Cabrales
Cabrales, hailing from the verdant Asturias region of Spain, stands as a testament to centuries-old cheese-making traditions and the rich culinary heritage of the land. Renowned for its bold and robust flavor profile, Cabrales is a blue cheese crafted from a harmonious blend of cow, goat, and sheep’s milk, each contributing to its distinctive character. Its intense and pungent taste is further accentuated by the growth of blue-green veins, the result of carefully nurtured mold spores that flourish during the cheese’s aging process, typically spanning 2 to 5 months within the natural confines of ancient caves.
With its crumbly texture and assertive aroma reminiscent of damp caverns and earthy mushrooms, Cabrales captivates the senses with its sharp tanginess balanced by a creamy sweetness. This culinary gem finds perfect companionship in strong red wines such as Rioja, as well as the delicate sweetness of apples and pears. Beyond mere accompaniments, Cabrales takes center stage in traditional Spanish fare, elevating dishes like the hearty Asturian bean stew and enriching sauces like the indulgent Cabrales sauce, a luscious blend of melted cheese infused into a velvety concoction often drizzled over succulent steak or golden potatoes.
Steeped in history and cultural significance, Cabrales bears the name of its birthplace, the quaint town of Cabrales, where time-honored techniques and artisanal craftsmanship converge to produce cheese of unparalleled quality. Protected by a designation of origin, Cabrales ensures authenticity, guaranteeing that only milk sourced from the Asturias region and crafted with traditional methods earns the esteemed title of this illustrious cheese. Indeed, Cabrales stands as a testament to the artistry and dedication of cheese-makers, embodying the essence of Spanish gastronomy and earning its place among the world’s finest blue cheeses.