Facts about Brie
- 07
Brie's exterior can develop a brownish or grayish discoloration during the final stages of ripening, signaling peak maturity and optimal eating conditions for connoisseurs.
- 06
Brie's thin rind develops ammonia notes as it ages, which is why experienced cheese lovers prefer wheels still slightly firm at the center rather than fully liquefied throughout.
- 05
Serving brie at room temperature between 60 and 70 degrees Fahrenheit allows its full flavor profile and creamy interior to develop properly, unlike when consumed straight from refrigeration.
- 04
A wheel of brie typically weighs between 250 and 300 grams and measures roughly 10 centimeters in diameter with a thin edible rind.
- 03
During aging, brie develops its characteristic creamy texture through a white mold called Penicillium candidum that grows on the rind for 4 to 6 weeks.
- 02
Approximately 500 million pounds of brie cheese are consumed annually worldwide, with France producing roughly 60,000 tons per year.
- 01
The soft cheese brie originated in the French region of Île-de-France during the 12th century and contains approximately 50 percent fat content.