There was fuzzy white/gray mold on it before washing with white vinegar. The color in the photo is a bit deceptive. The rind does have some of the linens red/pink/salmon color, but it is really more brown than red. This Esrom taught me one important thing: I am not good at diligently tending rind. Just too many other things to do in the day and the cheese rind gets neglected.
It didn't help that my daughter complained about the smell every time I opened the container. Apparently she has a very sensitive nose. She could detect the open box from anywhere in the house. Too bad that I love b.linens cheese. Well, anyway, along the way it was washed with various liquids. Sometimes brine, sometimes vinegar, a little red wine, and cognac once or twice. Umm, I am certain that commercial cheesemakers are more diligent about the rind tending. I'm sure that helps with mold control.