When it comes to different kinds of cheeses , most individuals are familiar with the artificial cheeses offered at grocery stores or typically used to prepare meals at quick-service establishments. While processed cheese complements a dish's taste, it doesn’t replicate the same flavors as natural cheese due to the differences in the production process. Offering luxury cheese at your restaurant will allow you to expand the palates of some guests while pleasing the sophisticated taste buds of others. In this comprehensive guide, we provide you with details on why premium cheese is so expensive and the 5 most luxurious cheeses in the world.
Natural Cheese vs. Processed Cheese
Cheese comes in two primary categories: natural and processed. Each type has distinct characteristics in terms of shape, size, flavor, and production methods. Below, you will find the key differences and characteristics.
Production Methods
Natural Cheese: Made from pasteurized or raw milk without chemicals or preservatives.
Processed Cheese: Made from melted natural cheese, emulsifiers, preservatives, and artificial ingredients.
Ingredients
Natural Cheese: Pure milk, no additives.
Processed Cheese: Saturated vegetable oil, salt, food colorings, sugar, and other ingredients.
Packaging
Natural Cheese: Available in loaf or wheel form.
Processed Cheese: Typically wrapped in plastic or sold in cans.
Flavor & Appearance
Natural Cheese: Unique, varied flavors and appearances.
P rocessed Cheese: Uniform flavor and appearance due to additives.
Why Is Cheese Expensive?
Several factors can influence the cost of cheese:
Milk Prices
Natural cheeses are made from milk, a commodity with fluctuating prices.
Luxury cheeses often come from animals that are difficult to raise (e.g., yaks and water buffalos).
Production Process
Transforming milk into cheese is complex and time-consuming.
Natural cheesemakers produce small batches without heavy machinery, focusing on quality.
Processed cheese manufacturers use machinery to speed up production and reduce costs.
Aging
Luxury cheeses are aged to develop unique flavors and achieve a balance of sweet, salty, sour, bitter, and umami.
The 5 Most Expensive Cheeses In The World
Luxury cheese is a complex delicacy around the globe. Each natural cheese features a distinct rind, pate, and flavor that makes them irresistible while providing individuals’ palates with a new experience. Below is a list of the 5 most expensive types of cheeses and details on what makes each luxury cheese unique.
5. Caciocavallo Podolico
Caciocavallo Podolico is an Italian cheese made from the milk of the rare Podolica cattle, which graze on aromatic herbs and grasses in the southern regions of Italy. This cheese is shaped like a teardrop and is often aged for several years to develop its full flavor.
Milk Source: Podolica cattle milk
Flavor Profile: Rich, nutty, and slightly spicy with a hint of sweetness
Texture: Firm and smooth
Price Of Caciocavallo Podolico
Caciocavallo Podolico typically costs around $50 to $150 per kilogram ($23 to $68 per pound), depending on its age and quality.
Traditional Production
The traditional methods used to produce Caciocavallo Podolico, combined with the unique diet of the Podolica cattle, give this cheese its distinctive and highly prized flavor.
4. White Stilton Gold
White Stilton Gold is a luxurious version of the traditional White Stilton cheese, infused with edible gold flakes. This cheese is produced in the UK and is known for its mild flavor and creamy texture, elevated by the addition of gold.
Milk Source: Cow milk
Flavor Profile: Mild, creamy, and slightly tangy with a hint of sweetness
Texture: Soft and crumbly
Price Of White Stilton Gold
White Stilton Gold can cost up to $450 per kilogram ($205 per pound), primarily due to the inclusion of edible gold flakes.
The Luxury Factor
The inclusion of edible gold flakes not only makes White Stilton Gold visually stunning but also adds an extra layer of opulence, making it a perfect centerpiece for a luxury cheese board.
3. Époisses De Bourgogne
Époisses de Bourgogne is a French cow's milk cheese that is washed with Marc de Bourgogne, a brandy made from the remnants of pressed grapes. This washing process imparts a distinctive orange rind and a pungent aroma that can be quite intense.
Milk Source: Cow milk
Flavor Profile: Rich, salty, and slightly sweet with a pronounced aroma
Texture: Soft and creamy
Price Of Époisses De Bourgogne
Époisses de Bourgogne typically costs between $30 and $60 per kilogram ($14 to $27 per pound).
Unique Attributes
Époisses is often referred to as one of the most pungent cheeses in the world. Its strong smell and complex flavor make it a favorite among those who appreciate robust and aromatic cheeses.
2. Cabrales
Cabrales is a traditional Spanish blue cheese made from unpasteurized cow's, goat's, and sheep's milk. It is aged in natural limestone caves in the Asturias region, which gives it a unique and robust flavor. Cabrales is often regarded as one of the strongest blue cheeses in the world.
Milk Source: Cow, goat, and sheep milk blend
Flavor Profile: Sharp, tangy, and intense with a slightly spicy finish
Texture: Creamy yet crumbly
Price Of Cabrales Cheese
The price of Cabrales cheese varies depending on its age and quality but generally ranges from $50 to $100 per kilogram ($23 to $45 per pound).
The Aging Process
The natural cave aging process allows Cabrales to develop its signature blue veins and strong flavor. The high humidity and cool temperatures in the caves create the perfect environment for the cheese to mature.
