What is a “Washed Rind” on a cheese?

What is a “Washed Rind” on a cheese?


A washed rind cheese is surface-ripened by washing and brushing the cheese throughout the ripening/aging process with brine, beer, wine, brandy, a mixture of these ingredients or any other interesting liquid that will impart flavor and create a different chemical balance for the growth of the bacteria. The Bacteria ripens the cheese from the outside in by breaking down the proteins and fats inside. Cleaning and brushing the rind causes the cheese to age more quickly creating a bolder, more noticeable tang.