Capri Blu Cheese
Origin
Canada, Italy, Lombardy
Milk Type
goat
Texture
creamy, soft
Flavor
creamy, subtle, sweet
Aroma
goaty
Color
pale yellow
Rind
natural
Vegetarian
No
Price Range
💰€5-15 per kg
What is Capri Blu?
Capri Blu is a distinctive soft, blue-veined cheese made from goat's milk, originating from both Canada and Italy. This cheese is celebrated for its creamy texture and striking blue veins that run throughout, offering a bold and tangy flavor profile. The rind is typically thin and edible, adding a slight earthy note to the overall taste. Capri Blu stands out for its balance between the creamy richness of goat's milk and the sharp, piquant character of blue mold, making it a favorite among cheese enthusiasts seeking something unique.
History of Capri Blu
Capri Blu's origins trace back to artisanal cheesemaking traditions in both Canada and Italy, where the use of goat's milk in cheese production has a long history. The cheese embodies the fusion of these two cultures' cheesemaking techniques, combining Italian flair for blue-veined cheeses with Canadian innovation in goat cheese production. While not as widely known as some other blue cheeses, Capri Blu has carved out a niche for itself among connoisseurs who appreciate its distinctive flavor and texture.
How Capri Blu is Made
Capri Blu is produced using pasteurized goat's milk, which is then inoculated with Penicillium roqueforti to develop its characteristic blue veins. The curdling process involves the addition of rennet to coagulate the milk, after which the curds are cut, drained, and molded. The cheese is then pierced to allow air to enter and encourage the growth of blue mold. Aging takes place in controlled environments for several weeks to months, during which the cheese develops its complex flavors and creamy texture.
Flavor Profile
Capri Blu offers a complex flavor profile that combines the tangy, slightly sweet notes of goat's milk with the sharp, piquant taste of blue mold. Its aroma is earthy and slightly pungent, typical of blue-veined cheeses. The texture is creamy and smooth, with a melt-in-the-mouth quality that is balanced by the slight crunch of the blue veins.
Perfect Pairings for Capri Blu
Capri Blu pairs wonderfully with sweet and fruity accompaniments such as figs, pears, and honey, which complement its tangy and piquant flavors. For beverages, a sweet dessert wine like Sauternes or a robust red wine such as Cabernet Sauvignon can balance the cheese's intensity. Beer enthusiasts might enjoy it with a Belgian Dubbel or a fruity Lambic. For a more adventurous pairing, try it with a dark chocolate or a nutty bread to enhance its complex flavors.
Nutritional Information
Fat Content
High
Calcium Content
Moderate
Frequently Asked Questions
Is Capri Blu similar to Gorgonzola?
While both are blue-veined cheeses, Capri Blu is made from goat's milk, giving it a tangier and slightly sweeter flavor compared to Gorgonzola's cow's milk base.
Can Capri Blu be used in cooking?
Yes, its creamy texture and bold flavor make it excellent for melting into sauces, topping pizzas, or incorporating into savory dishes.
How should Capri Blu be stored?
Wrap it in parchment paper and then in plastic wrap, storing it in the refrigerator's cheese drawer to maintain its moisture and flavor.
What makes Capri Blu unique?
Its use of goat's milk and the balance between creamy texture and sharp, piquant blue veins set it apart from other blue cheeses.
Is Capri Blu suitable for vegetarians?
This depends on the rennet used. Traditional animal rennet is not vegetarian, but some producers may use microbial rennet, making it suitable for vegetarians.