You've just returned from the grocery store, a specialty cheese shop, or perhaps your latest Wedgely box has arrived! You're holding a precious wedge (or wheel!) of deliciousness, and now the critical question arises: how do you keep this cheesy treasure at its best? As a fromager with over 12 years of experience, I can tell you that proper cheese storage is just as important as selecting the right cheese in the first place.

Many common storage mistakes can quickly turn your gourmet delight into a dried-out disappointment or, worse, a moldy tragedy. Fear not! I'm here to share the secrets to keeping your cheese fresh, flavorful, and ready for its moment in the spotlight.

Let It Breathe (But Not Too Much!)

The biggest misconception about storing cheese is that it should be wrapped tightly in plastic wrap. While plastic film is great for preventing smells from escaping or entering, it's a cheese's worst enemy for long-term storage. Plastic traps moisture and doesn't allow the cheese to breathe, creating a humid environment that encourages the growth of unwanted molds and can give the cheese an "off" flavor.

The Best Way to Wrap Your Cheese

Think of cheese as a living thing – it needs a little airflow!

1. Cheese Paper is Your Best Friend: This specialized paper is designed with a breathable layer that allows the cheese to respire while preventing it from drying out. If you have it, use it! Many good cheese shops will wrap your cheese in it.

2. Parchment Paper or Wax Paper (Excellent Alternatives): If you don't have cheese paper, unbleached parchment paper or wax paper are fantastic substitutes. They allow for some airflow.

3. A Loose Second Layer (Optional but Recommended): After wrapping your cheese in cheese paper or parchment, you can loosely wrap it in plastic wrap, or even place it in a resealable plastic bag without sealing it tightly. This provides an extra barrier against drying out but still allows for a tiny bit of air exchange.

The Method:

• Wrap your cheese firmly but not suffocatingly.

• For wedges, wrap each cut side first, then the rind.

• For soft cheeses, wrap the entire piece.

• Label your wrapped cheese with the type and date you purchased or opened it.

Where to Store Your Cheese: The Ideal Environment

The refrigerator is your cheese's temporary home, but not all spots are created equal.

• The Vegetable Drawer (The Cheese Oasis): This is often the most humid part of your fridge, making it ideal for cheese. The consistent, slightly warmer temperature than the main shelves also helps.

• Avoid the Door: The temperature fluctuates most here due to frequent opening, which is bad for cheese.

• Away from Strong Odors: Cheese can absorb strong smells from other foods (like onions or garlic). Keep it separate or ensure it's well-wrapped.

Specific Cheese Types & Their Needs:

• Soft & Fresh Cheeses (Brie, Camembert, Fresh Goat Cheese, Mozzarella): These have a higher moisture content and a shorter shelf life once opened. They should be consumed within 1-2 weeks. Store them as described above.

• Semi-Hard & Hard Cheeses (Cheddar, Gruyère, Parmesan, Gouda): These will last longer, typically 3-4 weeks (and even longer for very hard, aged cheeses like Parmesan). Follow the same wrapping rules. If mold appears on a hard cheese, you can usually just cut it off (about an inch around the mold) and enjoy the rest.

• Blue Cheeses: These also need to breathe but can be quite pungent. Store them wrapped as usual, perhaps in a separate airtight container to prevent their aroma from permeating other foods. Consume within 2-3 weeks.

The Golden Rule Revisited: Bring it to Room Temperature!

No matter how perfectly you've stored your cheese, remember that serving it straight from the fridge will dull its flavor and alter its texture. Always allow your cheese to warm up to room temperature (30-60 minutes, depending on the cheese type) before enjoying it. This lets its complex aromas and creamy textures truly shine.

Extend Your Cheese Journey with Wedgely

Mastering cheese storage ensures every piece you buy is a delightful experience. And for the ultimate in fresh, expertly-selected cheeses, ready for perfect storage and enjoyment, remember that Wedgely delivers a curated selection right to your door. Our fromager-selected cheeses are chosen for their quality and potential to bring you maximum joy.

What are your go-to cheese storage hacks? Share your tips in the comments below!

