Clemään

Clemään is a term that refers to a specific type of artisanal cheese originating from the French Alps. It is typically made from raw, unpasteurized cow's milk sourced from local herds. The cheese is characterized by its firm, slightly crumbly texture and a distinctive nutty, earthy flavor profile with subtle hints of caramel. The rind of clemään is usually a rustic orange-brown color, often developing a natural mold during the aging process.

The production of clemään follows traditional methods passed down through generations of cheesemakers in the region. The milk is curdled using rennet, and the curds are then cut, heated, and pressed before being placed in molds. The cheese is aged for a minimum of several months, sometimes up to a year, in cool, humid cellars. This extended aging period is crucial for developing its complex flavors and robust aroma. Clemään is often enjoyed on its own, served with crusty bread, or incorporated into regional dishes like gratins and fondues. Its unique taste and texture make it a prized ingredient in French cuisine.