February Birth Cheese
Birth Cheese
Mont d'Or
Mont d'Or is a special washed-rind cheese produced only during the limited period from August 15 to March 15 of the following year in the Jura Mountains of the Burgundy-Franche-Comté region of France. Officially called 'Vacherin du Haut-Doubs,' it has been beloved since the mid-18th century as a historic cheese. Its unique production method involves wrapping in the bark of épicéa (spruce) trees and aging on shelves made from the same wood, allowing the wood's aroma to infuse into the cheese. As it matures, the interior becomes creamy and soft, resembling cheese fondue. The rind ranges from light brown to beige and sometimes develops a beautiful white mold. Its rich, creamy flavor combines nutty depth with woody aromas in a complex taste profile. The traditional way of enjoying it warmed in the oven during cold seasons has made it an indispensable part of French winter dining tables.
Features
- Special packaging wrapped in épicéa (spruce) wooden box
- Creamy texture soft enough to scoop with a spoon
- Seasonal production limited from August 15 to March 15 of the following year
- 15-day surface treatment with salt water washing
- Minimum 21-day aging period
- Distinctive flavor infused with wood aroma
- Texture and flavor that transform when heated
Personality
- A dual-natured personality with a modest exterior yet passionate essence hidden within
- A sensitive character that responds delicately to environmental changes and is attuned to seasonal transitions
- An affectionate being that reveals its true charm when given warmth
- A conservative yet flexible heart that values tradition while cherishing new encounters
- Possesses patience and depth, maturing slowly over time
Symbolic Meaning
- Symbol of hidden warmth and affection
- Harmony with seasonal transitions and natural rhythms
- True beauty born from the gap between exterior and interior
- Respect for traditional craftsmanship and artisan skills
- Value of change and growth through the passage of time
- Bonds and warm community created through sharing
- Fusion of nature's bounty and human wisdom
Reason for Selection
- Characteristics that provide warmth and comfort needed during February's harsh cold
- Duality and potential for transformation symbolizing seasonal change of Setsubun
- Promotion of sharing and intimacy suitable for Valentine's Day expressions of love
- Special seasonal nature that bridges the end of winter and beginning of spring
- Quality of hidden passion blooming with external warmth resonates with February-born personalities
Protection & Effects
- Protective power that shields from cold and brings warmth to body and soul
- Social protection that heals loneliness and deepens bonds with others
- Power that eases fear of change and helps adaptation to new phases
- Wisdom to adapt to modern society while maintaining traditional values
- Patience to surrender to the flow of time and grow at a natural pace
Trials & Growth
- Trial of courage to accept the gap between appearance and inner self and express one's true nature
- Challenge to respond flexibly to seasonal changes and develop environmental adaptability
- Interpersonal trial of finding balance between solitary time and shared moments
- Acquiring flexibility to embrace innovation while respecting tradition
- Improving patience to wait for gradual maturation and insight to discern proper timing