Ossau-Iraty Cheese


Ossau-Iraty Cheese

Quick Facts

  • Country of Origin: France (Basque region)
  • Milk Type: Sheep's milk
  • Texture: Semi-hard
  • Fat Content: Around 30%
  • Color: Golden to dark rind, ivory interior
  • Rind: Natural or waxed
  • Aging: 3 to 12 months

About Ossau-Iraty Cheese

Ossau-Iraty is a traditional Basque sheep's milk cheese made in the Pyrenees mountains. It is one of France's oldest cheeses, with a smooth, buttery texture and a gentle, slightly nutty flavour that deepens with age. It holds AOP status and is still made by small farmers using traditional methods.

Pairings

Try with black cherry jam, a classic Basque pairing, and crusty bread. Pairs beautifully with Jurancon wine or a light red.

Fun fact: Shepherds in the Pyrenees have been making Ossau-Iraty for at least 4,000 years.