Smelly & Soft Artisan Cheese

Discover characterful soft cheeses chosen for creamy textures, distinctive aromas and deeper flavour.

Characterful Cheese for Cheeseboards

Try Minger, then balance stronger styles with Cheddar or Blue Cheese. For gentler styles, browse Brie and Soft Cheese.

What to Serve with Soft Cheese

Add oatcakes, chutneys or charcuterie.

Build Your Cheeseboard

Use our Complete Cheeseboard Guide or browse Cheese Selections.

Understanding Characterful Soft Cheese

Aromatic soft cheeses often develop their character through ripening and rind treatment. Their smell can be more assertive than their actual flavour, so they are worth tasting before deciding how strong they are. Texture can also change considerably as a cheese matures.

On a board, one characterful soft cheese is often enough. Give it space and serve simpler accompaniments first so guests can taste the cheese itself.

Smelly & Soft Cheese FAQs

Why do some soft cheeses smell strong?

Rind development and ripening can create pronounced aromas. A strong smell does not necessarily mean the cheese will taste equally strong.

What is washed-rind cheese?

Washed-rind cheeses have their rinds treated during maturation, encouraging particular surface cultures and often producing distinctive aromas and savoury flavours.

What should I serve with smelly cheese?

Start with plain oatcakes or bread, then try chutney, fruit or charcuterie if the cheese can handle stronger accompaniments.

What cheeses balance a strong soft cheese?

A firm cheddar and a gentler Brie-style cheese can provide useful contrast on a mixed board.

Is Minger a Scottish cheese?

Yes. Minger is a characterful Scottish washed-rind cheese available in this collection.