You’ve mastered the art of fresh cheese and are looking for a new challenge? Aging (affinage) is made for you.

 

Aging is undoubtedly the most complex step in cheese making. It's during this phase that the flavors and unique characteristics of the cheese are developed. This is a complex biochemical process that transforms delicate fresh cheeses into rich, flavorful creations.

Let’s take a look at the main obstacles to avoid and the key factors you’ll need to control to get the best results possible.

 

Time, temperature, and everything in between

Two main parameters to control are the aging time and the temperature of the aging space. In addition to these, there are many other details to monitor: air circulation, humidity level, the way the cheese is made, the care it receives during aging, hygiene, packaging, and more.

The number of critical details involved makes aging even more complex.

 

A matter of taste

The time and temperature required for aging will vary depending on the type of cheese you want. Do you prefer a drier cheese, or one that’s gooey and soft? You'll need to adjust your process accordingly. In general, home aging can be done at temperatures between 10°C and 12°C (50°F to 54°F).

Aging time can range from a few days to several months depending on the desired outcome.

 

Home aging is possible, but…

Aging at home is entirely feasible, but for it to be a successful experience, you’ll need to be patient and know how to control several specific factors.

 

Temperature and air circulation

To properly control temperature, you’ll need an enclosed container where you can maintain a precise, stable environment. A wine cooler or cellar works perfectly for this.

Depending on the air flow needs of your cheese, you may want to open the wine cooler door and flip the cheeses once a day to ensure proper air circulation.

 

Humidity

To control humidity, install a hygrometer to monitor levels continuously. Then, to keep humidity at an optimal level, you'll need a way to add moisture to the environment.

Here are a few options to help you maintain high humidity:

 

Care during the aging process

Your cheeses will require several forms of care to ensure optimal aging. Flipping your cheeses promotes better airflow and a more even distribution of moisture on the surface.

You can also wash and brush your cheeses, which helps form a good rind more quickly. The washing solution is an integral part of your recipe and can vary widely depending on your goals.

For brushing (which can help remove unwanted mold), a clean, sterilized toothbrush used only for this purpose works perfectly.

 

Hygiene

This part is simple: everything you use must be dedicated to your cheese. Sterilize all your tools and surfaces to ensure only the good bacteria thrive. Hygiene is essential throughout every step of the cheese-making and aging process.

 

 

So there you have it — a solid starting point if you're ready to dive into the fascinating world of cheese aging.

Happy aging!

This article is a practical guide designed to help beginners and enthusiasts dive into homemade cheese making. It outlines the essential tools needed to get started — from basic kitchen equipment like a heavy-bottomed pot and strainer to more specialized tools like cheese molds and thermometers. The post is divided into two clear sections: For Beginner Cheesemakers: A list of accessible items most people already have at home, with optional upgrades like self-standing strainers and cheesecloth. For Advanced Cheesemakers: Professional tools like electric cheese vats, dedicated cheese molds, and even setting up a cheese aging room. The tone is approachable and encouraging, with the goal of demystifying the process and making it fun for home cooks. It ends by linking readers to another article on aging cheese for those ready to take the next step.

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