Sodiaal is one of the leading dairy cooperatives in France with products ranging from P.D.O. cheeses to Brittany butter, UHT milk and cream.
Sodiaal has chosen its French Gruyère to inspire competitors this year.
French Gruyère
Not to be confused with Swiss Gruyère, this one is unapologetically French, originating from the prairies of Savoie & Franche-Comté.
A true family affair, Gruyère was born from the solidarity of farming families who crafted this cheese with the purpose to feed entire communities in harsh winters.
Gruyère is ripened in two stages: pre-ripened for 15 days at a temperature of 8° and 15°C to allow for the rind to form, and to prepare for ripening, the Gruyère then goes into a warm cellar for one day at a temperature of 15°C. As soon as pea sized holes start to appear in the cheese, it goes into a cold cellar, to allow the cheesemakers to control the fermentation..
This golden cheese with cherry sized holes has a smooth, soft and springy texture and a fresh, slightly sweet taste.