Αρσενικό Νάξου / Arseniko Naxou Cheese

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About Αρσενικό Νάξου / Arseniko Naxou Cheese

Arseniko Naxou is a traditional hard cheese from Greece, specifically produced on the island of Naxos. It is made from non-pasteurized sheep's and goat's milk. The cheese is known for its intense, spicy, and bittersweet taste, along with a rich aroma. It has a buttery and smooth texture, with a hard but relatively thin rind. The cheese is matured for at least three months to ensure safety and enhance its flavor. Arseniko Naxou is produced from December to May, utilizing local vegetation for animal feed. The cheese is recognized as a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) product, highlighting its unique qualities linked to its geographical origin.

Key Facts

Country of Origin Greece
Specific Origin Naxos, including communities such as Apeiranthos, Damarionas, Danakos, and others.
Protection PDO (2017)
Milk Type Sheep's and goat's milk
Milk Treatment Non-pasteurized
Fat Content Minimum 43% in dry weight
Moisture Content Maximum 38%
Rind Hard but relatively thin
Texture Buttery and smooth
Flavor Intense, spicy, pleasant, and bittersweet
Aroma Rich
Colors Whitish to yellowish
Forms Whole wheels
Age At least three months