Roncal
First Spanish cheese to receive PDO status. Traditional Pyrenean shepherds' cheese from Roncal Valley.
Aging Time
4 months – 1 year
Typical Weight
2.5 kg
- Style
- Hard
- Milk
- Sheep
- Origin
- Spain · Navarre (Roncal Valley)
- Ripening
- ≥ 4 months
Tasting Board
Texture
Firm, compact, slightly crumbly
Flavor
Nutty, slightly spicy, intense, piquant when aged
Aroma
Strong, slightly smoky, ovine
History & Origins
Made by transhumant shepherds for centuries in the Pyrenees.
Cultural Significance
Symbol of Navarrese pastoral tradition. First Spanish PDO cheese (1981).
PDO — What the Designation Requires
EU PDO since 1981 (first Spanish cheese PDO). Made in Roncal Valley, Navarre, from Latxa and Rasa sheep milk. Minimum aging: 4 months. Traditional shepherds' cheese.
Pairing & Serving
What to Pair It With
Pairs with quince paste, walnuts, honey, crusty bread, dried fruit.
How to Serve It
Table cheese, excellent with membrillo.
Nutrition (per 100g)
| Calories | kcal |
| Protein | g |
| Total Fat | g |
| Saturated Fat | g |
| Sodium | mg |
| Calcium | mg |
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