April 17, 2024

Cheese Wisdom: A bright-tasting Spanish cheese with a touch of spice

Goat’s milk cheese with a thin layer of pimentón

by Anita Skogland

Leonora Al Fuego Goat’s Milk, Castilla y Leon, Spain

Where to Purchase: Orrman’s Cheese Shop, Uptown
Price: $29/lb.

The Style: Creamy center with firm edge. The thin bloomy rind surrounds a thin layer of pimentón (smoked paprika)
Flavor Profile: Fresh, bright, soft, no goat funk aroma or flavor, hint of spice, smoky, dense and rich

How to Enjoy: Spread on sourdough bread, serve with sliced radishes, on the side with simple roasted asparagus, served with tart apple slices and dried apricots
Wine Pairings: Prosecco, Chenin Blanc, Riesling Kabinett, light body reds from Slovenia or Greece with a slight chill

Extra Reading: The cheese maker is Oscar Fernando Marcos Gonzalez. This cheese is made from the milk of two different breeds of goat and is aged 40 days prior to release. Most people associate sheep’s milk cheese with Spain. However, goat’s milk cheese is becoming more popular, as goats are easier to raise and less costly to maintain.

Check out the rest of our Cheese Wisdom picks!