Short Answer
For those who dare to venture into the aromatic world of cheese, the stench often dictates the strength of flavor. While some cheeses are renowned for their delicate and subtle scents, others present an olfactory challenge that many find nearly unbearable. From pungent, earthy odors to effluvial notes reminiscent of damp cellars, the smelliest cheeses are not simply a test of one’s stamina for strong fragrances; they are celebrated for their complex flavors and textures that tantalize the palate. Below, we delve into the ten smelliest cheeses ever crafted, each with a unique story and flavor profile that justifies their rank among the stinking elite.
1. Époisses de Bourgogne
This French cheese, encased in a reddish-orange rind, is perhaps the most notorious among stinky cheeses. Époisses de Bourgogne is bathed in Marc de Bourgogne, a local brandy, which contributes to its pungent aroma. The smell can be likened to that of a wet dog or even something far more formidable. Despite its olfactory offense, the interior reveals a creamy texture with flavors that range from mild to decadently boozy, making it a sought-after delicacy.
2. Roquefort
Originating from the south of France, Roquefort is a blue cheese known for its intense aroma and complex flavor. Aged in the natural caves of Roquefort-sur-Soulzon, it develops a robust and somewhat tangy scent that can be overwhelming to the unaccustomed. Made from sheep’s milk, its characteristic blue veins provide a sharp bite, further enhanced by its creamy texture. Roquefort is a quintessential example of how scent can lead one into the layers of a cheese’s distinct flavor.
3. Limburger
Limburger, a cheese hailing from Belgium, is infamous for its distinctly strong smell—often compared to that of a smelly foot. The cheese undergoes a unique aging process that allows bacteria to flourish on its surface, resulting in an aromatic profile that can be off-putting. The flavor, however, tells a different tale; it is rich and buttery with a slight tang that compels many to embrace its pungency as part of its charm.
4. Stinking Bishop
This English cheese has an amusing backstory tied to its namesake, the Stinking Bishop pear. It is washed in perry (fermented pear juice), which contributes to its distinctive odor. Stinking Bishop’s washed rind yields a notable aroma that is often described as reminiscent of old cellar linens. The cheese itself is deliciously creamy and complex in flavor—once you can get past the smell, it offers a delightful experience for the palate.
5. Camembert
While Camembert’s scent may not strike as fiercely as some others on this list, its aroma carries an undeniable strength that makes it noteworthy. This soft, creamy cheese from Normandy releases a rich, buttery smell, with hints of earthiness that can sometimes verge on the funky. Its texture and flavor are a superb balance of creamy richness, often leaving an unforgettable impression, especially when paired with crusty bread.
6. The Stinking Cheese of Andean Condor
Deep in the mountains of South America, this artisanal cheese is made from the milk of llamas and known for its heady scent that some find borderline unbearable. The farming techniques are ancient, and the cheese is often left to mature in caves amongst other produce. Despite the intimidating aroma, The Stinking Cheese of Andean Condor offers a rich, nutty flavor that contrasts its beguiling scent, making it a curiosity for adventurous cheese aficionados.
7. Vieux Lille
Hailing from the northern region of France, Vieux Lille boasts an aroma that some describe as reminiscent of strong feet or smelly socks. This is due to the specific bacteria used in its production. The cheese features a hard texture and a slightly crumbly interior, yet the pungent fragrance does not deter those who appreciate its depth of flavor. Fans of Vieux Lille find its unique scent a precursor to the robust, nutty taste that lies within.
8. Greasy Cheese
Produced using traditional methods in rural Italy, Greasy Cheese has earned itself a reputation for its unusual smell—some say it is akin to aged honey or effluent. It is crafted from cow or goat milk, using the seasonal pastures to impact flavor. The intense, oily flavor of this cheese is unexpected, delivering notes of sweet cream and a richness that captivates the palate despite its unglamorous aroma.
9. Chèvre de Pouldreuzic
This goat cheese from Brittany presents an aroma as strong as its local folklore. The scent is potent and somewhat reminiscent of barnyards, infusing the environment with earthy notes. Made from unpasteurized goat milk, Chèvre de Pouldreuzic has a distinctive tang that marries with its robust smell, providing an enchanting tasting experience to adventurous cheese lovers.
10. Huhu Roasted Beetle Cheese
For the most daring among us, Huhu Roasted Beetle Cheese is an adventurous foray into the unconventional. It is infused with roasted huhu beetles native to New Zealand, imparting an indefinable odor that can be shocking and disorienting to the senses. The flavor profile is surprisingly savory, with sweet undertones, creating a unique gastronomic experience that few are brave enough to undertake.
While the world of cheese is vast and varied, it is the smelly cheeses that truly challenge conventional notions of flavor and aroma. Each of these cheeses offers a lesson in boldness, transforming an offensive scent into a culinary journey. Whether enjoyed on their own or paired with carefully selected accompaniments, these cheeses defy their notorious reputations, inviting adventurous explorers into their fragrant embrace. In the end, the beauty of cheese lies not just in its taste but in the stories woven into its very essence—each whiff carrying echoes of tradition, craftsmanship, and an undying zest for the unexpected.
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