Ossau Iraty

Ossau Iraty production is claimed to be the oldest surviving tradition in the world, with records dating back more than 4000 years.  AOC controls were introduced in 1980 to protect its future production.

Semi-hard in texture, with a brine-rubbed rind.  A firm yet supple cheese, in that the hard rind holds within a pate a complexity of tastes that tingle on the palate.  With a little age the pate becomes flakier and more brittle, along with the taste, that becomes pronounced and nutty.  Sweet fruit, nuts and roasted lamb flavours.