Cowgirl Creamery’s Mt Tam is more than just cheese; it’s an experience. A triple-cream, organic beauty hailing from Point Reyes Station, California, Mt Tam boasts a rich, buttery flavor and a melt-in-your-mouth texture that has captivated cheese lovers for years. But simply buying a wheel of Mt Tam is only the beginning. To truly appreciate its nuances and unlock its full potential, you need to know how to eat it. This guide will walk you through everything from selecting the perfect wheel to pairing it with complementary flavors, ensuring a truly unforgettable culinary adventure.
Understanding Mt Tam: A Cheesemaker’s Masterpiece
Before we dive into the art of eating Mt Tam, let’s appreciate what makes this cheese so special. Understanding its characteristics will enhance your enjoyment.
The Art of Triple-Cream Cheese
Mt Tam is classified as a triple-cream cheese. This means it has a butterfat content of at least 75% in its dry matter. This high butterfat content is what gives Mt Tam its decadent richness, smooth texture, and luxurious mouthfeel. The extra cream added during the cheesemaking process results in a cheese that is incredibly indulgent and satisfying.
Tasting Notes: A Symphony of Flavors
The flavor profile of Mt Tam is complex and nuanced, evolving as the cheese ripens. Expect to find notes of:
- Butter: The most prominent flavor, thanks to the high butterfat content.
- Crème Fraîche: A tangy, slightly acidic note that balances the richness.
- Mushroom: An earthy undertone that adds depth and complexity.
- Grass: A subtle grassy flavor, reflecting the pastures where the cows graze.
- Nuts: Some wheels may exhibit a hint of nutty flavor.
The intensity of these flavors will vary depending on the age of the cheese. Younger wheels will be milder and creamier, while more mature wheels will have a stronger, more pronounced flavor.
The Importance of Organic Milk
Cowgirl Creamery uses only organic milk from Straus Family Creamery, a local dairy farm committed to sustainable practices. This dedication to quality ingredients is evident in the superior taste and texture of Mt Tam. The organic milk contributes to the cheese’s clean, pure flavor and its smooth, creamy texture. Knowing that you’re enjoying a cheese made with ethically sourced ingredients adds another layer of appreciation.
Selecting the Perfect Wheel: A Cheesemonger’s Guide
Choosing the right wheel of Mt Tam is crucial to maximizing your enjoyment. Here’s what to look for:
Visual Inspection: Judging by Appearance
- Rind: The rind should be bloomy and white, with a slightly wrinkled appearance. A slight browning or speckling is normal and indicates maturation. Avoid wheels with a slimy or overly moldy rind.
- Shape: The wheel should be round and evenly shaped.
- Size: Mt Tam is available in various sizes. Choose a size that you can consume within a few days to ensure optimal freshness.
- Interior: If possible, peek at the interior of the cheese. It should be creamy and ivory-colored, with a smooth, consistent texture.
The Feel Test: Assessing Texture
Gently press on the surface of the cheese. It should feel soft and yielding, but not overly runny. A slight give indicates that the cheese is ripe and ready to eat. An overly firm wheel may be underripe, while an overly soft wheel may be overripe.
Ask the Cheesemonger: Your Best Resource
Don’t hesitate to ask your cheesemonger for advice. They can provide valuable insights into the age and flavor profile of the cheese and help you select the perfect wheel for your taste. They can also offer recommendations for pairings and serving suggestions. A good cheesemonger is a wealth of knowledge and can enhance your cheese-buying experience.
Serving Suggestions: Preparing for the Perfect Bite
How you serve Mt Tam can significantly impact your enjoyment.
Temperature Matters: The Ideal Serving Temperature
Always serve Mt Tam at room temperature. Remove it from the refrigerator at least 30 minutes before serving to allow the flavors to fully develop. Cold cheese has muted flavors and a less appealing texture. Bringing it to room temperature allows the butterfat to soften, releasing its aroma and enhancing its creamy mouthfeel.
Presentation: A Feast for the Eyes
Arrange the Mt Tam on a cheese board with complementary accompaniments. Consider adding fresh fruit, nuts, crackers, and a small knife for serving. The visual appeal of the presentation enhances the overall experience.
Cutting Techniques: Maximizing Surface Area
- Wedges: For a more traditional presentation, cut the wheel into wedges.
- Scoops: For a more informal presentation, scoop out portions of the cheese with a spoon or small knife. This allows for a more rustic and tactile experience.
- Spreading: Mt Tam is easily spreadable, making it ideal for topping crackers or bread.
Pairing Perfection: Complementary Flavors
Mt Tam pairs well with a wide variety of flavors. Experiment to find your favorites.
Fruits: Sweet and Tangy Delights
- Apples: Crisp, tart apples like Granny Smith or Honeycrisp provide a refreshing contrast to the richness of the cheese.
- Pears: Ripe pears, such as Bartlett or Bosc, offer a subtle sweetness and a smooth texture that complements the cheese beautifully.
- Figs: Fresh or dried figs add a touch of sweetness and a slightly chewy texture that pairs perfectly with the creamy cheese.
