Wilde Childe is a cow’s milk cheese from Switzerland with a ruddy, dried apricot hued rind. The paste is the colour of farmhouse butter and looks smooth and dense, with no holes apparent.
Wilde Childe presents a bouquet that is aromatic but without pungency. Fragrances include crème fraiche and butterscotch which contrasts pleasantly with faint notes of earthy porcini mushroom.
In the mouth the cheese is semi-firm, light and supple, with a texture not unlike fudge. Initially, flavours are sweetish, reminiscent of caramel and fresh cream. These aspects gradually develop into more savoury notes, with tantalising hints of fresh-baked brioche, roasted almonds and sautéed mushrooms.
Serve with a Clare Valley Riesling, a Yarra Valley Pinot Rosé, a Merlot, or a Sparkling Ale.
Wilde Childe is flavoursome enough to serve on its own with water biscuits and thin slices of fresh apples and pears. It will also make a superb supper dish of grilled cheese on toast.
Wilde Childe is flavoursome enough to serve on its own with water biscuits and thin slices of fresh apples and pears. It will also make a superb supper dish of grilled cheese on toast. Or try it as the main ingredient in a Welsh Rarebit.