The Ewe-phoric World of Sheep's Milk Cheese

If you're an avid cheese eater, you've probably enjoyed more Sheep's milk cheese than you realize. Cheese made from Sheep's milk can be chameleons in the realm of formage - this is because they don’t have a telltale color like the bright white of goat’s milk, and neither do they have a distinct tang.

Known for its creamy consistency and complex taste, sheep’s milk has a longer history in cheesemaking than does cow’s milk. Sheep are believed to have been milked for human consumption for thousands of years. This type of cheese is often enjoyed for its complex flavors, which can range from mild and sweet to sharp and tangy, depending on the aging process and the specific variety.

Benefits of Sheep's milk cheese

Sheep's milk cheese stands out for several reasons:

• Digestibility: Many people find sheep's milk easier to digest due to its lower lactose content and different protein structure.
• Nutrient-Rich: Packed with essential nutrients, including protein, calcium, and vitamins A, B, and E.
• Rich Flavor: Higher fat content in sheep's milk results in a creamier texture and a more robust flavor profile compared to cow's and goat's milk cheeses.

Popular Types of Sheep's Milk Cheese

1. Manchego: A Spanish favorite, Manchego ranges from mild and creamy to nutty and firm, depending on its aging process. Enjoy it with a drizzle of honey or alongside cured meats.
2. Pecorino: This Italian classic is hard, salty, and perfect for grating over pasta or salads. Its bold flavor also makes it a great addition to cheese boards. Our favorite is Pecorino Toscano Stagionato DOP
3. Ossau Iraty: A French standout from the Basque region, it has a has a nutty, slightly sweet flavor with notes of herbs and grass with a firm, smooth texture.
4. Halloumi: Known for its high melting point, halloumi can be grilled or fried until crispy on the outside and soft on the inside. Learn more about grilling cheeses here!

How to Enjoy Sheep's Milk Cheese

Complement the rich flavors of sheep's milk cheese with fresh fruits like apples, pears, and figs. Nuts, honey, and artisanal breads also make excellent companions.

As for wine pairings, the range of flavors of Sheep's milks cheese offers endless possibilities. You can pair the bold Pecorino with a robust red wine, Manchego with a full-bodied white or light red, and Roquefort with a sweet dessert wine like Sauternes.

As always, we recommend storing your cheese in the refrigerator wrapped in wax paper or cheese paper. Avoid plastic wrap, as it can trap moisture and lead to spoilage.

Discover Other Sheep's Milk Cheeses

At Cured and Cultivated, we offer a wide assortment of Sheep's milk cheeses. Here are some of our bestsellers and personal favorites:

1. Queso Trufado: A Spanish variety infused with black truffle that features a creamy, rich texture and an earthy, aromatic flavor.
2. My Lamb-Borghini: From the Netherlands, this cleverly named cheese is has a firm, smooth texture with a nutty flavor and hints of caramel. 
3. Scorpio Shooting Star: Created by a small batch producer, Central Coast Creamery in California, Scorpio has a soft washed rind with a strong aroma but a mellow, creamy, melt in your mouth and linger flavor. Similar to brie.
4. Sardo Fiore: A Sardinian cheese similar to Pecorino but more forceful. Slightly salty flavor, salty tang and a hint of fruit; the finish is long, with a caramel sweetness.

Final Thoughts

Sheep's milk cheese offers a delightful journey through rich, complex flavors that can elevate any meal or cheese board. Whether you're savoring the creamy goodness of Manchego or the googey goodness of Halloumi, these cheeses provide a unique experience that is both delicious and nutritious.