November Birth Cheese
Birth Cheese
Époisses
Époisses is a masterpiece of washed-rind cheese made in France's Burgundy region since the 16th century. During aging, the surface is washed with Marc de Bourgogne (brandy made from grape pomace), forming distinctive brown rind and rich flavors. It was chosen for November, when autumn foliage deepens and Thanksgiving approaches, because washing with marc expresses gratitude for grape blessings after harvest, and golden interior symbolizes inner richness. Through 5-8 weeks of aging, it possesses simple exterior yet rich, creamy interior texture, with introspective and profound character that quietly ages to pursue essential value. Pairing excellently with Burgundy wine, pain d'épices, and pears, it's a special presence expressing inner brilliance and quiet gratitude, fitting for thanksgiving gatherings and quiet dinners.
Features
- Distinctive brown rind formed by washing surface with Marc de Bourgogne
- Dual structure with hard exterior and rich, creamy interior through 5-8 weeks aging
- Granted AOC certification since 1991, produced under strict standards in Burgundy region
- Excellent compatibility with Burgundy wine, pain d'épices, and pears, expressing regional character
- Soft enough to eat with spoon, possessing rich and fragrant flavors
Personality
- Meditative and introspective character with simple exterior concealing deep inner richness
- Philosophical spirit that matures quietly over time, pursuing essential value
- Humble personality that values grateful heart and holds deep respect for blessings
- Possesses deep wisdom that values inner fulfillment over superficial beauty
- Introverted charm that loves silence and values time for deep contemplation and meditation
Symbolic Meaning
- Gratitude for harvest and respect for blessings represented by washing with marc
- Beauty of contrast between appearance and interior shown by brown rind and golden core
- Inner exploration and spiritual growth symbolized by quiet aging process
- Deep attachment to tradition and terroir nurtured by Burgundy land
- Beauty of season of maturity and gratitude expressed by deepening autumn
Reason for Selection
- Expresses gratitude for harvest and inner richness in November, the Thanksgiving season
- Washing with marc symbolically expresses gratitude for grapes' final blessings
- Represents beauty of exterior change and inner fulfillment during deepening autumn foliage
- Expresses value of meditative and introspective time in quiet late autumn atmosphere
- Burgundy terroir perfectly embodies season of gratitude and abundance
Protection & Effects
- Nurtures inner richness and grants deep insight not misled by superficial values
- Deepens grateful heart and nurtures sensitive, humble spirit that notices daily blessings
- Provides wisdom to understand value of silence and cherish meditative time
- Fosters power to learn beauty of time-honored maturity and grow steadily without haste
- Grants responsibility to deepen respect for tradition and apply ancestral wisdom to modern times
Trials & Growth
- Taste maturation to adapt to strong aromas and understand deep flavors
- Acquiring observation skills and patience to judge proper eating timing
- Effort to learn traditional combinations and deepen understanding of regional culture
- Developing courage to value quiet time and face one's inner self
- Spiritual growth to apply grateful heart to daily life and maintain humility