The fragrance of cheese develops better at room temperature. It is consequently advisable to take cheese out of the fridge roughly half an hour before it is to be eaten.

However, you should also bear in mind that food will not keep so well nor taste so good if it is subjected to too many changes of temperature : - Only take what is likely to be eaten out of the fridge and not cheese that you plan to keep for several days. - Protect cheese prior to serving (cover it with kitchen foil, a clean cloth or a cheese cover). - After the meal return any unfinished cheese to the fridge as soon as possible. - Do not mix leftovers with produce that has stayed in the fridge (separate containers or wrapping).

When cheese matures ... If the cheese looks tired (dry or floppy) cut off a thin slice just before serving. Some goat's cheeses, such as Crottin or Chabichou, age well and their flavour develops. A word of caution though: they dislike intense cold just as much as heat.