La Serena Cheese
Origin
Spain, Extremadura
Milk Type
sheep
Texture
creamy, spreadable
Flavor
bitter, full-flavored, sharp, strong
Aroma
pleasant, strong
Color
straw
Rind
washed
Vegetarian
Yes
Price Range
💰💰€15-30 per kg
What is La Serena?
La Serena cheese is a distinctive soft cheese made from the milk of Merino sheep, originating from the Extremadura region of Spain. It is renowned for its creamy texture and intense flavor, which is a result of the unique production process that includes the use of cardoon thistle as a coagulant instead of traditional rennet. The cheese has a soft, almost spreadable interior with a thin, natural rind that can range in color from yellow to brown. Its appearance is rustic, reflecting its artisanal roots. La Serena is typically aged for a minimum of 60 days, during which it develops a complex flavor profile that is both bold and nuanced.
History of La Serena
La Serena cheese has a rich history that dates back to the pastoral traditions of the Extremadura region. The use of Merino sheep milk and cardoon thistle as a coagulant is a practice that has been passed down through generations, making La Serena a cheese deeply rooted in local culture and tradition. It was granted Denomination of Origin (DO) status in 1992, recognizing its unique characteristics and the traditional methods used in its production. This cheese is a testament to the region's commitment to preserving its cheesemaking heritage.
How La Serena is Made
La Serena cheese is produced exclusively from the milk of Merino sheep, which graze on the natural pastures of Extremadura. The milk is coagulated using an extract from the cardoon thistle, a method that imparts a distinctive bitterness and complexity to the cheese. After coagulation, the curds are gently ladled into molds, where they are lightly pressed to remove excess whey. The cheese is then salted and aged for at least 60 days in controlled conditions, allowing it to develop its characteristic creamy texture and rich flavor.
Flavor Profile
La Serena cheese offers a bold and complex flavor profile, with a pronounced earthiness and a slight bitterness from the cardoon thistle. Its aroma is intense and slightly pungent, with hints of grass and nuts. The texture is creamy and smooth, almost spoonable, making it a luxurious treat for the palate.
Perfect Pairings for La Serena
La Serena cheese pairs beautifully with robust red wines such as Tempranillo or Rioja, which can stand up to its intense flavor. For a contrasting pairing, try it with a crisp, dry white wine like Albariño. Beer enthusiasts might enjoy it with a rich, malty ale. On the food side, La Serena is excellent with crusty bread, quince paste, and cured meats. For a unique experience, drizzle it with a bit of honey or serve it alongside roasted nuts.
Nutritional Information
Fat Content
High
Calcium Content
High
Frequently Asked Questions
What makes La Serena cheese unique?
La Serena is unique due to its use of Merino sheep milk and cardoon thistle as a coagulant, which imparts a distinctive bitterness and complexity to the cheese.
How long is La Serena cheese aged?
La Serena cheese is aged for a minimum of 60 days, allowing it to develop its creamy texture and rich flavor.
Can La Serena cheese be used in cooking?
Yes, La Serena's creamy texture makes it excellent for spreading on bread or crackers, and it can also be used as a luxurious topping for various dishes.
What are some good pairings for La Serena cheese?
La Serena pairs well with robust red wines, crisp white wines, and rich ales. It also goes well with crusty bread, quince paste, and cured meats.
Is La Serena cheese similar to any other cheeses?
La Serena is similar to other soft sheep's milk cheeses like Torta del Casar and Queso de la Serena, which also use cardoon thistle as a coagulant and have a creamy texture.