Graviera Kritis is a popular cheese from the island of Crete, possessing a PDO status. Made primarily from sheep's milk with some goat's milk, it has a sweet, nutty flavor that becomes more pronounced with age. The texture is semi-hard, making it suitable for a variety of culinary uses, from grating to slicing.
What is Graviera Kritis Cheese?
Graviera Kritis, awarded PDO status in 1996, is a hard cheese from Crete, predominantly made from sheep's milk or a blend with up to 20% goat's milk. It is crafted by small-scale cheesemakers across the island using milk from free-ranging animals grazing on diverse terrains. Aged for a minimum of three months, Graviera Kritis develops a mellow, nutty, slightly sweet flavor when young, which becomes sharper and slightly peppery as it matures.
This cheese is a staple in Greek cuisine and is available widely across Greece and abroad. It is sold from wheels in local markets to pre-packaged slices in international stores. The unique taste and quality of Graviera Kritis are influenced by the rich local flora consumed by the grazing animals, contributing to its distinctiveness.
Key Facts About Graviera Kritis Cheese
Country of Origin | Greece |
Specific Origin | Island of Crete |
Certification | PDO (1996) |
Milk Type | Sheep's milk, Goat's milk (up to 20%) |
Milk Treatment | Raw |
Rind | Natural rind |
Texture | Hard |
Flavor | Nutty, Sweet |
Forms | Wheels, Wedges |
Age | At least 3 months |
Rennet Type | Animal |