Firstkönig

This Swiss semi-hard cows milk cheese is a stunning mountain cheese that is rubbed with a light brine during its maturation.

CHARACTERISTICS

Firstkönig is a semi-hard Swiss mountain cheese - the literal translation is 'First King' which is an apt description for this great cheese. Named after the Churfirsten mountain range that dominates the region. A mountain cheese (or “Bergkäse”), it is made with whole unpasteurised milk and smeared in a light brine as it matures, giving the rind an amber colour and assisting in the development of its flavour. FirstKönig has a dense, creamy texture with a herbaceous flavour and a delicately spicy finish.

A little history about Firstkönig

Reto Güntensberg grew up making cheese alongside his father in their traditional family dairy. Bütschwil Dairy is located in the lower Toggenburg region that is well known for making Appenzeller. Reto has now taken over as head cheesemaker and has modernised the facilities. This stunning raw milk cheese is one of his finest.

Goes well with:

Dry Oloroso Sherry, full-bodied and aromatic white wines

Similar cheeses:

Appenzeller, Fort Aged Comte, Swiss Gruyère Vieux,

Printable Cheese Note