The Art of Aging

The art and science of aging cheese, plus product recommendations

Cheesemongers working in the Neal's Yard Dairy in London.
Under old railroad arches in south London, the Neal’s Yard Dairy team ages a great range of cheeses. (Harry Darby)

Affinage ... It’s one of those French terms that rolls off the tongue, imbued with a certain mystique, hinting loudly at savvy and sophistication. Literally translated, it means “refinement.” In the world of fine cheese, it covers pretty much everything that happens to a cheese from the time it’s fully formed until it’s ready to be enjoyed. In other words, aging. Learn more about the affinage process and where to buy some of our top recommended aged cheeses!

Member-Only Content

Premium Subscription

Join today and get immediate access to this article, and to our entire database of more than 400,000 wine ratings. It only takes moments—but it will help you drink better all year long.

Start Free 30-day Trial

Already a member? Sign In

Try Winespectator.com Free for 30 Days!

Full access to our database of more than 425,000 wine ratings

Early access to reviews on our editors' favorite just-rated wines

Wine and food pairing tool,
chefs' pairing recommendations

Best value wines and winery intel

Subscribe today

You Might Also Like

Pairing Cheese with California Chardonnay

Pairing Cheese with California Chardonnay

Some of the best cheeses to pair with your favorite California bottles

Jul 31, 2024
Omnivore: A Chef Show That Puts Ingredients First

Omnivore: A Chef Show That Puts Ingredients First

The new Apple TV+ series from Noma chef René Redzepi and food writer Matt Goulding explores …

Jul 31, 2024
Impress Dad with Something New on the Grill This Father’s Day

Impress Dad with Something New on the Grill This Father’s Day

How many times can you do steak? Instead, try this recipe for grilled octopus with …

Jun 11, 2024
Uni at Home

Uni at Home

How to prepare and serve fresh sea urchin in the comfort of your own kitchen

Jun 30, 2024
A Tasting of Ewe’s Milk Standouts

A Tasting of Ewe’s Milk Standouts

A tasting plate of eight sheep’s milk cheeses

May 31, 2024
Waste Not

Waste Not

Healdsburg restaurant Little Saint demonstrates how to use tasty ingredients to their full …

Apr 30, 2024