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WELCOME TO THE MOUNTAIN TOP CURDBOX!
WELCOME TO THE MOUNTAIN TOP CURDBOX
High in the mountains, where lush pastures meet the crisp, clean air of the Alps, a tradition of cheese-making as old as the peaks themselves continues to flourish. And it’s in this idyllic setting that Alpine-inspired cheeses take shape—with their flavors deeply tied to the land. These cheeses are celebrated for their texture, as well as a delicate saltiness that highlights their natural richness, and a super melt-ability that makes them a culinary favorite worldwide. But what truly sets them apart is the way the mountain environ- ment—with its wildflower-filled meadows, pure water, and cool, slow-aging conditions—infuses every wheel with the essence of the landscape. So this month, we dive into some of these remarkable cheeses, to uncover how the Alpine regions and their cheesemaking methods come together to create flavors that are as timeless as the mountains themselves.
So let’s take a look and see what we brought you in this month’s box...
Reading Raclette by Spring Brook Farm
Reading Raclette, crafted by Spring Brook Farm in Vermont, is a remarkable artisan cheese that reimagines the traditional Alpine Raclette with an American farmhouse touch. Made from raw Jersey cow milk—this cheese embodies a commitment to quality and sustainability. Aged for approximately three months, it develops a semi-soft, creamy texture that melts beautifully and showcases a rich, complex flavor profile, and its washed rind imparts a savory depth and a signature funky character. Its taste is layered with grassy, and subtly sweet undertones, finishing with a distinct nuttiness that lingers. Known for its versatility and celebrated for its craftsmanship, Reading Raclette has earned its place as a standout example of American cheesemaking innovation while honoring the Alpine traditions that inspired it.
Reading Raclette by Spring Brook Farm with the Pitted Green Olives from Divina
Le Gruyère AOP by Gourmino
Le Gruyère AOP, a celebrated cheese from Switzerland's French-speaking region, is an iconic example of traditional Alpine cheesemaking. Crafted from raw milk sourced from Brown Swiss cows grazing on small, local farms, this cheese reflects the exceptional quality of its ingredients. Each wheel is carefully aged for about six months in dedicated caves, allowing it to develop a firm, slightly crumbly texture that remains supple. The flavor profile is rich and nuanced, with predominant notes of toasted nuts, caramel, and a delicate floral freshness. Balanced hints of herbs, fruits, and a subtle Earthy undertone further enhance its complexity, making Le Gruyère AOP a quintessential expression of Swiss cheesemaking heritage.
The Le Gruyère AOP by Gourmino and the Landjäger from Schaller and Weber
Faultline by Central Coast Creamery
Faultline, produced by California’s Central Coast Creamery, is a semi-firm cheese crafted using a blend of Alpine and other cultures, which give it a complex flavor profile that is both nutty and sharp, with subtle fruity undertones. The paste features a creamy texture interspersed with characteristic tyrosine crystals and dotted with small eyes, adding to its visual and tactile appeal. Faultline strikes a balance between mellow sweetness and bold tang, evoking qualities of Cheddar, aged Gouda, and Gruyère. It combines the crumbly texture of Cheddar, the caramel richness of Gouda, and a hint of walnut and roasted-onion aroma reminiscent of Gruyère. A winner of "Best of California" at the 2023 California State Cheese Competition—Faultline exemplifies the artistry and ingenuity of California cheesemaking.
Faultline from Central Coast Creamery with the Whole Grain Mustard from Clovis
And here are the pairing items that go along with these amazing cheeses…
Landjäger by Schaller and Weber
Schaller & Weber’s Landjäger is a traditional German-style dried sausage that embodies the rich heritage of Alpine charcuterie. Made in New York, this savory treat combines high-quality beef and pork, seasoned with a proprietary blend of traditional alpine spices, and smoked over natural hardwood for a deep, rich flavor. The sausages are then air-dried to achieve their signature dense, chewy texture with a satisfying tangy finish. Originating in Germany and enjoyed across Austria, Switzerland, and France, Landjäger has become a beloved portable snack, celebrated for its robust taste and artisanal craftsmanship. Its enduring appeal reflects the meticulous attention to tradition and quality that Schaller & Weber is known for.
Pitted Green Olives by Divina
Divina's Pitted Green Olives are a testament to the art of traditional Mediterranean olive cultivation. Harvested by hand from the renowned groves of Mt. Athos in Greece, these mild green olives are carefully selected to ensure only the finest make the cut. Each olive is picked at peak ripeness, with growers revisiting the same trees over several weeks to achieve the perfect flavor profile. Gently cured to preserve their natural brightness and juiciness, these herbal and vibrant olives deliver an authentic taste of the Mediterranean. With their meticulous production process and premium quality, Divina’s green olives are a true celebration of Greek craftsmanship.
Whole Grain Mustard by Clovis
BClovis Whole Grain Mustard, crafted in France's Champagne region, embodies a rich tradition of mustard-making excellence dating back to the 19th century. This mustard is distinguished by its high content of Brassica Juncea brown and black seeds, which lend it a bold, rustic character. Enhanced with Reims Champagne vinegar, the mustard delivers a perfect balance of robust flavor, spice, and tang. As the only family-owned enterprise specializing in both Champagne vinegar and mustard—Clovis combines generations of expertise with the heritage of the region’s renowned vineyards.
The unique characteristics of Alpine cheeses are woven into every wheel, and tell the story of the mountains with every bite.
We’ll see you next month.
Did you take some photos while enjoying this box that you were thinking of adding to Instagram? Please tag us @curdbox along with our cheese and pairing-partners: @springbrookfarmcheese, @centralcoastcreamery, @gourminoltd, @schallerweber, @eatdivina, and @clovisreims. We love to see our cheese lovers enjoying their boxes!
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