Okay, fellow cheese lovers! Grab a wedge, because today we're diving deep into the undisputed monarch of the cheese world: Parmigiano Reggiano. If you've ever grated it over pasta, shaved it onto a salad, or simply nibbled a crystalline shard, you know this isn't just any cheese. This is a culinary icon, a testament to centuries of tradition, and truly, the King of Cheeses.

At Wedgely.co, we're all about appreciating the story behind every bite, and few stories are as rich and compelling as that of Parmigiano Reggiano.

Forget everything you think you know about "Parmesan." True Parmigiano Reggiano DOP (or PDO, Protected Designation of Origin) is a marvel from specific provinces in Italy: Parma, Reggio Emilia, Modena, and parts of Bologna and Mantua. This isn't just a geographical boundary; it's a guarantee. A guarantee that every wheel, from its inception to its final stamp, adheres to a meticulous, unchanging process passed down through generations.

What makes it so special? Let's break it down:

1. A Legacy of Craftsmanship: The production process hasn't changed much in 900 years. It starts with raw, unpasteurized milk from cows fed only on local forage. No silage, no funny business. This gives the milk its unique microbial flora, crucial for the cheese's character.

2. The Aging Process: This is where the magic truly happens. After being formed into massive, 80-pound wheels, the cheeses are aged for a minimum of 12 months, though many are aged for 24, 36, or even 48 months. During this time, the texture transforms from pliable to granular, and the flavor deepens exponentially. Those little white crystals you find? Those are tyrosine, amino acids that are a hallmark of proper aging and intense flavor.

3. A Symphony of Flavor: Young Parmigiano Reggiano (12-18 months) offers notes of fresh milk, grass, and a slightly sweet finish. As it matures to 24-36 months, you'll uncover layers of toasted nuts, savory broth, pineapple, and that incredible umami richness. Older still, and it becomes even more pungent and complex, a true explosion of flavor that lingers beautifully.

Beyond the Grater: How to Experience True Parmigiano Reggiano

While it's indispensable for pasta, limiting Parmigiano Reggiano to just grating would be a culinary crime!

• As a Table Cheese: Break off rough shards (never neatly slice!) and enjoy it on its own. It's a fantastic snack cheese that needs no accompaniment.

• Pairing Perfection: It's incredibly versatile. Drizzle with aged balsamic vinegar (another PDO gem from Modena!). Serve with figs, pears, or walnuts. Pair with cured meats like prosciutto di Parma.

• Wine Wisdom: For younger Parmigiano, a crisp Lambrusco or a dry sparkling wine is delightful. For the more aged versions, a robust Sangiovese, Chianti, or a deep Amarone will sing. Even a good dry sherry can be an unexpected, delicious pairing.

• In Cooking: Of course, it melts beautifully into sauces, adds depth to risottos, and forms the irresistible crust on gratins. But try it in unexpected ways – shaved over roasted vegetables, or even baked into shortbread cookies for a savory twist!

Why Choose Authentic Parmigiano Reggiano?

The market is flooded with imitations. When you see "Parmesan" that isn't explicitly "Parmigiano Reggiano," you're likely getting a pale imitation that lacks the complexity, nutrition, and stringent quality controls of the authentic product. True Parmigiano Reggiano is lactose-free (due to the aging process) and rich in calcium and protein – a genuinely healthy gourmet cheese.

At Wedgely.co, we believe in the power of authenticity and the unparalleled quality of tradition. Bringing a wedge of true Parmigiano Reggiano DOP into your home isn't just buying cheese; it's experiencing a piece of history, a labor of love, and one of the world's most magnificent aged cheeses.

So, next time you're looking for an ingredient that truly elevates a dish, or simply a moment of pure culinary pleasure, reach for the King. You won't be disappointed.

What's your favorite way to enjoy Parmigiano Reggiano? Share your tips in the comments below!

At Wedgely, we're passionate about bringing the finest gourmet cheese experiences right to your doorstep. While Europe has long held the crown for artisan cheesemaking, a quiet revolution has been simmering across the United States. American craft cheesemakers are now producing truly world-class specialty cheeses, rivaling their international counterparts in complexity, flavor, and innovation. This month, our curated cheese box, "The American Wedge," is a testament to this incredible talent, featuring three extraordinary American artisan cheeses that promise to elevate your palate.

