Ossau-Iraty (AOP/PDO)
Ossau-Iraty AOP is a historic and deeply flavourful sheep’s milk cheese, produced in the Basque Country and Béarn regions of southwestern France. As one of only two AOP-protected sheep’s milk cheeses in France, it is crafted using traditional methods that date back over 3,000 years, making it a true symbol of Pyrenean cheesemaking heritage.
Made from milk sourced exclusively from local breeds (Manech and Basco-Béarnaise sheep), Ossau-Iraty is aged for a minimum of 80 days, during which it develops a firm yet smooth texture and a beautifully rich, nutty, and slightly sweet flavour. Younger wheels offer a buttery, grassy freshness, while aged versions take on deeper caramelised, roasted hazelnut, and lanolin notes, reflecting the natural mountain pastures where the sheep graze.
A versatile cheese, Ossau-Iraty is equally delicious on a cheeseboard, melted into Basque dishes, or paired with cured meats and fruit. It is traditionally enjoyed with black cherry preserves, a regional favourite, and pairs wonderfully with medium-bodied reds like Irouléguy, Madiran, or a crisp Jurançon white.
At Cheesemongery.com, we source only authentic Ossau-Iraty AOP, ensuring exceptional quality, full traceability, and the true taste of the Pyrenean mountains. Order yours today and experience one of France’s most historic and revered sheep’s milk cheeses.
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