Raw Sheep's Milk, Pyrenees, France.
A traditional and ancient style of cheese from the south-west of France. Awarded PDO status in the 1990's, and for good reason. Beneath its hay-colored, mold-dappled rind, Ossau-Iraty reveals a smooth ivory paste. The semi-firm cheese has notes of toasted wheat, roasted nuts, fresh grass and wildflowers. Its aromas are pleasantly buttery and sweet. As it ages, the cheese’s texture changes, losing its creamy yield and developing calcium crystals that result in a wonderful subtle crunch. The wheels get sharper and saltier with age—the young cheeses are pliable, and the older ones can become hard enough to grate. No matter its age, Ossau-Iraty is rich, complex and satisfying.
Ossau Iraty pairs perfectly with maritime lavender honey, Serrano Ham, and some Valencia Almonds.