Get ready to explore the unique terroir and remarkable skill behind these small-batch selections. Let's dive into what makes each cheese a star in its own right, complete with expert pairing suggestions for your next cheese board or tasting party!

Double Dutch: A Sweet and Tangy US Original

Our first highlight in "The American Wedge" is Double Dutch, a unique, semi-hard Gouda-style cheese meticulously crafted in the United States. Often made by cheesemakers with deep roots in Dutch tradition, this striking cheese features a compelling blend of cow's milk and goat's milk. The cow's milk portion contributes a creamy, subtly nutty richness, while the goat's milk adds a delightful tang and earthy undertone. Its smooth, dense texture and harmonious sweet and savory notes make it a truly captivating and approachable gourmet cheese, showcasing American artisan cheesemaking at its best.

Fun Fact: Though inspired by Dutch traditions, many American versions of "Double Dutch" cheeses uniquely feature an eye-catching layer of grapevine ash running through their center, a nod to both Old World techniques and New World innovation in farmstead cheese production!

Pairing Suggestions:

• Beverages: This versatile cheese pairs beautifully with a crisp Belgian Tripel, dry cider, a refreshing Sauvignon Blanc, or a light-bodied Pinot Noir.
• Accompaniments: Enhance its flavors with a drizzle of local honey, sweet fig jam, crisp green apples, crunchy pistachios, or a slice of crusty sourdough bread. Perfect for your artisan cheese board!

Sarvecchio Parmesan: Wisconsin's Aged Masterpiece

Next up, we celebrate an true American original: Sarvecchio Parmesan. This exceptional hard cheese, hailing from Wisconsin, is aged for a minimum of 20 months to develop its distinctive, complex character. Sarvecchio boasts a rich, nutty flavor with savory notes of caramel and a slightly sharp finish. Its signature crumbly texture, punctuated by delicate protein crystals, offers a delightful chew. Sarvecchio is an incredibly versatile specialty cheese, perfect for grating over pasta, adding depth to fresh salads, or simply enjoying on its own as a delicious snack.

Fun Fact: While inspired by Italian Parmigiano-Reggiano, Sarvecchio is a proprietary name unique to Wisconsin, meaning you won't find this exact aged cheese anywhere else in the world! It's a genuine testament to American cheese excellence.

Pairing Suggestions:

• Beverages: Experience a classic match with Chianti Classico, a bold Barolo, a robust Cabernet Sauvignon, or a nutty amber ale. These cheese and wine pairings are truly exceptional.
• Accompaniments: Drizzle with balsamic glaze, serve alongside savory prosciutto, sweet dried apricots, toasted walnuts, or crusty Italian bread for an authentic Italian-American cheese experience.

Goat Rodeo Wild Rosemary: Fresh & Aromatic from Pennsylvania

Completing this month's premium cheese selection is Goat Rodeo Wild Rosemary, a vibrant, fresh artisanal goat cheese infused with aromatic rosemary, straight from the rolling hills of Western Pennsylvania. Its creamy, spreadable texture gives way to a bright, tangy flavor that is elegantly balanced by the fragrant, herbal notes of the rosemary. This fresh cheese is a delightful expression of its unique terroir, offering a taste of the farm with every delightful bite.

Fun Fact: Goat Rodeo Farm is located just outside of Pittsburgh, Pennsylvania, and their exceptional cheeses are made with milk from their own happy herd of Alpine, Saanen, and Nubian goats, ensuring unparalleled freshness and quality from farm to table!

Pairing Suggestions:

• Beverages: Pair this creamy goat cheese with a crisp Sauvignon Blanc, a dry Rosé, a light-bodied Pinot Grigio, or even a refreshing gin and tonic.
• Accompaniments: Serve on toasted baguette slices, alongside fresh berries (especially blueberries or raspberries), briny olives, sweet roasted red peppers, or simply with a delicate drizzle of extra virgin olive oil. It's a fantastic addition to any gourmet cheese board.

Experience The American Wedge Yourself!

