Cheese Pungent is a term used to describe a type of cheese that has a strong, sharp flavor. BRIE is a soft, creamy cheese originating from France, with a mild flavor. Asiago is an Italian cheese that is semi-hard and has a nutty, slightly sweet flavor. Limburger is a semi-soft cheese originating from Belgium, with a strong, pungent smell and taste. All three cheeses are considered to be pungent, as they have a strong flavor and aroma.