Caring : Smearing

Step 4 : Caring

Fourth Care:  Smearing

The cheese maturers rub the cheeses with a clean cotton cloth dipped in a solution that the cheese maturers prepare themselves called “the smear.”  Like a sort of brine, it is made up of salt, water and/or local distilled liqueur.  This action serves to modify the texture, appearance, aromas and flavors of the cheeses.  The “smear” seeps into the cheese and releases its flavors inside the cheese.