One of the most fascinating and delicious cheese varieties that incorporates alcohol is Spain's renowned Drunken Goat cheese. This exceptional cheese, also known as Cabra or Murcia al Vino, is a true gem in the world of cheese making. But it's not just Spain that has mastered the art of creating alcoholic cheeses; Italy also boasts a rich tradition of producing these unique delicacies, known as “ubriaco” or drunk cheese.
Drunken Goat cheese is made from the pasteurized milk of Murciana goats, which are native to the Murcia region of Spain. What sets this cheese apart is its distinctive wine-washed rind. After the cheese is formed and aged for a short period, it is immersed in red wine for several days or even weeks. This extended bath in wine infuses the cheese with the rich flavors and aromas of the wine, giving it a unique and vibrant character.
The wine used to wash the cheese can vary, but it is typically a full-bodied red wine with robust flavors. The specific wine used can greatly influence the final taste of the cheese, adding subtle nuances and complexities. Some producers even use local wines, further showcasing the regional terroir and creating a true taste of the land.
During the wine-washing process, the cheese absorbs the alcohol from the wine, resulting in a cheese that carries a hint of the wine's alcoholic properties. While the actual alcohol content in the cheese is quite minimal, it imparts a delightful tang and depth of flavor. The wine also acts as a natural preservative, extending the shelf life of the cheese and allowing it to age gracefully.
Italy, known for its diverse and rich cheese-making heritage, has its own version of drunk cheese called “ubriaco.” This traditional method involves submerging wheels of cheese, typically made from cow's milk, in a variety of alcoholic beverages such as wine, grappa, or even beer. The length of time the cheese spends in contact with the alcohol can range from a few days to several months, depending on the desired intensity of flavor.
The result is a cheese that carries the distinct characteristics of the chosen alcohol, infusing it with unique flavors and aromas. The aging process further develops the cheese, creating a complex and robust taste profile that wine and beer enthusiasts can appreciate. The combination of the cheese's natural flavors and the added alcohol creates a harmonious and unforgettable experience for the taste buds.
Personal experiences with these alcoholic cheeses can be truly memorable. I recall a visit to a small family-owned cheese shop in Spain, where I had the pleasure of tasting a variety of Drunken Goat cheeses. Each cheese had been washed in a different type of red wine, showcasing the incredible range of flavors that can be achieved. From bold and fruity to earthy and tannic, the cheeses offered a delightful journey through the diverse world of Spanish wines.
Similarly, during my travels in Italy, I had the opportunity to sample an array of ubriaco cheeses. One particular cheese, soaked in a local red wine, stood out with its robust and slightly tangy flavor. Paired with a glass of the same wine, it was a match made in heaven, as the cheese and wine enhanced each other's characteristics, creating a truly harmonious gastronomic experience.
Cheeses with alcohol, such as Spain's Drunken Goat and Italy's ubriaco, offer a unique and captivating taste experience. The process of washing the cheese with alcohol not only imparts distinctive flavors but also adds depth and complexity. These cheeses are a testament to the creativity and innovation of cheese makers, who continue to push the boundaries and create exceptional products that delight cheese lovers around the world.