Taleggio, named after Val Taleggio, an alpine valley in the Italian region of Lombardy, has been around since Roman times. It has been mentioned in the writings of Cicero, Cato the Elder, and Pliny the Elder.. Pale yellow in color with a creamy texture and a strong aroma, this semi-soft, washed rind cheese has a mild, fruity tang. It is often enjoyed grated on salads or on bruschetta. It also is known for melting well and being used in risotto or on polenta.