1. Pule Cheese
Pule cheese, also known as the world’s most expensive cheese, is made from the milk of Balkan donkeys from Serbia. It takes approximately 25 liters of donkey milk to produce just one kilogram of Pule cheese, contributing to its high price tag. This cheese is renowned for its crumbly texture and rich, complex flavor, which is slightly tangy and earthy.
Milk Source: Balkan donkey milk
Flavor Profile: Tangy, earthy, and slightly sweet
Texture: Crumbly and firm
Price Of Pule Cheese
Pule cheese is considered the most expensive cheese in the world, with prices reaching up to $1,300 per kilogram ($590 per pound).
Why Pule Cheese Stands Out
Pule cheese is not only rare but also considered a delicacy due to its unique production process and the care taken in its creation. Its distinctive flavor and rarity make it a must-try for any cheese aficionado looking to explore the most luxurious cheeses available.
Cheese Etiquette
Not everyone is aware of food etiquette revolving around cheese. Knowing the rules and guidelines for eating cheese can improve your overall cheese dining experience. Below are a few of cheese rules to follow:
Serve The Right Amount Of Cheese
Serving the right amount of cheese is essential to avoid waste and keep your platter visually appealing. Including a variety of cheeses ensures that all guests find something they enjoy. Here are some key tips:
Variety Is Key: Include different types of cheeses to cater to various taste preferences.
Serve Odd Numbers: Arrange cheeses in odd numbers (three, five, or seven) for a visually appealing platter.
Avoid Overloading: Do not serve more cheese than you have guests to prevent waste and ensure a neat presentation.
Properly Order Your Cheese
Ordering your cheese correctly allows guests to fully appreciate the nuances of each type. Starting with milder cheeses and moving to stronger ones ensures a balanced tasting experience. Follow these guidelines:
Mild To Strong: Arrange cheeses from mildest to strongest to allow guests to appreciate the flavors sequentially.
Seek Expert Advice: Consult with a cheesemonger if you're unsure about the order of your cheeses.
Serve Cheese At The Right Temperature
Serving cheese at the right temperature is crucial for flavor and texture. Cheese that is too cold loses its complexity and appeal. To maximize enjoyment, follow these tips:
Remove From Fridge: Take the cheese out of the fridge 30 minutes to two hours before serving.
Avoid Cold Cheese: Cheese kept below 50°F becomes stiff, dry, and loses flavor.
Room Temperature: Letting cheese reach room temperature enhances its flavor, aroma, and texture.
Pick The Correct Drink Pairing
Pairing cheese with the right drink can elevate the tasting experience. The right combination can enhance both the cheese and the beverage, creating a harmonious balance of flavors. Consider these points:
Match Flavors: Balance the flavors of the cheese and drink.
Red Wines: Pair with hard and semi-hard cheeses like cheddar or Gouda.
White Wines: Pair with soft cheeses such as brie or goat’s milk feta for a harmonious taste experience.
Creating The Perfect Luxury Cheese Board
To showcase these exquisite cheeses, consider creating a luxury cheese board that highlights their unique characteristics. Here are some tips for assembling an impressive display:
Selecting Accompaniments
Choosing the right accompaniments can enhance the flavors and textures of luxurious cheeses, creating a well-rounded and satisfying tasting experience. Here are some ideal pairings to consider when assembling your cheese board:
Fruits: Fresh figs, grapes, and pears complement the flavors of luxury cheeses.
Nuts: Almonds, walnuts, and hazelnuts add a crunchy texture and pair well with creamy cheeses.
Honey And Jams: A drizzle of honey or a dollop of fig jam can enhance the sweetness of certain cheeses.
Charcuterie: High-quality salami and prosciutto provide a savory contrast.
Using The Right Tools
Utilizing the appropriate tools is essential for creating an elegant and efficient cheese presentation. Each tool serves a specific purpose, enhancing both the preparation and enjoyment of your luxury cheese board or bouquet. Consider incorporating these tools:
Cheese Knives: Using a proper cheese knife set ensures clean cuts and enhances the presentation.
Cheese Picks: Stylish picks are perfect for serving individual portions.
Cheese Graters: A fine cheese grater can be used to add a delicate sprinkle of cheese to dishes.
Serving Boards: A beautifully crafted serving board can elevate the overall aesthetic of your cheese presentation.
Spice Shakers: Consider using spice shakers to add a touch of freshly ground pepper or other spices to complement the cheese.
Arranging The Cheese Board
The arrangement of your cheese board is crucial to ensuring an enjoyable and visually appealing experience for many, or even just one to enjoy. Thoughtful placement and preparation can highlight the unique qualities of each cheese. Here are some tips to consider:
Spacing: Allow enough space between different cheeses to prevent their flavors from mingling.
Labeling: Use small labels to identify each cheese, helping guests navigate their tasting experience.
Temperature: Serve the cheeses at room temperature to bring out their full flavors.
Elevate Your Cheese Experience
Exploring the world of luxurious cheeses can be a delightful journey for any food enthusiast. From the robust and intense Cabrales to the opulent White Stilton Gold, these cheeses offer a taste experience like no other. By incorporating these exquisite cheeses into your culinary repertoire, you can elevate your dishes and create memorable dining experiences.
Explore our selection of premium cheese boards, knives, picks, graters, and shakers to create the perfect luxury cheese board. Whether you’re hosting a gourmet dinner or looking to impress your guests, our high-quality tools will help you showcase the world’s best cheeses with style and elegance. Browse through our catalog here.
