Point Reyes Farmstead's Original Blue Recipe

Temper the cheese

Remove the Point Reyes Original Blue from refrigeration 30–60 minutes before serving and keep it wrapped in its paper or a loose cloth. Letting the cheese come to cool room temperature (about 50–60 minutes if refrigerated) opens its texture and flavor.

Portion

Place the unwrapped wheel or wedge on the serving board. If the piece is larger than serving portions, cut into wedges about 1–1.5 ounces each (use a knife warmed under hot water and wiped dry for cleaner cuts). Arrange wedges with the rind exposed for visual appeal.

Season

Lightly grind fresh black pepper over the exposed surface of the blue to complement its tangy richness. Do not salt—the cheese is already seasoned.

Core and thinly slice the pear right before serving to prevent browning. Quarter fresh figs (or halve dried figs) and arrange with grapes near the cheese so guests can pair fruit with the blue.

Slice the baguette on the bias into 1/4-inch slices. Lightly brush with olive oil (optional) and toast in a 375°F (190°C) oven for 6–8 minutes until lightly golden, or toast in a skillet until crisp. Arrange toasted slices and crackers on the board in a fanned pattern for easy access.

Toast walnuts in a dry skillet over medium heat for 3–4 minutes until fragrant; cool slightly. Place walnuts in a small bowl. Spoon honey into a small dipping dish or drizzle a thin stream over a wedge of blue immediately before serving. Offer fig jam or quince paste in a small jar or spoon beside the cheese.

Tuck rosemary or thyme sprigs around the board for aroma and visual contrast. Arrange items so there are contrasting textures and colors: cheese center or focal point, fruit on one side, crackers and bread on the other, nuts and jam in small dishes. Provide a cheese knife or spreader near the blue.

Serve at cool room temperature with small plates and forks or spreaders. Encourage pairing bites: a thin slice of pear or fig with a smear of blue and a drizzle of honey, or blue on cracker topped with jam and walnut. Refresh honey and jam portions as needed.