The great cheese of the Vosges valleys: a strong smell, a gentle heart.
Where it comes from
Munster comes from the valleys of the Vosges mountains, on the border between Alsace and Lorraine. It takes its name from the town of Munster, where monks made cheese as early as the 7th century. It has been a protected name since 1969.
It is made from cow’s milk. During ripening, the rind is washed regularly with brine, which gives it its orange colour, its sticky surface and its powerful smell. Small and large versions are made, and ripening lasts from about two weeks to several weeks.
A smaller cousin, Géromé, is made on the Lorraine side of the mountains. Both share the same protected name and the same washed, orange rind. In the valleys, Munster is still made on farms as well as in dairies.
How it tastes
Do not judge Munster by its smell. Inside, the paste is soft, creamy and surprisingly mild, with notes of milk, broth and a gentle tang. As it ripens, it becomes stronger, more meaty and softer.
How to buy and serve it
- Look for a moist, orange rind and a supple paste.
- Keep it well wrapped and away from other food.
- Serve at room temperature.
- Locals often serve it with cumin seeds on the side, and boiled potatoes.
The pairing
The local answer: Gewurztraminer. This aromatic Alsace white smells of lychee, rose and spice. Its rich texture and touch of sweetness soften the salt and match the strong rind. A late-harvest Gewurztraminer is a real treat.
- From our list: Domaine Weinbach Pinot Gris “Clos des Capucins” (about €28), rich and faintly smoky.
- Drier: an Alsace Pinot Gris or a dry Riesling.
- Close to home: a Luxembourg Gewurztraminer or Pinot Gris from the Moselle.
- Avoid: tannic reds and very light, delicate whites.
Also try it with
- Boiled potatoes in their skins.
- A pinch of cumin seeds.
- Melted on a tarte flambée.
- Rye bread or a warm pretzel.
More cheeses → · See all twenty bottles →
Photo: Mario M. Lommersum, CC BY-SA 4.0, via Wikimedia Commons
Prices were checked in October 2026 and can change. Please drink responsibly. L’abus d’alcool est dangereux pour la santé, à consommer avec modération.