Mimolette

Mimolette is a cheese traditionally produced around the city of Lille, France (where it is also known as Boule de Lille), and also in some areas of Belgium and the Netherlands, such as Flanders (where it is also known as vieux Hollande).

It was originally made by the request of Louis XIV, who wanted a French cheese to resemble Edam. In order to differentiate it from Edam, however, he had it colored orange.


A cow's-milk cheese, it normally weighs about 2 kg (approximately 4.5 pounds). Its name comes from the French word molle, meaning "soft". This refers to the softness of the crust when young - with age it becomes harder. It has a gray crust and orangish flesh. The orange color comes from the natural colorant, annatto. The cheese has a similar appearance, at first glance, to a cantaloupe.


The greyish crust of aged Mimolette is the result of cheese mites intentionally introduced to add flavor by their action on the surface of the cheese.


Mimolette can be consumed at different stages of aging. When younger, its taste resembles that of Parmesan. Most cheese-lovers appreciate it most when "extra-old" (extra-vieille). At that point, it can become rather hard to chew, and the flesh takes a hazelnut-like flavour.

I saw this cheese at my favourite " candy store" in Thornbury.. The Cheese Gallery
From the colour of it, I knew it had to be good. I asked for a sample and she laughed...I just got this in. I haven't carried it in my store, since it is one of the most expensive cheeses out there. $100/lb.  Alan laughed at me.." of course she had to find the most expensive cheese to taste!"  There aren't any price tags on the cheese on display, so I had no clue.

Well I tried it, and it was TRUE love....  I don't care. I needed a small slice to take home. WONDERFUL cheese...if you find it...it is worth a try.  You won't be disappointed.