Introduction
Sheep cheese, also known as pecorino, is a popular type of cheese made from sheep’s milk. It is widely consumed around the world and comes in various varieties depending on the region where it is produced. In this report, we will explore the top 10 most popular sheep cheese varieties by region, highlighting their unique characteristics and popularity among consumers.
1. Roquefort (France)
History and Production
Roquefort is a famous blue cheese made from sheep’s milk in the south of France. It has a creamy texture and a tangy flavor due to the presence of Penicillium roqueforti mold. Roquefort has been produced for centuries and is protected by the Appellation d’Origine Contrôlée (AOC) designation, which ensures its authenticity and quality.
Popularity and Market Share
Roquefort is one of the most popular sheep cheese varieties globally, with a significant market share in the gourmet cheese segment. It is exported to various countries and is highly prized for its unique taste and texture. The global market for Roquefort cheese is estimated to be worth millions of dollars annually.
2. Manchego (Spain)
History and Production
Manchego is a Spanish sheep cheese made from the milk of Manchega sheep. It has a firm texture and a buttery flavor with nutty undertones. Manchego is aged for different periods, resulting in variations in taste and texture. It is a staple in Spanish cuisine and is often served with wine and cured meats.
Popularity and Market Share
Manchego is a popular sheep cheese variety both in Spain and internationally. It has a significant market share in the cheese industry, with exports to various countries around the world. The global market for Manchego cheese is valued at millions of dollars annually, making it a profitable product for Spanish cheese producers.
3. Pecorino Romano (Italy)
History and Production
Pecorino Romano is an Italian sheep cheese with a long history dating back to ancient Rome. It is made from the milk of sheep raised in the Lazio region of Italy. Pecorino Romano has a sharp and salty flavor, making it a popular choice for grating over pasta dishes.
Popularity and Market Share
Pecorino Romano is a widely consumed cheese in Italy and is exported to various countries around the world. It has a significant market share in the cheese industry, with a strong demand from consumers who appreciate its traditional flavor profile. The global market for Pecorino Romano cheese is estimated to be worth millions of dollars annually.
4. Feta (Greece)
History and Production
Feta is a Greek sheep cheese with a crumbly texture and a tangy flavor. It is made from a mixture of sheep’s milk and goat’s milk and is aged in brine to develop its characteristic taste. Feta is a versatile cheese used in salads, pastries, and other Mediterranean dishes.
Popularity and Market Share
Feta is a popular cheese both in Greece and internationally, with a significant market share in the dairy industry. It is exported to various countries around the world and is a staple in Mediterranean cuisine. The global market for Feta cheese is valued at millions of dollars annually, making it a profitable product for Greek cheese producers.
5. Pecorino Sardo (Italy)
History and Production
Pecorino Sardo is an Italian sheep cheese made from the milk of Sardinian sheep. It has a firm texture and a rich, nutty flavor with hints of caramel. Pecorino Sardo is aged for different periods, resulting in variations in taste and texture. It is a popular cheese in Italy and is often paired with Sardinian wines.
Popularity and Market Share
Pecorino Sardo is a well-known cheese in Italy and is exported to various countries around the world. It has a significant market share in the cheese industry, with a strong demand from consumers who appreciate its unique flavor profile. The global market for Pecorino Sardo cheese is estimated to be worth millions of dollars annually.
6. Pecorino Toscano (Italy)
History and Production
Pecorino Toscano is an Italian sheep cheese made from the milk of Tuscan sheep. It has a semi-firm texture and a mild, sweet flavor with floral notes. Pecorino Toscano is aged for different periods, resulting in variations in taste and texture. It is a popular cheese in Italy and is often served with honey or fruit.
Popularity and Market Share
Pecorino Toscano is a well-loved cheese in Italy and is exported to various countries around the world. It has a significant market share in the cheese industry, with a strong demand from consumers who appreciate its delicate flavor profile. The global market for Pecorino Toscano cheese is valued at millions of dollars annually.
7. Ossau-Iraty (France)
History and Production
Ossau-Iraty is a French sheep cheese made in the Pyrenees region. It has a creamy texture and a nutty flavor with floral undertones. Ossau-Iraty is aged for different periods, resulting in variations in taste and texture. It is a popular cheese in France and is often paired with local wines.
Popularity and Market Share
Ossau-Iraty is a renowned cheese in France and is exported to various countries around the world. It has a significant market share in the gourmet cheese segment, with a strong demand from consumers who appreciate its complex flavor profile. The global market for Ossau-Iraty cheese is estimated to be worth millions of dollars annually.
8. Pecorino Crotonese (Italy)
History and Production
Pecorino Crotonese is an Italian sheep cheese made from the milk of sheep raised in Calabria. It has a semi-firm texture and a sharp, tangy flavor. Pecorino Crotonese is aged for different periods, resulting in variations in taste and texture. It is a popular cheese in Italy and is often grated over pasta dishes.
Popularity and Market Share
Pecorino Crotonese is a well-established cheese in Italy and is exported to various countries around the world. It has a significant market share in the cheese industry, with a strong demand from consumers who appreciate its bold flavor profile. The global market for Pecorino Crotonese cheese is valued at millions of dollars annually.
9. Brebis (France)
History and Production
Brebis is a French sheep cheese made from the milk of Basque sheep. It has a creamy texture and a mild, slightly sweet flavor. Brebis is aged for different periods, resulting in variations in taste and texture. It is a popular cheese in France and is often enjoyed with crusty bread and fruits.
Popularity and Market Share
Brebis is a beloved cheese in France and is exported to various countries around the world. It has a significant market share in the gourmet cheese segment, with a strong demand from consumers who appreciate its delicate flavor profile. The global market for Brebis cheese is estimated to be worth millions of dollars annually.
10. Zamorano (Spain)
History and Production
Zamorano is a Spanish sheep cheese made from the milk of Churra sheep. It has a firm texture and a rich, nutty flavor with hints of caramel. Zamorano is aged for different periods, resulting in variations in taste and texture. It is a popular cheese in Spain and is often served with quince paste.
Popularity and Market Share
Zamorano is a well-known cheese in Spain and is exported to various countries around the world. It has a significant market share in the cheese industry, with a strong demand from consumers who appreciate its robust flavor profile. The global market for Zamorano cheese is valued at millions of dollars annually.
In conclusion, sheep cheese varieties are popular around the world, with each region producing unique and delicious cheeses that cater to different tastes and preferences. These top 10 sheep cheese varieties by region showcase the diversity and richness of the cheese industry, highlighting the craftsmanship and expertise of cheese producers in France, Italy, and Spain. Consumers can enjoy these cheeses in various dishes and pairings, making them a staple in gourmet cuisine.
