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Idiazabal Cheese
About Idiazabal Cheese
Idiazabal is a traditional Spanish cheese from the Basque Country, made from raw sheep's milk and often smoked over beechwood, giving it a distinctive, robust flavor. It has a slightly dry, but buttery texture, with a smoky, nutty taste. Idiazabal is often enjoyed on its own or used in cooking.
Key Facts
| Country of Origin | Spain |
| Specific Origin | Basque country, Navarre |
| Protection | PDO (1996), PDO (1987) |
| Milk Type | Sheep |
| Milk Treatment | Raw |
| Rind | Hard, smooth |
| Texture | Semi-Hard |
| Flavor | Intense, slightly piquant |
| Aroma | Lactic, roasted, animal, nutty, vegetable |
| Colors | Creamy yellow to deep brown (smoked) |
| Forms | Cylindrical |
| Age | 60 days |
| Rennet Type | Traditional lamb rennet |
What is Idiazabal Cheese?
Idiazabal cheese is a traditional Basque cheese from northern Spain. Named after the village of Idiazabal and protected by a Protected Designation of Origin (PDO) since 1987, it is a widely produced PDO ewe's milk cheese in Spain, with about 1,500 tons annually. It is crafted exclusively from the raw milk of Latxa sheep, a breed adapted to the region's harsh conditions, with nearly all their milk destined for cheesemaking.
Historically, the cheese was produced in mountain pastures during the summer, a tradition that added value to the local economy and helped sustain rural communities. Although modern production mostly occurs in valley dairies from November to July, some cheeses still carry a "mountain" label, promoting traditional methods combined with high sanitary standards. The cheese itself is enzymatic-coagulated, pressed, and uncooked, aged for at least sixty days, and can be smoked or unsmoked.
Idiazabal's intense aroma and slightly piquant taste come from traditional lamb rennet paste, which is crucial to its production. Recognized internationally for its quality, the cheese has won numerous awards, including a Gold Medal from the International Academy of Gastronomy. The ultimate way to experience Idiazabalâs unique qualities is to visit the Basque country, tasting it locally alongside traditional pairings like red wine or cider in a celebration of its rich cultural heritage.
Alternative Spellings of Idiazabal
IdiazĂĄbal
