Description
When you open a wheel of Gruyère AOP Kaltbach, you are enveloped by an intense and fruity aroma, which heralds the unique and complex taste of this cheese. On the palate, it presents a harmonious balance between sweetness and a slight saltiness, with hints reminiscent of hazelnut and butter. Its texture is both tender and compact, with a crunchiness given by the salt crystallizations that are released with every bite, offering a truly sublime tasting experience. The wheels of Gruyère Kaltbach AOP have a hard, brownish rind, characterized by a rough surface due to the treatment with morgia. The shape is round, with a diameter ranging between 55 and 65 cm and a weight that can reach 40 kg. The paste is uniformly ivory yellow and generally has a fine and moist consistency, sometimes characterized by eyes of varying diameter, although their presence is not essential. Gruyère has a long tradition in the Swiss region, where it has been produced for centuries. Originating from the Gruyère valley, this cheese enjoys the Protected Designation of Origin (AOP) which guarantees its authenticity and quality. Production takes place in the Kaltbach aging cellars, located in a splendid mountainous region, which gives the cheese its peculiar taste characteristics thanks to the microclimate and the pure mountain air.Characteristics of the Milk and Type of AnimalsGruyère AOP Kaltbach is made exclusively with milk from Holstein and Simmental cows, which graze freely in the green Swiss meadows or are fed with fresh and nutritious fodder from the Alpine pastures. These cows produce rich and creamy milk with a fat content in the dry matter between 49% and 53%, essential for creating a high-quality cheese. The milk used is not filtered in ways that could alter its properties, thus preserving its nutritional characteristics. Pairings: Gruyère AOP Kaltbach is incredibly versatile and can be paired with a variety of foods and drinks. Excellent to enjoy on its own, it pairs perfectly with honey, nuts, and white chocolate. It is delicious when grated over soups like the traditional French onion soup or melted in a sandwich with ham and sweet jam. For an ideal pairing, we recommend red wines such as Cabernet Franc or Bourgogne, or even a single-malt Scotch whisky that enhances the cheese's aromatic notes. Storage: store in the refrigerator Processing: The production of Gruyère AOP Kaltbach is an art that combines tradition and knowledge. After milking, the milk is heated and inoculated with specific bacterial cultures. The curd is then worked by hand, followed by careful pressing. After salting, the cheese is transferred to the Kaltbach caves, where it is aged for a period of at least 12 months, during which it is regularly checked by the "Cavemasters" to ensure it reaches the desired aromatic profile. This process allows the formation of the characteristic rind and the development of complex flavors. Other: Nutritional information per 100 grams fat (g) 32 Saturated fat (g) 21.5 Calcium (mg) 823 Calories (kcal) 396 Kilojoules (KJ) 1645 Carbohydrates (g) 1 Proteins (g) 24 Sodium (mg) 848