Every year on March 27 is observed as
International Cheese Day
, even though it feels like the perfect reason for us to honor this greatly admired item, the reality is that every moment serves as an excellent opportunity to highlight the significance of one of humanity’s most ancient edibles. Every nation boasts its distinct variety, cherished tradition, and special method of savoring it. Whether they’re matured cheeses that have aged for years or those that remain fresh and smooth, these items have been woven into human history from times long past. Join us today as we take you on a journey through
explore 11 famous cheeses hailing from various parts of the globe
We will explore their origins, distinctive flavors, culinary uses, and naturally, identify the ideal drinks to pair with them. However, take heed—once you see the full selection, you might reconsider your upcoming shopping list! 😄
1. Parmigiano Reggiano (Italy)
Referred to as the “King of Cheeses,” Parmigiano Reggiano, or
Parmesan
In everyday terms, this cheese hails from the Emilia-Romagna area and is crafted using unpasteurized cow’s milk through a traditional method that hasn’t changed much since medieval times. Its aging period ranges from 12 to 36 months, resulting in a crumbly consistency and distinct umami taste, complemented by hints of nuts and caramel.
How to enjoy it:
Shredded over pasta dishes, risottos, or soups, cut into pieces with balsamic vinegar, or served as an appetizer alongside figs and nuts.
Ideal pairing:
A fine dry Lambrusco or perhaps a Chianti, to complement its robustness.
Roquefort (France)
This sheep’s milk
blue cheese
is ripened in the caves of Roquefort-sur-Soulzon, where the mold Penicillium roqueforti imparts its distinctive blue marbling and robust, somewhat peppery taste.
How to enjoy:
For a meat dish, in a salad paired with walnuts and pears, or smeared on
Toast topped with walnuts and drizzled with honey
.
Ideal pairing:
Sauternes (the French sweet white wine) or Port can be paired with it to mellow out its strength.
3. Cheddar (United Kingdom)
This sturdy cheese hails from the village of Cheddar located in southwestern England. It stands out for its strong, fruity taste that becomes more pronounced as it ages.
How to enjoy it:
Perfect for burgers, sandwich melts, and mac & cheese. Additionally, it works wonderfully in a Cheddar and chorizo risotto.
Ideal pairing:
A stout or a medium-bodied red wine like shiraz.
4. Manchego (Spain)
Produced using Manchego sheep’s milk and aged for anywhere between two months to over a year, this cheese features a dense consistency with flavors that change based on how long they’ve been ripened; younger versions tend to be buttery and silky, whereas those allowed longer aging periods develop a stronger taste marked by hints of saltiness and spice.
How to enjoy it:
Served with quince jelly and almonds, atop a slice of toast smeared with tomato and drizzled with olive oil, or within a small sandwich filled with pork loin and peppers.
Ideal pairing:
Between a Tempranillo or a Fino de Jerez, which complements its taste?
5. Gruyère (Switzerland)
This type of Swiss cheese, similar to Emmental but lacking its characteristic holes, boasts a robust texture and a taste profile that develops over time. Cheeses at an early stage offer a sweetness and creaminess, whereas those allowed to age gain complex undertones reminiscent of caramel and nuts.
How to enjoy:
In a classic Swiss fondue, within a creamy potato gratin, or atop a perfectly golden croque monsieur.
Ideal pairing:
Options like dry white wine include Chasselas or Chardonnay.
6. Gorgonzola (Italy)
The
Italian blue cheese
exceptionally rich and smooth, offering a flawless equilibrium between sweet and salty flavors.
How to enjoy it:
Whether it’s in a risotto combined with pears and walnuts, atop a pizza drizzled with honey, or within a pasta sauce.
Ideal pairing:
Gentle Sweet Marsala or commanding Barolo, each showcasing their strength.
7. Camembert (France)
This
Normandy cheese
Features a smooth white rind with a silky inside. The taste ranges from subtle to strong as it ages.
How to enjoy it:
Prepared with honey and rosemary, served either in a sandwich with ham and apple or just paired with rustic bread.
Ideal pairing:
A Brut Champagne or a Normandy cider.
8. Feta (Greece)
Composed of sheep’s and goat’s milk, feta cheese is a
must in Mediterranean cuisine
, thanks to its distinctive briny taste and its sturdy, flaky consistency.
How to enjoy:
In Greek salads, within spinach pies, or drizzled with honey.
Ideal pairing:
Assyrtiko white wine or a dry rosé.
9. Oaxaca (Mexico)
Also
called quesillo
This string cheese features thin, elongated strands with a subtle, creamy taste.
How to enjoy it:
In quesadillas, stuffed with chiles rellenos or served alongside grilled refried beans.
Ideal pairing:
Young mezcal or a matured tequila.
10. Halloumi (Cyprus)
This semi-hard cheese
can be prepared without losing shape
, making it an excellent option for grilling.
How to enjoy it:
Grilled with lemon, served in a watermelon and mint salad or within one
gyros
(the quintessential Greek sandwich).
Ideal pairing:
Options include dry white wines like Sauvignon Blanc or a lighter rosé.
11. Stilton (United Kingdom)
A
British blue cheese
Offering a rich consistency and intense taste, complemented by a hint of sweetness.
How to enjoy:
Whether it’s in pasta sauces with nuts, on rye bread, or within broccoli soup.
Ideal pairing:
A port or a full-bodied red wine.
How about you?
What’s your go-to cheese among these options? Have you sampled them all? Or is there one specific type you’re eager to taste? Share your thoughts below!
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