Taleggio is the softest, creamiest member of the famous Italian Stracchino cheeses. First made in the valley of the same name, located in the historic province of Bergamo, Taleggio made its debut in the international cheese markets after World War I. It has a rough, rosy crust, pale yellow interior, and rich, fruity, and buttery flavor that is slightly salty.
 
DOP dictates 35 days minimum aging. This square, washed rind cheese has a peach colored rind that is slightly tacky to the touch, with yeasty and mushroom notes on the nose. The paste is stark white and dense, with no eyes. Its texture is plump and pudgy, almost spreadable at room temperature. Flavors are cream filled and bright, with just a slight earthy taste on the finish.
 
Taleggio's soft, incredibly flavorful interior is creamy in texture and has a pungent aroma. It pairs perfectly with bold red wines like Sangiovese, melted into polenta, or just served with crusty bread. The cheese imparts the essence of the Italian countryside in such a demonstrative manner that you could swear you were sitting among the cows on a grassy hillside in Lombardy.