- Grapes: Red or green grapes provide a juicy sweetness and a refreshing burst of flavor.
- Berries: Strawberries, raspberries, and blueberries add a touch of tartness and a vibrant pop of color.
Nuts: Adding Texture and Depth
- Walnuts: Toasted walnuts offer a crunchy texture and a slightly bitter flavor that balances the richness of the cheese.
- Pecans: Pecans provide a buttery sweetness and a satisfying crunch.
- Almonds: Marcona almonds offer a delicate sweetness and a subtle nutty flavor.
- Hazelnuts: Toasted hazelnuts provide a rich, earthy flavor that complements the cheese beautifully.
Crackers and Bread: The Perfect Vehicle
- Baguette: A crusty baguette provides a neutral base that allows the flavors of the cheese to shine.
- Fig and Olive Crackers: These crackers add a touch of sweetness and saltiness that enhances the overall flavor profile.
- Water Crackers: Simple water crackers are a classic choice that won’t overpower the cheese.
- Whole Wheat Crackers: Whole wheat crackers add a nutty flavor and a satisfying crunch.
Other Accompaniments: Expanding the Culinary Landscape
- Honey: A drizzle of honey adds a touch of sweetness and complements the creamy texture of the cheese.
- Jams and Preserves: Fig jam, quince paste, or apricot preserves provide a burst of flavor and a sticky-sweet texture.
- Mustard: A grainy mustard adds a tangy kick that cuts through the richness of the cheese.
- Olives: Green or black olives add a salty and briny flavor that complements the creamy cheese.
- Prosciutto: Thinly sliced prosciutto adds a salty and savory element that balances the richness of the cheese.
Beverage Pairings: The Perfect Sip
- Sparkling Wine: Champagne or Prosecco provides a celebratory touch and the bubbles cleanse the palate between bites.
- White Wine: A crisp white wine like Sauvignon Blanc or Pinot Grigio complements the creamy texture of the cheese.
- Red Wine: A light-bodied red wine like Pinot Noir or Beaujolais can also pair well with Mt Tam.
- Beer: A Belgian-style ale or a saison can offer a complementary flavor profile.
- Cider: A dry cider provides a refreshing and slightly tart pairing.
Beyond the Cheese Board: Creative Culinary Applications
While Mt Tam is delicious on its own, it can also be incorporated into a variety of dishes.
Melting Magic: Grilled Cheese and Beyond
Mt Tam melts beautifully, making it an excellent choice for grilled cheese sandwiches, omelets, and gratins. Its creamy texture and rich flavor add a luxurious touch to any dish.
Salad Sensation: Adding Creaminess and Depth
Crumble Mt Tam over a salad for a creamy and flavorful addition. It pairs well with leafy greens, roasted vegetables, and vinaigrette dressings.
Pasta Perfection: A Decadent Sauce
Stir Mt Tam into warm pasta for a simple and elegant sauce. Add a touch of olive oil, garlic, and herbs for a complete meal.
Dessert Delight: A Sweet and Savory Treat
Mt Tam can even be used in desserts. Try pairing it with fruit and honey for a simple and elegant dessert, or use it as a filling for tarts or pastries.
Storage Secrets: Preserving Freshness
Proper storage is essential to maintaining the quality of your Mt Tam.
Wrapping Wisdom: Maintaining Moisture
Wrap the cheese tightly in parchment paper or cheese paper, then store it in a resealable container in the refrigerator. This will help prevent it from drying out and absorbing odors.
Refrigerator Reality: The Ideal Temperature
Store the cheese in the warmest part of your refrigerator, typically the vegetable crisper drawer. This will help prevent it from becoming too cold and hard.
Shelf Life: Enjoying at Its Peak
Mt Tam is best consumed within a few days of purchase. As it ages, the flavor will become stronger and the texture may become softer.
Troubleshooting: Common Issues and Solutions
Even with the best intentions, you may encounter some challenges when storing or serving Mt Tam.
Hardening: Rehydrating the Cheese
If the cheese becomes hard, wrap it in a damp paper towel and place it in a resealable container in the refrigerator for a few hours. This will help rehydrate the cheese and restore its creamy texture.
Mold Growth: Distinguishing Good from Bad
A small amount of surface mold is normal and can be easily removed. However, if the mold is excessive or has a strange color or odor, it’s best to discard the cheese.
Overripening: Salvaging the Cheese
If the cheese becomes overly ripe and runny, it can still be used in cooking. Melt it into a sauce or use it as a filling for omelets or quiches.
By following these tips and suggestions, you can unlock the full potential of Cowgirl Creamery Mt Tam and enjoy a truly unforgettable culinary experience. From selecting the perfect wheel to pairing it with complementary flavors, every step is an opportunity to enhance your appreciation for this iconic cheese. So go ahead, indulge in the creamy, buttery goodness of Mt Tam and discover why it’s a favorite among cheese lovers worldwide.
What is Cowgirl Creamery Mt Tam cheese and what makes it special?
