Forsyth Location cheese feature: Alsatian - Munster cheese

Haxaire Petit Munster
Made on both sides of the Vosges mountains, and formerly named "Munster" on the Alsace side and "Gerome" on the Lorraine side, they were united in 1978 under AOC denomination (protected name status). The origin of this cheese can be traced back to the Middle Ages.
The milk for production of Munster Gerome comes from the Vosgiennes cows, a breed that was imported from Scandanavia in the 18th century and is known for the high protein content of their milk. Cheeses come in both pasteurized or raw versions and production can be fermier, cooperative, or industriel.
AOC regulations dictate that all cheeses must be matured within a designated area and that the minimum time for aging is three weeks before release, although ten weeks is more normal. (In the case of Petit Munster, the minimum time is two weeks.)

Rind and aroma are the keys to Munster's maturity. Young cheeses have a pale rind that is pinkish-white in color, soft, but relatively dry and not overly pungent. As the cheeses age and receive their regular brine washes, the rind is transformed to a rich, red-orange color with a distinctly sticky (but not slimy) surface and an assertive, pungent smell that (love it or loathe it) cannot be ignored.

When young, the texture of a ripe Munster Gerome is pale cream in color, firm (yet smooth) and slightly brittle. With age, the bacterial activity of the rind transforms the texture into a luscious, soft, meltingly unctuous paste and the color darkens slightly.

Flavors of Munster Gerome are very rich, smooth and slightly tangy on the finish. Cheeses pair very well with crisp white Alsacian whites or dessert wines. - Culture Magazine

Pair Munster with this Alsatian Gewurtzraminer

2010 Domaine Ehrhart Gewuztraminer Grand Cru Hengst..$19.99
We are by far the Lowest price in the Country on Wine-Searcher
Compare to $33 Wine Spectator Suggested Retail price.
Lightly floral, with apple blossom and honeysuckle notes, this is open-knit, offering fresh flavors of apricot, lychee, kumquat, spice and herb. Hints of smoke and Grand Marnier liqueur linger on the finish. Drink now through 2020. 100 cases imported.
Rated 90/100 The Wine Spectator