Garrotxa Cheese

Pencil Icon

Garrotxa is a traditional Catalan goat cheese from the Garrotxa area in northeastern Spain. It has a firm texture and a creamy, nutty flavor with a hint of earthiness. The cheese features a distinctive grey or blue mold on its rind, which helps to protect and enhance its flavor during the aging process, which typically lasts for two to three months.

What is Garrotxa Cheese?

Garrotxa is a traditional Catalan goat cheese. It was revitalized by a collective of young cheesemakers known as "neorurals" who settled in Catalonia's Garrotxa region during the post-Franco creative renaissance. Previously suppressed by Franco's large production quotas, these artisan producers collaborated with local dairy artisans to produce a cheese that has gained international recognition. Celebrated for its creamy texture and unique flavor profile influenced by the area's diverse flora, Garrotxa is a testament to the revival of traditional cheesemaking.

The production of Garrotxa involves pasteurizing goat’s milk and aging the cheese from four weeks to three months. It develops a distinctive blue-gray rind thanks to Penicillium glaucum mold, which thrives in the humid conditions of northeastern Catalonia. This mold imparts a gentle sweetness to the cheese, softening its natural acidity and adding depth to its flavor. Each wheel, whether smaller or larger, represents a harmonious blend of traditional skills and the rich biodiversity of the Girona province.

Modern Garrotxa is a testament to the region's gastronomic heritage and the entrepreneurial spirit of individuals like Enric Canut, who spearheaded the cheese's revival. Enjoyed for its mild, buttery, and slightly tangy flavors with notes of citrus and hazelnuts, Garrotxa is often paired with rustic bread and fruits or used in culinary recipes that highlight its rich qualities. Its success as a revived traditional food product showcases the power of artisan craftsmanship and community collaboration, securing its place in both local markets and the global stage.

Key Facts About Garrotxa Cheese

Country of Origin Spain
Specific Origin Catalonia
Milk Type goat's milk
Milk Treatment pasteurized
Rind Moldy
Texture Semisoft
Flavor Mild
Aroma earthy, woody
Colors Blue-gray
Forms Two sizes of small wheels
Age Four weeks to three months