We hope this glimpse into "The American Wedge" has inspired you to explore the incredible world of American artisan cheese. These award-winning cheeses represent just a fraction of the talent blossoming across our nation's creameries. Each monthly cheese box from Wedgely.co is designed to bring you unparalleled flavor discoveries and highlight the dedication of these incredible cheesemakers.

Don't miss out on these exclusive selections! Explore our curated cheese boxes and bring the best of American craft cheese to your home.

Summer is here, and with it comes the irresistible urge to pack a basket, spread a blanket, and enjoy a meal al fresco! While sandwiches and salads are picnic classics, we at Wedgely believe the ultimate outdoor feast is a vibrant, easy-to-transport cheese board. Imagine a spread of delectable cheeses, fresh fruits, and crunchy accompaniments, all enjoyed under the warm sun.

But how do you ensure your beautiful cheese board survives the summer heat and arrives at your picnic spot in peak condition? We've got you covered!

Picking Your Picnic-Perfect Cheeses

The key to a successful summer cheese board lies in selecting cheeses that can handle a bit of warmth. While we adore soft, oozy cheeses, they might not be your best bet for a long journey in the sun. Focus on these champions:

Firm & Aged Cheeses: These are your superstars! Think aged Cheddar, firm Goudas, or a beautiful Parmesan. Their lower moisture content means they hold their shape and flavor better in the heat. They also develop incredible complexity as they warm slightly.

Semi-Hard & Alpine-Style: Varieties like Comté, Gruyère, or even a well-aged Manchego are excellent choices. They're robust enough to travel and offer nutty, savory notes that pair wonderfully with summer produce.

Harder Goat & Sheep Cheeses: Beyond Manchego, consider a firm Pecorino or an aged Chèvre. These often have a bright tang that's incredibly refreshing on a warm day.

Smoked Cheeses (Bonus!): The smoking process helps preserve the cheese, and the smoky notes can be a delightful addition to an outdoor setting.

Pro Tip: Pack cheeses that are still in their original wax paper or wrapped tightly in parchment paper, then placed in a sealed, insulated bag with ice packs. Let them come to temperature slowly at your picnic spot.

Summer-Ready Accompaniments

Now for the supporting cast! When building your summer picnic board, think fresh, vibrant, and portable.

Seasonal Fruits: Berries (strawberries, blueberries, raspberries), cherries, sliced peaches, nectarines, and melon wedges are juicy, sweet, and perfectly complement a variety of cheeses.

Crisp Vegetables: Sliced cucumbers, bell peppers, cherry tomatoes, and snap peas add crunch and a refreshing element.

Pickled Delights: Cornichons, pickled onions, or even pickled green beans provide a tangy counterpoint that cuts through the richness of cheese.

Nuts & Dried Fruits: Almonds, walnuts, pistachios, dried apricots, and figs are easy to transport and add textural variety and concentrated sweetness.

Crackers & Bread: Choose sturdy crackers or thinly sliced baguette that won't crumble easily. Consider some hearty multigrain crackers for extra texture.

Spreads (Optional, but delightful!): A small jar of fig jam, honey (in a spill-proof container!), or a savory chutney can add a lovely touch.

Assembling Your Outdoor Masterpiece

1. Prep Ahead: Slice firmer cheeses beforehand to make serving easier. Keep soft items like berries whole until just before serving.
2. The Right Board/Container: A lightweight wooden board or a sturdy, flat container with a lid works best. Consider a bento-style box for separate compartments.
3. Layering is Key: Start with your harder cheeses, then arrange softer elements around them. Fill in gaps with nuts, fruits, and crackers.
4. Don't Forget the Essentials: Pack a small, sharp cheese knife (or two!), small plates, napkins, and a mini trash bag.

A summer picnic cheese board is more than just food; it's an invitation to relax, enjoy the outdoors, and savor simple pleasures. It’s an effortless way to bring gourmet flair to any park, beach, or backyard gathering.

Ready to create your perfect picnic cheese experience? Explore Wedgely's curated selections, many of which feature cheeses perfect for your next outdoor adventure. We take the guesswork out of gourmet, so you can focus on sunshine and smiles!