Question about fancy cheese and how to present

[tuvor]

I just bought some smoked Gouda, and I've unwrapped as much as I can--Wax, then paper.

There's still a dark brown colour around the perimeter of the cheese. I'm cutting it into cubes. Do I have to cut away this last bit of brown, or is that edible?

[4morewars]

1. I would leave that

That's where the smokey flavor is.

[tuvor]

3. Thanks very much, 4morewars!

My guests and I are indebted.

Have a great evening.

[4morewars]

5. Bon Apetit !

[PennyK]

2. What a coinkydink!

That's my daughter's new favorite! I must admit it IS yummy.

[Mikimouse]

4. Cutting off the brown layer is a FELONY! Careful...

It is also usually better if you don't remove all of the wax at one time. I usually wait until just before serving to the final 'cubing', so that the cheese stays failry soft. Best served at room temperature to highlight the smoky flavor. Great stuff, that.