Technique · Cheese / Maturity

Affinage

Affinage · Cheese ageing / maturing

The ageing and maturing process that develops a cheese's texture, aroma and flavour.

Affinage is the ageing or maturing process that turns fresh cheese into something more complex. It affects texture, rind, smell, strength and when the cheese is ready to eat. In a fromagerie, affinage is practical language: it helps explain whether a cheese is young, creamy, dry, runny, strong or ready for tonight.