoid. On the foods we eat, in our homes, and basically in any context, you can imagine, mold is thought of as a negative thing. There is one exception to the rule: cheese! Certain cheeses depend on the mold to give the cheese it’s distinct flavor and texture. A few most commonly loved moldy cheeses include: 

Brie 

Brie is a soft cheese that’s named after its French area of origin. This cheese features a pale white color with a slight tint of grey showing beneath the surface of the rind. The flavor of brie can change greatly depending on where and how it was made, but as long as the brie hasn’t become runny or overripe, it should be fine to enjoy! 

Gorgonzola 

This cheese is an Italian cheese that begins with unskimmed cows’ milk. Gorgonzola can vary in texture from buttery to crumbly, but either way, the flavor is sure to be salty and bold. This cheese is white with greenish-blue veins throughout the cheese. These veins are what give gorgonzola the bold and unique flavor it’s known for. 

Camembert 

Camembert is a type of cheese that’s commonly compared to brie. Also developed in France during the 1800s, the camembert has a more moist and soft consistency. This creamy soft cheese is traditionally enjoyed with fruit, crackers, or all alone. 

Stilton 

Stilton cheese comes in either a blue or white form. Stilton cheese is semi-soft but becomes much creamier overtime. To be considered a blue stilton cheese, it can only be made in one of three counties in England! This also makes it a little harder to find and more greatly appreciated by soft cheese lovers everywhere. 

Danish Blue Cheese 

This cheese is strong in texture thanks to the deep blue veining throughout the otherwise white block of cheese. A moist rind surrounds the cheese, but that rind is edible. With a fat content of 25 to 30%, it’s no wonder this semi-soft cheese is so creamy and easy to enjoy! 

Spend this year’s national mold cheese day by sharing your love and knowledge of moldy cheeses with your friends and family! Some people steer away from moldy cheeses because they assume mold is a bad thing, but if they try it, they’ll probably like it. Look up the best crackers or wines to pair with your moldy cheese of choice to take the experience to the next level.