Cowgirl Creamery Mt Tam is a signature triple-cream cheese produced by Cowgirl Creamery in Point Reyes Station, California. It’s named after Mount Tamalpais, a prominent peak in Marin County. This cheese is known for its exceptionally rich and buttery flavor, along with a smooth, dense texture that melts beautifully on the tongue. Its creamy interior is complemented by a delicate, bloomy rind.
What sets Mt Tam apart is its high butterfat content due to the addition of cream to the cow’s milk during production. This creates an unparalleled luxuriousness. The cheese is aged for several weeks, allowing the bloomy rind to develop and contribute a subtle earthy and mushroomy flavor to the overall profile. The combination of these factors results in a cheese experience that is both decadent and nuanced, highly prized by cheese connoisseurs.
How should I store Cowgirl Creamery Mt Tam to maintain its quality?
Proper storage is crucial for preserving the flavor and texture of Mt Tam. Upon purchasing, wrap the cheese loosely in cheese paper or parchment paper. Then, place it in a resealable container or bag, but don’t seal it completely airtight. A little air circulation helps prevent the cheese from becoming overly moist and developing unwanted ammonia flavors.
Store the wrapped cheese in the warmest part of your refrigerator, typically in a vegetable drawer or on a lower shelf. Avoid placing it near strong-smelling foods as it can absorb their odors. Consume the cheese within 1-2 weeks of purchase for the best quality. Letting it sit at room temperature for about 30 minutes before serving will enhance its flavors and texture.
What are the best ways to serve and enjoy Cowgirl Creamery Mt Tam?
Mt Tam is incredibly versatile and can be enjoyed in various ways. For a simple yet elegant presentation, serve it whole on a cheese board with a cheese knife. Allow guests to cut their own portions, encouraging interaction and conversation. Consider offering a selection of crusty bread, crackers, or fruit slices to complement the cheese.
Beyond the cheese board, Mt Tam can be incorporated into various dishes. Its creamy texture makes it a delicious addition to sandwiches, salads, and pizzas. It can also be melted into sauces, gratins, or even used as a filling for pasta. Pair it with ingredients that offer contrasting flavors and textures, such as tart fruits, toasted nuts, or spicy peppers, to create a balanced and memorable culinary experience.
What wines pair well with Cowgirl Creamery Mt Tam?
The richness of Mt Tam calls for wines that can balance its creamy texture and buttery flavor. Crisp, dry white wines with high acidity are excellent choices. Consider a bright Sauvignon Blanc, a citrusy Pinot Grigio, or a mineral-driven Chablis.
Alternatively, you could opt for a sparkling wine like Champagne or a dry Prosecco. The bubbles will cut through the cheese’s richness and cleanse the palate. For those who prefer red wine, a light-bodied, fruit-forward Pinot Noir or a Beaujolais can work well. Avoid pairing Mt Tam with heavily oaked or tannic red wines, as they can clash with its delicate flavors.
Can Cowgirl Creamery Mt Tam be frozen?
While freezing Mt Tam is technically possible, it’s generally not recommended. Freezing can significantly alter the cheese’s texture, causing it to become crumbly and less creamy upon thawing. The high moisture content in the cheese can also lead to ice crystal formation, further affecting its quality.
If you must freeze Mt Tam, wrap it tightly in several layers of plastic wrap, followed by a layer of aluminum foil. Thaw it slowly in the refrigerator overnight before using. Be aware that the texture may not be the same as fresh cheese, and it’s best used in cooked applications rather than served on its own. It is highly preferable to purchase only what you can consume within a week or two to enjoy it at its best.
Are there any substitutes for Cowgirl Creamery Mt Tam if I can’t find it?
While nothing perfectly replicates the unique flavor and texture of Mt Tam, there are several similar triple-cream cheeses that can serve as good substitutes. Brillat-Savarin is a French triple-cream cheese with a similar richness and buttery flavor profile. Delice de Bourgogne is another excellent option known for its smooth, creamy texture and slightly tangy taste.
If you are unable to find a triple-cream cheese, a good alternative is a well-aged Brie or Camembert. These cheeses offer a similar soft-ripened experience, although they may not be quite as rich as Mt Tam. Look for options that are ripe and have a slightly runny texture to maximize their creaminess. Remember to adjust your pairings accordingly to suit the flavor profile of the substitute cheese you choose.
How does the terroir of Point Reyes contribute to the flavor of Mt Tam?
The terroir of Point Reyes plays a significant role in shaping the flavor of Mt Tam. The cool, coastal climate and lush pastures provide ideal conditions for dairy farming. The cows that produce the milk for Mt Tam graze on grass rich in minerals and nutrients, which directly impacts the quality and flavor of the milk. This translates into a cheese with a distinctive character that reflects its origin.
The salt-laden air from the Pacific Ocean also influences the flavor of the cheese, imparting a subtle briny note. Furthermore, the artisan cheesemaking practices employed by Cowgirl Creamery, combined with the unique microflora present in the aging environment, contribute to the complex and nuanced flavor profile of Mt Tam. This intricate interplay between environment and craftsmanship is what makes this cheese so special and distinctive.