Ardi Gasna
Ardi Gasna is a French sheep milk cheese, counted among the country's traditional sheep milk varieties alongside Roquefort, Ossau-Iraty and Abbaye de Bellocq.
Key Facts
| Country of Origin | France |
| Specific Origin | Midi-Pyrénées |
| Milk Type | Sheep's milk |
| Milk Treatment | Whole |
| Fat Content | 45% |
| Rind | Washed |
| Texture | Hard, artisan |
| Flavor | Mild, nutty, sharp |
| Aroma | Fresh |
| Colors | Pale yellow |
| Alternative Spellings | Ardi-gasna |
What is Ardi Gasna Cheese?
Ardi Gasna is one of the sheep milk cheeses of France. It sits in the same company as Roquefort, Ossau-Iraty, Abbaye de Bellocq, Agour and Brocciu, all made from ewe's milk.
Sheep give far less milk than cows, since they have only two teats. What they do give suits cheesemaking well: it carries more fat, solids and minerals than cow's milk, and its higher calcium content helps it resist contamination while it cools. Sheep's milk also holds 4.8% lactose, more than cow's milk, so cheese made from it is not a safe swap for anyone who is lactose intolerant.
Ripening takes at least two weeks. Many sheep milk cheeses are given two to three months, and some are held as long as two years before they are sold.
How Does Ardi Gasna Cheese Compare?
The most relevant cheeses to compare Ardi Gasna against.
