cheese aging
Wheel storage time
Cheese aging, also called affinage, is the controlled process of storing cheese under specific temperature and humidity conditions to develop its flavor, texture, and aroma.
Fresh cheeses may age for just days, while hard varieties like Parmesan mature for years.
During aging, enzymes break down proteins and fats, creating complex flavors that range from sharp and nutty to pungent.
This cheddar has been aging for eighteen months.
- cheddarFirm aged English cheese
- air circulationMovement of atmosphere indoors
- humidity controlManaging air's water content
- moldsHollow shaping containers
- lipolysisMetabolic fat decomposition
caves · proteolysis · gouda · hygrometers · parmesan · temperature regulation · microbial cultures · brining · enzymes · waxing · yeasts · piercing · raw milk · flipping · pH balance · wedge · musty · washed
- dairymilk, butter, cream, yogurt, sour cream
- slow processesevolution, continental drift, erosion, weathering, sedimentation
- dairyingdairy farms, dairy cows, milk production, dairy farming, creameries
- food craftsbread making, sausage making, pickling, fermenting, curing
- cheeseAmerican, asiago, brie, cheddar, gouda
- cheese festivalfondue, raclette, brie, cheddar, cheesemakers
cheese agingfresh cheese
Curds before maturation
fresh mozzarella · ricotta · cottage cheese · queso fresco · cream cheese