Valserena is one of the last true farmstead producers of Parmigiano Reggiano, and its history is deeply intertwined with the Serra family in the Italian province of Parma. For over six generations, since 1879, the family has been dedicated to crafting this iconic cheese using a unique and traditional approach.
The heart of Valserena's identity lies in its exclusive use of milk from the rare Bruna Italiana, or "brown cow," an ancient breed known for producing a smaller quantity of milk that is exceptionally rich in protein and butterfat. This distinctive milk gives their Parmigiano Reggiano a richer, creamier flavor with a unique sweetness compared to cheeses made from more common breeds.
As a farmstead producer, Valserena controls every step of the process on their 430-hectare estate—from cultivating the feed for their cows and raising the herd, to crafting and aging the cheese in their own dairy. This "full-circle" approach ensures unparalleled quality and authenticity, making each wheel a genuine expression of its terroir.