Aged for set number of months
rind is stamped for authenticity
Parmigiano Reggiano
- nuttier flavour
- stronger
- similar origins to Grana Padano
- Parmigiano Reggiano’s flavours develop as it ages
- The minimum duration for the maturation of the cheese is 12 months, at which point it has a delicate flavour with smooth notes of yoghurt and fresh fruit and a soft texture. Over time it builds greater depth – giving off nuttier tones. Ultimately, with around 30-36 months of maturation, Parmigiano Reggiano takes on a slightly spicy flavour, which melts away as it crumbles on the palate.
- “Parmesan” is the name given to domestic cheeses that aim to mimic Parmigiano-Reggiano, but a simple taste test should disabuse you of the notion that parmesan is an acceptable substitute for Parmigiano-Reggiano in high caliber cheese plates or dishes.
Grana Padano
- Not as crumbly as parmesan
- while still granular in texture, is slightly creamier and less crumbly than Parmigiano-Reggiano.
- Grana Padano is actually the best-selling PDO cheese in the world
- It is often less expensive than Parmigiano-Reggiano, which is an important consideration for a discerning chef.
- Not as aged as parmesan
- from the area commonly known as ‘Padania’ in Northern Italy
- adding salt and renin to the milk, and cooking over a low heat for a long time, they came up with a delectable cheese that only improved with age.