The Cheesemonger’s Notes
Traditional Italian washed rind cheese with soft texture and rich, savoury depth
Taleggio is one of Italy’s oldest and most celebrated soft cheeses, originating in the Lombardy region and named after the Val Taleggio valley where it was first made over a thousand years ago. This historic washed rind cheese remains a cornerstone of Italian cheesemaking tradition.
Made using cow’s milk and carefully matured, Taleggio develops a soft, yielding texture beneath its distinctive washed rind. During maturation, the cheese is regularly washed, encouraging the development of its characteristic pink-orange rind and contributing to its complex flavour.
The interior becomes smooth and creamy, offering rich buttery notes balanced by gentle savoury depth and subtle tang. Despite its aromatic rind, the flavour remains approachable and refined, delivering depth without excessive strength.
Taleggio is renowned for its melting qualities, making it as valuable in the kitchen as it is on the cheese board.
Perfect Pairings
• Crusty bread or focaccia
• Fresh pear or fig
• Honey or fruit preserves
• Italian white wines such as Pinot Grigio
• Light red wines
Ideal Uses
• A classic addition to a cheese board
• Melted into risotto or pasta
• Perfect on pizza
• Served with bread and fruit
• Ideal introduction to washed rind cheeses
Why We Stock It
Taleggio represents centuries of Italian cheesemaking expertise. Its balance of creamy texture and savoury depth makes it one of the world’s most versatile and rewarding soft cheeses.
At The Norfolk Deli, we select cheeses that combine heritage, craftsmanship, and exceptional flavour. Taleggio delivers all three, offering customers an authentic taste of traditional Italian cheesemaking.
