Specialty Cheeses

It’s no mystery as to why this cheese took 1st Place in its goat’s milk category at the American Cheese Society competition in 2014. Sofia is hand-ladled into brick-shaped molds. The cheese is marbled with ash, adding to its aesthetic qualities while paying homage to the classic cheesemaking technique of separating and protecting morning and evening milkings. The texture is fine and silky in the mouth, becoming more dense and velvety with age. It ripens under a light, wrinkly geotrichum candidum rind, and has a delicate flavor reminiscent of sweet cream. You might notice more of a salty, tangy finish as it lingers on your tongue.

Sofia pairs well with sparkling wines. I prefer a Blanc de Blanc with this cheese, but a crisp Cava or Prosecco would work well, too. When the cheese has a bit more age, try Sofia with a Moscato d’Asti or Sauternes. Serve alongside fresh summer fruits drizzled with honey for a decadent, but simple dessert course.